Nubiyan Twist
It’s a glorious day in Norwich to listen to some jazz, and Nubiyan Twist delivered exactly what we needed for this bright summery day.
I entered the Green Room next to Epic Studios anticipating a timely start to this evening’s event, unfortunately the main act was a little late to their performance. But no matter, they made up for it with their varied and inspired music. Despite that, the scene was bustling with curious and excitable people looking for something to end their hot day out. And for those who found themselves at Epic Studios, they enjoyed a sold out evening of Jazz fusion with elements of reggae, Latin, and soul. It was filled with attendees for this virtuoso band who first laid their roots in Norwich around 10 years ago. The band themselves formed in 2011 at Leeds College of Music where they started their profession. Originally, Nubiyan Twist began as a university project, aiding in leader Tom Excell’s degree submission. Years later, they find themselves with tons of sold out shows and millions of listeners on apps like Spotify with some of their biggest hits having 11 million plays.
As I stood there pondering if the songs I’d recently added to my playlist would be performed tonight, the stage lights dimmed, and like a magnet, attendees gravitated towards the stage using their concert muscle memory. The opening act - Tara Lily, finally spotlighted the stage after travelling all the way from South London. We were introduced with tracks like Speak In The Dark. Lily’s vocals came in smooth, light and high. Her songs provoked intrigue with blends of alternative jazz and electronic pop. One of those songs, namely Double Time was inspired by her Bengali heritage, further influenced by the divine, and taking risks.
Eventually, one jazz act was swapped out for another. Smoke machines turned on and Nubiyan Twist entered the stage. They began with a chaotic robotic introduction that mimics the voice of ‘AI’ which proclaimed its jealousy of live music, something Nubiyan Twist rightfully states it could never replace. Tonight’s show evoked many thoughts on why that was. The only word that came to mind was humanity, their songs were simply too human, emotional, varied in their genres but still singular to the band. The way they flowed with each other felt instinctual, like it was second nature to them. That’s not something easily replicated. With songs like Carry Me, you start to see where their individuality comes in. Afrobeat influences complimented their jazz elements wonderfully in this high energy song. Saxophone and trombone highlighted the songs whilst the percussion made way in the background with a fast paced rhythm.
Other singles like Pray For Me had more personal touches. Leader Tom wrote this with his children in mind, hoping to perform it through their voice to the adults in the crowd.
Every band member had their moment to shine, Junior on drums, Nick on saxophone, Eniola with her brilliant vocals, Tom with the percussion. A trombone and Lewis on piano also had their moment accompanied by Luke on bass. Attendees, including myself, were ultimately fascinated at the talent radiating off the stage.
It was a collaborative effort to get everyone involved. Nubiyan Twist made sure of that. The crowd was hyped regularly, encouraged to sing, clap, two step, maybe even three step if you were really feeling it. Most of all, I appreciated the effort, or for lack of a better word, attempt, to get a bunch of Norfolkians in a mosh pit during one of the last songs. Especially when they’ve been out on the bend all day taking advantage of this tropical weather; truly an entertaining end to my night.
Their almost two decades of artistry reflected throughout the concert. Gradually, we saw them implement hints of rock, reggae and Latin influences whilst remaining consistent with their jazz elements. Hopefully next time we don’t have to wait another 10 years for their next visit. See you next time, Nubiyan Twist?
