Ones to Watch: Cross the Tracks 2026
Ones to Watch: Cross the Tracks 2026 The end of May marks another edition of the Brockwell Park favourite. Here’s who we think you shouldn’t miss: By Caitlin Taylor 6 May 2026 BEL COBAIN We’ve been writing about Bel since the start of TNAM. She’s a consistent talent who continues to put out beautiful music year by year, as evidenced by her new EP ‘Kizzy‘. Listen to – ‘Am I Dumb’ & ‘Fucking City’ CHARLOTTE DOWSSON Her new single ‘Siren Song’ is fittingly titled, Charlotte Dowsson has the kind of voice that could lure lost souls out to sea. Her alluring style of R&B should be able to entice a crowd later this month. Listen to – ‘Siren Song’ & ‘Come to Me’ DEMAE Demae’s smooth voice is clearly influenced by classic R&B, but with an innovative edge demonstrated through creative instrumentation. Listen to – ‘Mystical Approach’ & ‘Don’t Play the Fool’ SHOLTO Sholto appears to do a bit of everything as a drummer/instrumentalist/composer/producer who’s influences stem from jazz and soul to Krautrock. His recent collaboration with Phoebe Coco is a must-listen. Listen to – ‘Everything is Stolen Away’ & ‘Electric Soup’ Find our review of the previous Cross the Tracks here – Buy tickets here –
Women of Modern UK Jazz
Women of Modern UK Jazz Playlist highlighting a new wave of female jazz artists. People’s playlists by: Ivana Pintaric You Might Also Like Recent Posts
Cross The Tracks 2025 Review – A Standout Summer Festival
Photo Credit: @garryjonesphotography Cross The Tracks 2025 Review – A Standout Summer Festival Love was in the air, along with some great jazz, funk and soul By Caitlin Taylor The last time I was at Cross the Tracks, I remember running towards Khruangbin just as the summer rain started. It was a top ten magical experience and this year had a lot to live up to, at least in my eyes. Last year saw Erkyah Badu controversially pull out at the last minute, and the recent drama about whether all Brockwell park festivals would be allowed to continue meant that I entered this year cautiously. Lynda Dawn was one of the first artists we encountered. She actually played last time I was here back in 2022 and it was nice to see her get a main stage upgrade. Her stage presence was incredibly impressive and she attracted a large and unexpectedly engaged crowd for such an early slot. It’s always nice to watch people who genuinely seem to be having fun while performing, and her dancing along with her backup singers put a smile on my face. We began wandering around, and were promptly pulled in by Nala Sinephro’s siren song. She and her band were a wonder to watch, her talent was completely captivating and what was meant to be a quick stop-off ended up with us staying for her whole set which involved her seamlessly moving between a harp and synthesiser. Fun fact: she also recently composed the soundtrack for the new Benny Safdie and Dwayne Johnson film ‘The Smashing Machine’ – definitely someone to keep on your radar. © Khali Ackford After a short group discussion about who to see next, we decided it was time to dance. Last Nubian were playing at the Funk Junction, featuring vocals from Achanté, who kept the crowd moving the entire time. It was a smaller stage but absolutely swarmed by people and we quickly became enveloped in the crowd, no complaints though! They worked perfectly together the entire time, definitely a standout. Luke Dyson @lukedyson http://www.lukedyson.com It’s undeniably amazingly curated, wherever you end up you’ll be hearing something great which is something I haven’t truly experienced at any other festival. It should also receive praise for being open to all generations, with such a variety of artists that both parents and kids will all have heard of at least someone – JGrrey to Gilles Peterson, Cymande to Jordan Rakei. It’s a festival that feels right at home on a Sunday, with the only caveat being the unfortunate fact that the grass has been stomped grey by the Dr Martens mosh pits at Wide Awake the previous Friday. The evening closed out with some mind-blowing sets from Last Nubians and Ezra Collective, two of the best performances I and the people I was with had ever seen. As the sun set and I looked back across the past few festivals I’ve attended, I couldn’t help but feel this one felt the most ‘right’. Stood in the centre of a massive group of people, spanning a large range of ages, everyone was smiling, laughing, singing along. When times are hard, this is what it feels we should hold on to, magical moments like these. Photo Credit: @garryjonesphotography
