London’s Afrobeat collective Kokoroko release their highly-anticipated full-length ‘Could We Be More’

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London’s Afrobeat collective Kokoroko release their highly-anticipated full-length ‘Could We Be More’

Following the release of both their breakthrough 2019 self-titled debut EP, and last year’s standout double A-side 12″ single Baba Ayoola / Carry Me Home, the London 8-piece collective Kokoroko, led by trumpeter and vocalist Sheila Maurice-Grey, returns with their highly-anticipated full length album on Gilles Peterson’s Brownswood Recordings, titled Could We Be More.

This incredible 15-track recording builds off the foundation of the group’s two previous releases, blending together West-African and Caribbean influences with Afrobeat, highlife, jazz, hypnotic cosmic textures, and soulful vocals and chants. The album has an overall joyful uplifting spiritual feel while instilling a lot of dancefloor-like energy throughout.

Joining Maurice-Grey on this session includes some of London’s finest musicians, all of who come from different backgrounds, including Cassie Kinoshi (alto saxophone, vocals), Richie Seivwright (trombone, vocals), Tobi Adenaike-Johnson (guitar), Yohan Kebede (synths, keyboards), Duane Atherley (bass, synths, keyboards), Onome Edgeworth (percussion), and Ayo Salawu (drums).

Ever since the group was featured on the 2018 We Out Here compilation with their meditative now-classic “Abusey Junction”, the anticipation of a full-length album has only grown over time, and with Could We Be More, the collective has not only gone above and beyond any expectations that might have existed and released one of the best albums of 2022. Expect this record to make it’s way into most year-end lists.

Highly recommended!