Sunday _15.11.26

Nubiyan Twist UK

Irresistible grooves and explosive live energy from a nine-piece afrojazz ensemble

Nubiyan Twist deliver an energetic fusion of jazz, funk and soul that is nearly impossible to stand still to. The nine-piece ensemble is renowned for their phenomenal live shows and played a completely sold-out concert at ALICE last year. This autumn, they return with a new line-up, a brand-new live show, and their latest album “Chasing Shadows” (2026).

Nubiyan Twist was formed in 2011 at Leeds College of Music, where they developed their expansive, genre-blending sound drawing on jazz, hip hop, afrobeat, dancehall, soul, reggae and electronic music. The ensemble consists of nine musicians spanning saxophone, trumpet, vocals and percussion, together creating warm, infectious grooves and life-affirming songs.

Over the years, the band has built a reputation as one of the UK’s strongest live acts. Their releases and concerts have received praise from audiences and media alike — including NPR, which described their sound as “Joyous, beautiful and rich”. Following collaborations with artists such as Nile Rodgers, Tony Allen, Seun Kuti and Fatoumata Diawara, Nubiyan Twist continue to explore new musical connections across cultures and generations. We look forward to welcoming them back to ALICE following last year’s packed-out concert.

What people say about Nubiyan Twist
“Joyous, beautiful and rich” – NPR
“When this nine-piece collective find their flame – it burns brightly” – Rolling Stone
“Absolutely thrills and excites” – Louder Than War
“An absolutely joyous listen” – Bandcamp Daily