"Knats Unveils New Single Featuring Jazz Legends"
Exciting news from the Newcastle Upon Tyne music scene! The vibrant quintet Knats has just released a new single titled “Beauty & The Beast (Peace),” featuring the talents of Mike Keat from The Cuban Brothers and Simon Bartholomew of The Brand New Heavies. This collaborative effort represents a fusion of tight jazz instrumentation and powerful soul vocals, all wrapped in enticing grooves and funky guitar riffs. The single builds on Knats’ unique sound, embodying their philosophy of combining various musical influences into what they proudly call “Geordie Jazz.”
The release of this single comes on the heels of a remarkable year for Knats, following their critically acclaimed self-titled debut album, which was launched via Gearbox Records. This album has not only caught the attention of music enthusiasts but has also earned them a dedicated following. Knats have made waves by supporting renowned acts such as Geordie Greep from black midi and the legendary R&B artist Eddie Chacon on their recent UK tours. Fans have also enjoyed their performances at sold-out shows, including a headline event at Jazz Refreshed.
Knats’ musical style has garnered praise from several prominent publications, with Uncut highlighting their contribution to the UK jazz renaissance outside of London, and The Guardian describing their sound as a refreshing mix of jazz vitality and punk aggression. Their music is characterized by deep, danceable drum and bass grooves and strong melodies that have positioned Newcastle as a hub for innovative new jazz sounds.
In discussing the motivation behind their latest single, Keat remarked on the importance of crafting a song that resonates with broader themes of solidarity and social awareness without being overly political. This creative collaboration has synthesized the energy of Knats’ rhythm section with Keat’s soulful expression, resulting in a vibrant track that is both thought-provoking and enjoyable.
The album and single not only showcase the talents of Knats but also reflect the band’s deep ties to their hometown of Newcastle. Founding members Stan Woodward (bass) and King David-Ike Elechi (drums) draw inspiration from their experiences growing up in the West End of Newcastle, incorporating influences from their local culture into their music. Their story of overcoming challenges is woven into this musical journey, giving an authentic representation of their roots.
Listeners can expect to find emotional depth within their songs, as evidenced by tracks like “Tortuga (For me Mam)” and “Adaeze.” Each piece reflects personal stories and social consciousness, making their music resonate on multiple levels. The album serves as a celebration of both personal and communal experiences, encapsulating the spirit of the region and the band’s dedication to their craft.
“Beauty & The Beast (Peace)” signifies not only another milestone in Knats’ burgeoning career but also a reminder of the exciting developments within the UK’s jazz landscape. With their unique approach, it’s evident that Knats is making their mark as an essential voice in contemporary jazz music.
To check out their new single and dive deeper into their innovative sound, be sure to listen and share “Beauty & The Beast (Peace),” and stay tuned for more from this exceptional band.