New Single: Matilda Rowe “Never Do”
New Single: Matilda Rowe “Never Do” An exciting debut track from London’s rising independent artist Matilda Rowe, Never Do is a fresh take on bedroom jazz mixed with neo-soul sensibilities. By Sophie Prior Currently Listening to: Centering in on Matilda’s rich and soulful voice, the track sees the artist exploring themes of self-resignation and singing of the frustration that comes along with never having enough time to do what we really want to. With relatable and honest lyrics accompanied by jazz-infused instrumentation, the single is creative, authentic, and marks an exciting start for the singer. Never Do opens with a smooth electric guitar progression with synth keys tinkling in the background, before a steady drum groove comes in along with Matilda’s honeyed vocals. With a distinctive sound developed over her many years of musical experiences, Matilda’s voice is captivating and her vocal runs and melismatic moments are effortless. Moving to the chorus, the beat moves to a slower, more syncopated rhythm, with a soulful horn tune added while Matilda sings ‘it’s another day, another sweat, another fight’ // ‘another change I’ll realise and make tonight’ // ‘another thing I’ll let myself aspire to, and never do’ // ‘and hate myself all a new’. The track becomes more experimental as it goes on, the energy growing as the singer scats and riffs and shows her vocal range and flexibility to the lyrics ‘I need more time’ while the band seem to jam and improvise. And as she is already known for being a great live performer, the track’s infectious energy is sure to be a hit on stage. Speaking on the influences for the track, Matilda notes Laura Marling’s New Romantic and Lianne La Havas’ Age for their repetitive guitar patterns and curious and honest lyrics. When it came to the instrumentation and production, Amy Whinehouse’s Help Yourself was the main reference track; another female artist that influences Matilda greatly. Never Do was produced by Gareth Finnegan and recorded at cult DIY studio, Total Refreshment Centre, in London. Written in the summer of 2022, the track’s release comes after years of hard work in the independent music scene: gigging in venues across London and the UK and building up a loyal following on social media. Matilda is part of a new wave of London and Dublin based artists who promote authentic creativity and finding your own sound – which she has definitely achieved with Never Do. Never Do is the first single from the artist’s debut album which is set for release in October this year. Talking about what we can expect from the rest of the album, the singer notes that the record ‘is raw and vulnerable and breaks boundaries of expectation consistently, in a way to capture life and humanity in its messiness’. Recorded in long form, the album hopes to take listeners on a journey full of catharsis, with lots of infectious melodies and great storytelling along the way. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
“it really helped me turn my feelings around and help me shift into a positive mindset.” Interview with Orla Rae
Orla Rae has explored a sonic landscape revolving around her vocal abilities,
fusing jazz, R&B and soul to forge a sound that has landed her in the open arms of BBC
Radio 1xtra and BBC Introducing – a string of wins that is sure to continue with her latest
offering ‘FOMO’.
