Constantly reinventing itself, the London scene is once again in the spotlight at the Grande Halle de La Villette, featuring a breakthrough act – saxophonist Venna and his effortlessly smooth blends – and an established favorite: the Kokoroko collective, at the top of its groove.
Until now, Venna has mainly worked behind the scenes with major artists, contributing his talents as a musician and producer to projects such as Nigerian star Burna Boy’s album Twice as Tall, which won a Grammy Award in 2021. After two EPs, the young Londoner is stepping into the spotlight with a sumptuous debut album. Released in fall 2025, Malik takes its title from the saxophonist’s first name and draws on the many encounters and experiences he has accumulated over the years, moving elegantly between jazz, bossa nova, soul, and hip-hop. The list of guest artists lending their voices to these mesmerizing tracks sets the tone for this natural eclecticism, from Jorja Smith and Leon Thomas to American rappers Smino and MIKE. Line-up - Venna - Kokoroko - Sheila Maurice-Grey - trumpet, vocals - Roy Onome Edgeworth - percussion - Anoushka Nanguy - trombone, vocals - Oluwatobi Adenaike-Johnson - guitar - Ayobami Salawu - drums - Yohannes Kebede - keyboards - Duane Atherley - bass
Source: paris.fr — photo: © Tj