Join Xhosa Cole at Seven Arts Leeds as part of the launch of his third LP ‘On a Modern Genius Vol. 1’, which celebrates the compositions of the inimitable pianist Thelonious Monk. This new project ‘FreeMonk’ explores, abstracts and collages Monk’s compositions, breathing new life into these timeless tunes.

Winner of the 2018 BBC Young Jazz Musician of the year, Xhosa Cole is an embodiment of the success of numerous community arts programmes in Birmingham including the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra, Jazzlines Ensemble and Birmingham Music Service. Having grown up in Handsworth and first played the Tenor at Andy Hamilton’s Ladywood Community Music School, he’s now among a long legacy of Birmingham Saxophonists including Soweto Kinch and Shabaka Hutchings.

To date he’s released two studio albums: K(no)w Them, K(no)w Us featuring saxophonist, Soweto Kinch and Pianist, Reuben James and Ibeji, featuring conversations and duets with seven percussionists from the African Diaspora, which explores themes of Brotherhood, Ancestors, Masks, and Codes. Xhosa has the rare trait of having firm roots in tradition paired with an uncompromisable radical vision.

Joining Xhosa are some of the finest improvising musicians in the UK- Josh Vadivello (bass), and Tim Giles (drums),

Music https://vimeo.com/914054009

Reviews

‘It is the highly gifted Xhosa Cole who is currently making most waves … Cole has the rich expressive range and technical skills that characterise significant soloists.’ The Guardian

‘The 24-year-old tenor saxophonist/composer is a British sensation and proves that he’s here for blood with this release … He’s got technique, talent, artistry and a burning desire that shows throughout the set.’ Downbeat on ‘K(no)w Them, K(no)w Us’

‘The result is rich and singular. Cole’s duo exchanges with each guest are marked by elegance and curiosity’ The Wire on ‘Ibeji’

Support is from young Leeds sax player/vocalist Emma Coates (7.30-8pm)

Xhosa Cole ‘On a Modern Genius’ at Seven Arts Thursday 27 February 2025. Doors 7pm Music 7.30pm 

Support- Emma Coates band

Emma Coates band is a blend of jazz/folk/soul inspired by Snowpoet and Esperanza Spalding

Emma Coates sax/vocals, Harry Souter on guitar, Nika Ticciati on bass and Louis Bertoud on drums.