Brassworks: Woolwich’s jazz festival is getting set for rhythm, roots and revolution
Brassworks: Woolwich’s jazz festival is getting set for rhythm, roots and revolution 20 September 2024 South-east London is set to come alive this Saturday, September 21st, as the Brassworks Street Carnival and Festival of Horns hits Woolwich. Nestled in the creative heart of Woolwich Works, the carnival, festival and finale concert promise a day of raw energy and ferocious talent. Evening Finale Tickets! Words by Heather Collier Woolwich has always had brass running proudly through its veins. From the regal sounds of the Royal Court in Greenwich to the thundering Artillery Bands of the Woolwich Arsenal, to the intoxicating pulse of London’s South Bank jazz scene, it has long been a hotbed of horn-driven music. With its deep-rooted musical heritage, this vibrant corner south of the river provides the ultimate backdrop for a festival brimming with life and brass-powered brilliance. This is not just any festival – it’s a moment for both seasoned jazz heads and first-time listeners to experience music together in its most explosive, joyful form. Here are our ones to watch for the 2024 lineup: Chineke! Orchestra Once the street carnival has quietened to a dull roar, Chineke! Orchestra will set the tone for the rest of the day at 1:30 PM with a traditional yet transformative performance. As Europe’s first major ethnically diverse orchestra, Chineke! have always set out to challenge the status quo of classical music and the outdated ideas that often come with it. Bollywood Brass Band By 2:30 PM, the Bollywood Brass Band will guide festivalgoers on a whirlwind journey from India to Woolwich with a hypnotic blend of trumpets, saxophones, dhol drums, and colossal sousaphone. The group have metamorphosised the traditional brass ensemble into a dancing, breathing embodiment of Indian cinema at its finest. View this post on Instagram She’s Got Brass At 3:45 PM, prepare for a colossal shift in the festival’s vibe as She’s Got Brass takes to the stage. This 10-piece, all-female-fronted brass band aren’t just going through the motions – they’re completely rewriting the rules of the game. In a genre that continues to be dominated by men, She’s Got Brass are expected to arrive with an electric stage presence. The band features some of the most accomplished female musicians on London’s jazz scene who have brought an extraordinary level of mastery to their instrument, with members having played alongside respected acts like Seed Ensemble, Colectiva, and the New Regency Orchestra. Camilla George Visionary saxophonist Camilla George promises to kick the party up a notch as the first headliner of the finale concert. Her sound is rich and layered, drawing listeners into a beautiful concoction where Afrofuturism, hip hop, and jazz have a musical meet-cute. Her playing is more than just technical brilliance – it’s a personal form of storytelling. The politically-charged undercurrent in George’s work is impossible to ignore – this is jazz as activism, a form of cultural reclamation where every composition becomes a way of voicing the things that truly matter. Having jammed with the likes of Nubya Garcia and Shabaka Hutchings, George is undeniably the embodiment of everything modern jazz is striving to become: a fusion of sounds and styles that nod to the past but move boldly toward the future. Ife Ogunjobi, Theon Cross and Steam Down Jazz lovers are in for an even bigger treat as the night goes on, with the remaining three headline acts boasting some of the brightest talent in UK jazz today. Expect to see Ezra Collective’s Ife Ogunjobi, whose trumpet cuts through with razor-sharp precision, the unstoppable Theon Cross, whose mastery of the tuba has redefined what the instrument can do, as well as the Deptford-based powerhouse and artist collective Steam Down. Add them all into the mix, and you have a night that’s simply unmissable. Woolwich remains a beloved, eclectic tapestry. The festival isn’t just a celebration of sound, it’s a celebration of ancestry, of stories and romance passed down through music. It’s a reminder that every beat is tied to something much deeper, something that speaks to where we’ve come from and where we’re going. Each note carries the weight of generations. At Brassworks, the music never stops, because the past and future are always playing in harmony. Brassworks Street Carnival and Festival of Horns takes place on Saturday 21 September. You can grab tickets here. You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
ISHA – ‘What You’re Seeing’
To advertise press kit, bio, signed status, sold venue capacity, upcoming shows/releases and create your own TNAM Database profile/contact board – sign up interest to TNAM Club here. ISHA – ‘What You’re Seeing’ Release Date: Release Type: Exposure: Genre: Location(s): Signed?: Current Venue Capacity : Streaming /Socials You might also like ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗ Recent Posts ⋆⭒˚.⋆
*✦⋆ GLASTONBURY 2024 ⋆✦⋆ Interview with Elles Bailey
