You can't steal my joy

"Establishing themselves in recent years as central to the burgeoning London jazz scene through energetic live sets led by powerhouse band-leader Femi Koleoso, their self-released EPs (...) have opened the genre up to younger and more diverse audiences attracted by their blend of afrobeat, hip-hop and soul improvisations. The release of their long-awaited debut LP continues this jazz-fusion narrative, opening with spiritual jazz classic "Space Is the Place" before moving on to the meditative piano of "Philosopher II" and neo-soul inflected rap of Loyle Carner-feature "What Am I To Do?" ... The collective's strengths come in its longstanding telepathic musicianship with highlights on jazz-leaning instrumentals such as "King of the Jungle" and "Shakara", featuring Kokoroko. The record is a joyous listen".

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"With its debut recording, London-based quintet Ezra Collective offers a fresh and funky spin on the thriving jazz moment emanating from the British capital. The group is the latest among a young cohort of Londoners to make their U.S. debut, completing a nationwide tour in March. Its sound is a confident admixture of jazz experimentalism and Afro-diasporic touches - from the laid-back reggae groove of "Red Whine" to Afrobeat jam "Shakara" ... You Can't Steal My Joy - though a bit rough around the edges - features an ambitiously creative ensemble and suggests that the group has a long and fruitful musical path ahead".

"Buoyant vibes, pithy grooves and catchy tunes from UK jazz's most unified group delight".