Kokoroko - “Abusey Junction”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 10

Pairs Well With…Ezra Collective, Khurangbin, Moses Boyd

Coming out of a flourishing London jazz scene right now, Kokoroko finds unique space with Afropop infused grooves anchoring the band’s self-titled debut EP. While this could be turn Kokoroko’s sound into a percussive-led monster, the UK seven-piece is unexpectedly subtle, often working around ambience and lounge-ready grooves. Psychedelic rock guitar lines echo through Kokoroko’s music, but it’s the band’s horn section the often takes the lead, slowly building as one instead of just pass-the-ball jamming that is often used in similar, down-tempo jazz settings. Their sound is pretty and patient, raw and authentic - surely an exciting catch live as they head down to Austin for one of their first Stateside trips this March. (Kevin McStravick)