"A true master of the form" - Clash Magazine
Dele Sosimi stands as a living legend of Afrobeat, having cut his teeth with Fela Kuti's Egypt 80 band before helping launch Femi Kuti's Positive Force. For over forty years, this Nigerian-British ambassador has kept the flame of authentic Afrobeat burning bright through his virtuoso keyboard work and rhythmic vocals.
From his early days with the Kutis to collaborations with pioneers like Tony Allen, Dele has shaped the global Afrobeat movement. His recent work spans from solo albums to innovative collaborations with Estuary 21 and Eparapo, showcasing his ability to push the genre forward while honoring its roots.
Expect an evening of complex funk grooves, traditional Nigerian rhythms, and jazz-infused arrangements from an artist who has graced stages from Montreux Jazz Festival to Mawazine. This is Afrobeat at its most authentic and explosive.
SUPPORT: VIPERTIME Leeds' aggro-jazz quartet brings their explosive blend of Ethio-jazz, proto-punk, and Fela Kuti influences to the stage. With twin drum sets and searing saxophone, they promise a sweaty, incendiary warm-up.
PRESS:
"Special" - Gilles Peterson, BBC 6 Music
"A total music legend!" - Cerys Matthews, BBC 6 Music
"Organically shimmering with sun-lit horns" - Songlines Magazine
"Something special" - Jamie Cullum, BBC Radio 2
