Nubiyan Twist – Find Your Flame, E.U. White Vinyl LP
Nubiyan Twist – Find Your Flame, E.U. White Vinyl LP
Nine-piece powerhouse Nubiyan Twist embark on a fresh musical odyssey with their vibrant fourth album 'Find Your Flame’. Over 12 tracks the band seamlessly weave together global grooves, soul and jazz; expertly intertwined with electronic elements, horn-led melodies and spontaneous improvisation. The album also marks a significant evolution for the group as they welcome Sheffield-based vocalist Aziza Jaye to the forefront, adding a fresh dimension of Patois and RnB to their sound.
Bandleader and producer Tom Excell explains, “As with the creation of all our albums, it’s a snapshot of our collective influences and journeys throughout the time it was made. A catharsis for our struggles, yet a vessel for our joy. Navigating through COVID, the magic of becoming a new parent, undergoing a vital leg amputation, recovering from car accidents, losing loved ones and forming new friendships have all shaped this music. But most importantly, the collaborative process helped reignite a liberating fire of resistance in each of us.”
The heady, sun-drenched release is peppered with impressive collaborations, including icons Nile Rodgers and Seun Kuti who bring their trademark disco and Afrobeat mastery to ‘Lights Out’ and ‘Carry Me’ respectively. Embracing the roots of UK sound system culture, ‘Find Your Flame’ takes dynamic turns, from the frenetic broken beat of the title track to reflective lyricism and lo-fi beats in 'Reach My Soul' and ‘Battle Isn’t Over’. Nubiyan Twist venture into grime and hip hop territory with 'Woman' and 'Pray for Me (Part 1)' featuring rising UK-based MC NEONE the Wonderer. The exploration continues into highlife and soukous with 'Pray for Me (Part 2)' featuring long-time Ghanaian collaborator K.O.G. and neo-soul with the sensual vocals of Ria Moran. The exceptional corto.alto from Glasgow features on 'You Don't Know Me’. 'Find Your Flame’ culminates in a sublime collaboration with ex-Salif Keïta backing singer Mamani Keïta, paying homage to traditional Malian music and the roots of the genres elegantly woven throughout the album.
After forming in 2011 while at Leeds College of Music, the band has moved around the country with Tom, Azia Jaye and drummer Finn Booth all now settled in Yorkshire. They mention the Leeds' Caribbean community and carnival, Sub Dub, Sinai Sound (one of the best reggae sound systems in the country) and the growing Sheffield music scene as highlights of the county’s rich culture.
