Soothsayers

Soothsayers made an initial mark with their acclaimed debut album, Lost City, which was grounded largely in a jazz framework, shaded by hues of reggae and African rhythms. That set was followed by Tangled Roots, an exceptional second album that defies standard classifications: the West African root that drove Fela Kuti’s rebellion is filtered through the deeply seductive dub experimentation of Lee Perry, King Tubby and Augustus Pablo, to create a sound firmly lodged in London’s broader musical experience.

The line-up is a minimum of 7 musicians plus the option of increasing to 9 on stage. The core band features Robin Hopcraft (trumpet/vocals), Idris Rahman (sax/vocals), Zoe Rahman (keyboard), Julia Biel (vocals), Kodjovi Kush (bass/vocals), Patrick Illingworth (drums), and Phil Dawson/Derek Johnson (guitars).

Soothsayers also offer guest appearances from Michael Prophet (UK resident) . Johnny Clarke (Jamaica), Linval Thompson (Jamaica).

Their debut EP on Wah Wah 45s was released in 2017, providing a fresh take on 4 live favourites, including re-workings of Afro-jazz favourites, and expansive vocal versions of classic Soothsayer dubs.