Over the past decade, have become one of the defining British bands, consistently expanding the possibilities of UK jazz while bringing its spirit to audiences around the world. What’s more, at a time when there seems to be a serious lack of it, the group have reached a pivotal point in their journey with their new album, ‘Here Because Of Hope’. More than simply delivering a sense of hope, the record offers feelings of calm, clarity and purpose, while further cementing Ezra Collective as one of the music scene’s most innovative and creative forces.

Building on this hope, opens the record with the words, “It is written, that on the other side of this pain, there will be a renewal”. Poignant and inspiring, the words cut through and immediately lock in attention to the body of work, quickly followed by jovial yet melancholic keys, met by a reggae beat and a burst of optimism that the band bring in abundance. As the album unfolds with ‘Sweet Echo’, there is a continuous growth that aligns with the title, a growing reason for hope, and something that feels so natural when it comes to Ezra Collective and their ability to navigate away from modern concerns and become fully immersed in the music. Moving forwards, steps to the forefront with their collaboration ‘Only Love’, a fusion that feels completely natural. Pa’s distinctive voice and intricate lyrics sit over Femi’s steady percussive beat, while gentle keys blend around them before “only love, deep inside my soul” rings out, closing the track with smooth brass tones.

Part 2 is then introduced once more by , detailing the need for purpose, belonging and, importantly to the section, soundsystems. ‘Birdie Sings’ opens the next chapter with a funk-fuelled rhythm, in a way that feels like a new, grand introduction to one of the best bands currently moving in the world right now. then introduces herself to the album, ringing out Max Romeo’s ‘I Chase The Devil’ with the iconic “Lucifer son of the morning, I’m gonna chase you out of Earth”, another nod to soundsystem culture. Driven by steel pans and dulcet brass, this is Ezra Collective in full flow, in collaboration with one of the coolest artists moving right now. Moreover, ‘El Corazón’ is where the band shifts tempo and fully explores their knowledge of world music, with soulful and infectious elements of samba as the group once again demonstrate their ability to drive the dance.

Approaching the final chapter, Wright offers concluding thoughts, reflecting on hardship, pain and injustice, while turning to calypso, Afrobeats, garage and pirate radio, not as the answer, but as a journey of hope in an attempt to arrive in a better place. Leona Lewis joins the album in ‘All I Need’, revelling in these words and offering a calming presence to an otherwise difficult moment, with her voice gracefully gliding across the beat. Moreover, and ‘Black Flag’ continue along this path of calmness, while also carrying a strong sense of intent. A collaboration with Libianca then closes out the album with ‘Most High’, bringing a real sense of style, rhythmic purpose and distinctive vocals that shine through.

‘Here Because of Hope’ brings everything that could be expected from a band in the form of their lives, purpose, rhythm, a sense of collectiveness and, most importantly, hope. With ‘Here Because of Hope’, Ezra Collective continue their journey with their most ambitious and emotionally expansive project to date, reaffirming not only their place at the forefront of contemporary British music, but the sense of joy, connection and optimism that has always sat at the heart of everything they do.

9/10