*✦⋆ GLASTONBURY 2024 ⋆✦⋆ Interview with Elles Bailey “It’s going to be mega and I can’t wait!!! It’s my first Glastonbury EVER so I’m getting buckled up and I’m ready to enjoy the ride ! “ 20.06.24 Words by Genevieve Pughe https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IjYbju9MQ0 Recently you have been releasing some beautiful singles ahead of your next album. Would you be willing to tell us more about the overall inspiration/ story of the album? This album has big beautiful uplifting Melodies coupled with lyrics that are brutally honest and vulnerable . There is strong theme of love that threads between the songs and I have captured all the shades of love that have shaped my life, From the fleeting moments to the love that stands the test of time, and from the deepest despair of heartbreak to learning how to love yourself. And As always I take my listeners on the journey with me and share my stories openly. When it comes to the writing process, what do you find makes for the most effective lyrics?And do you have a lyric that you have written recently that you are particularly proud of? I find writing lyrics the hardest part of writing and I think the for me key is rewriting, going over and over making sure that I’m saying what I want to say. I re wrote the lyrics to Truth Ain’t Gonna Save Us for months and months. I find lyrics haunt me until I get them right. I’m really proud of the lyrics on this new record and there are quite a few that stand out to me but I must admit the opening lyrics to the album feel quite iconic “I’m pretty sure there’s not a pot of gold where the colours end, but I’ll blend up all the pigments and paint a picture …. “ That kinda sums how I view life really and is a great way to start an album! How would you describe the experience of making your album to tape? So this is the third time I’ve worked in this way so I’m pretty well versed at recording to tape now – and my band are incredible so it makes this process way easier when you have such talent in the room. When we recorded the Shining In The Half Light DLX tracks we didn’t even have a computer, it was all analogue…. Beneath the Neon Glow was a hybrid set up, recording to tape but then bouncing that to the computer so you have a little more control!! I hope you are looking forward to your upcoming Glastonbury set! What should people expect from your performance? Some brand new, never been heard music as well as a few old favourite tunes. It’s going to be an upbeat and jumping festival set and there will be lots and lots of sparkles on the stage too! What would be 3 essential items you couldn’t survive a festival weekend without? There’s so much I can’t live without and I am not good at parking light so narrowing down to 3 is almost impossible however not very excitingly …. My lip balm, my wet wipes and my toothbrushing kit!! Finally, If you were to pick a starter, main and dessert out of the acts you are excited to see play this year, what would it be? What this is So so so hard …. And there are some epic clashes …. However Last Dinner Party (apt for the task at hand) Nothing but Thieves Black Pumas View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elles Bailey (@ellesbailey)
Cross The Tracks Festival 2024
⋆⭒ Review ˚｡ Cross The Tracks Festival 2024 The fifth edition of Cross The Tracks touched down at Brockwell Park just over a week ago, the south-London festival celebrated another glorious (albeit rainy) day of jazz, funk and soul. 05.06.24 Words by Gabi Machen For many, it’s the annual signifier that summer is almost here and a sun-soaked season filled with live music is just around the corner. The festival featured a varied line-up spanning decades, showcasing an eclectic mix of up-and-coming UK artists, heritage names and global icons to draw a devoted crowd of music lovers. That familiar buzz of excitement felt like an old friend as festival-goers gathered at the Brixton site in anticipation. Shortly after the gates opened, an announcement rippled through the crowd: the beloved queen of neo-soul herself, Erykah Badu, would not be appearing. Despite the setback, Cross The Tracks emphasised that the festival ‘isn’t just about one act, it’s about 70 incredible acts, shaping and defining the genres we love globally’. While disappointment was felt among fans, the overwhelming spirit of community prevailed. Before long, attendees were navigating between stages, ready to sample everything the festival had to offer. A last-minute adjustment to the set times brought hip-hop legend Freddie Gibbs alongside Madlib for a spontaneous mainstage performance, while US girl group En Vogue rose to headliner status with an electrifying medley of their greatest hits. Amongst the 70+ acts were some fantastic emerging female artists. Arriving early for these slots is always worthwhile, offering a valuable chance to discover new music and explore the stages up close. Ella More opened the Caboose with a powerhouse performance. As the audience steadily trickled in, the singer-songwriter commanded the stage with stunning vocals and a natural confidence. Joined by her band, she treated the crowd to a live set of R&B-tinged alternative love songs, including the stand-out ‘You Know’, before wrapping up with her latest single ‘Balance’, a track that demonstrates her newly refined sound and ample potential. If you’re eager to support an artist at the beginning of their career and witness their growth, Ella More is one to watch. Meanwhile, at the D-Railed stage, The Blues Project curated a sensational line-up of artists, each bringing their unique flavour of R&B. Highlights included performances by London-based Natanya and Jamilah Barry. With a minimal setup and stripped-back arrangement, all attention was on Jamilah’s dazzling voice, accompanied only by a guitarist. She delivered a heartfelt dedication to those ‘facing unspeakable, unimaginable atrocities’, captivating the audience completely. During the rest of the set, fans grooved along to notable tracks like ‘Merlot’, ‘Uber Ride’ and ‘Woman’s Touch’, a song she collaborated on with Cross The Tracks alumnus Yussef Dayes. At one point, the crowd sang in unison under Jamilah’s direction, creating a magical moment within a wonderfully vulnerable performance. For a fix of jazz music, oreglo’s high-energy set had the crowd jumping, while Ife Ogunjobi gave a truly special performance. The trumpeter and composer, who previously played Cross The Tracks as a member of Ezra Collective, effortlessly took to the spotlight to showcase his exceptional musicianship following the release of his first solo EP last year. The atmosphere inside the tent was palpable from the start, it was evident everyone sensed they were watching something remarkable. Finally, Girls Love Soul expertly took over the booth, supplying a soulful soundtrack to the day and championing a selection of talented female and non-binary DJs. Overall, this year felt like a triumph for the underdogs, as the smaller stages shone through and delivered. With the departure of Erykah Badu and a lack of sound at the two larger stages, festival-goers were particularly inclined to embrace emerging artists. One of the great strengths of Cross The Tracks is the diversity embedded within its lineup. This day festival presents a fantastic opportunity to witness rare performances and serves as a springboard for discovering contemporary artists on the rise. Click here to get email updates for 2025 Tickets! You Might Also Like
•★•° New Single Release ☆•° . *: Jessica Wilde “FADE”
•★•° New Single Release ☆•° . * Jessica Wilde “FADE” ‘Let go. Roll with it.’ 11.04.24 Words by Liesl Hammer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8Mzc_Of_1g On 10th April, the rapper and pop artist from Brixton, Jessica Wilde graced us with her soulful voice and lyrical genius in her new song “FADE” in which she talks candidly about feeling strong enough to release toxic people and substances from her life. After battling with sobriety and being caught up in toxic situations, Jessica Wilde uses her artistic gifts to share her experiences to hopefully help others get through similar situations. She provides a safe space that encourages a loyal and connected fanbase. In an article with POP SINS, Wilde explains how yoga and meditation brought her back down to earth after fighting to get sober saying, “I just instantly felt kind of connected to [meditating and yoga] when I got into it… And yeah, it was from that I kind of went on a bit of a spiritual journey, I guess.” Growing up in a very artistic household; with her mother being an artist and jazz musician and her father being an actor, Wilde was always encouraged to follow her dreams and try her hand at music – it seems to be working well for her. Jessica Wilde’s ability to open up like this mixed with her talent to fuse jazz and pop has gained her a small following on Spotify and Instagram which I have no doubt is only going to grow, especially after the success of her 2023 single “Freak Out”. This hip-hop track about being unapologetically yourself, jumpstarted her career with critical acclaim from BBC Radio 1 ‘Future Artists’ and BBC Introducing, saying “This has to be the coolest tune on the lineup.”2 Wilde also received support from 6 Music, BBC Radio London, KISS, as well as features in CLASH, Complex, Wonderland, The Independent and many more. Rest ashore that Jessica Wilde’s brand new song “FADE” doesn’t leave anything out for her old fans who crave her heartfelt lyrics and leaves plenty of room for new people to discover her before her inevitable rise to fame. The soft drumbeat serves as a friendly hand, guiding you through the song and her journey of moving on and being comfortable enough to let go. The breathy harmonies at the end of each chorus, repeating ‘let go. Roll with it,’ seems to be Wilde reminding herself to keep going and not to turn back for people who hold you back. This is a sentiment I feel we should all follow. In an interview with BBC Radio London, Wilde says that “Fade” is about the art of letting go of someone before they start to damage you. Of seeing the red flags and going ‘I deserve better.’ I hope she keeps writing songs with a similar message as many people would connect with this. View this post on Instagram A post shared by JESSICA WILDE (@iamjessicawilde) You Might Also Like