The last weekend of June I had the pleasure of visiting the legendary Jazz Café in Camden, London. As someone who hails from Manchester, the allure of London’s nightlife has always intrigued me, and this night did not disappoint. Stepping into the Jazz Café, I was immediately enveloped by its storied history and the vibrant energy that filled the compact venue.
The Jazz Café has been a cornerstone of London’s music scene since it opened its doors in 1990. Over the years, it has hosted a plethora of legendary artists such as Amy Winehouse, D’Angelo, and Roy Ayers, cementing its legacy as a hub for both established and emerging talents. The intimacy of the space allows for an immersive experience, where the connection between the audience and the performers is almost tangible.
Before delving into the performances, it's worth exploring the genre at the heart of the night – UK Funky. Emerging in the mid-2000s, UK funky blends elements of house music with Afrobeat, soca, and broken beat. Originating from London's scene, it is characterised by its syncopated rhythms, percussive beats, and beautiful melodies. The genre gained popularity through pirate radio stations, which played a crucial role in its rise and growth. Artists like Crazy Cousinz and Roska were instrumental in bringing UK funky to the forefront, creating tracks that became anthems in clubs across the UK.
The night I attended was part of a special series honouring pirate radio. Every Friday this past June, the Jazz Café celebrated the evolution of various genres, spotlighting some of the golden era's finest exports. This particular evening featured an impressive lineup:
Crazy Cousinz, Roska, Cooly G, and Marcus Nasty.
Despite the timings being a bit off – the event ran an hour behind schedule – the crowd was unfazed. The venue was abuzz with anticipation, a melting pot of ages and backgrounds, united by a shared love for the music. The delay only seemed to heighten the sense of excitement in all honesty, ramping us up – it was either going to flop or succeed.
Roska, opened the night - a heavyweight in the UK funky scene. Roska's set was a masterclass in blending percussive elements with bass-heavy grooves. Tracks like his latest drop ‘Brick Phone’ and his 2020 release 'Static' is a fabulous example as to why he remains a dominant force within the genre. His influence on the scene is undeniable, bringing a raw and gritty edge that resonates deeply with fans. His stage presence was magnetic and it felt as if we were a wave as we all simultaneously moved with the sound. It felt special.
Cooly G took the stage next, bringing her unique blend of deep house and dubstep influences. Her sultry vocals and innovative production style have earned her critical acclaim, and her performance at the Jazz Café was nothing short of mesmerising. Songs like "Narst" and "Love Dub" filled the air, creating an atmosphere that was both hypnotic and exhilarating.
The night kept on giving as Marcus Nasty, a pioneer of the grime and UK funky scenes. Known for his high-energy sets and impeccable selection, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand. The crowd were feral for the groove, and that... I respect. His influence stretches far and wide, having played a crucial role in the development of the UK underground sound.
As the evening ticked on, soon it was 2am. When Crazy Cousinz jumped on stage, a name synonymous with UK funky house, the crowd went mad. Known for their infectious rhythms and unforgettable tracks like ‘Throwback’, they set the tone for the evening with a performance. The crowd moved as one, lost in the beats that have influenced a generation of dance music. I felt lucky to be there, their energy was infectious as the London crowd lost their egos in the midst of them playing. His set was a fitting end to an unforgettable night, leaving everyone in the venue buzzing with energy.
As I made my way back to Manchester, I couldn’t help but reflect on London’s nightlife. The Jazz Café, with its rich history and open stage setting, provided the perfect backdrop for a night celebrating the legacy of pirate radio and the artists who have shaped the UK’s musical landscape. It was a night where history, music, and community converged, and I was grateful to have been a part of it.
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As Always, see you at the front!
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