Newcastle-based jazz innovators Knats have officially detailed their highly anticipated new album, A Great Day In Newcastle. Set for a digital release on March 6th and a physical release on March 29th via Gearbox Records, the project was produced by long-time collaborator and black midi frontman Geordie Greep. The announcement follows a monumental year for the band, who have toured as the live unit for both Greep and R&B veteran Eddie Chacon, while picking up a Best Breakthrough nomination at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards and playing mainstages at Love Supreme and We Out Here.
The album’s lead single, “Wor Jackie,” introduces a heavier, narrative-driven aesthetic for the group. Drawing on the history of North East coal mining, the track uses legendary Newcastle footballer Jackie Milburn as a focal point to explore the grit and community of the region’s past.
Speaking on the track, Stan says:
“‘Wor Jackie’ was written at a time when I was reading into the North East coal mining industry, after a conversation with me grandad talking about his time as a pitman. The community aspect amongst the pitman astounded me, given the dangerous nature of the job. The piece, I initially intended to be a moody sort of march, which then evolved with the addition of Cooper Robsons gorgeous poems. The title ‘Wor Jackie’ refers to Newcastle football player Jackie Milburn, who was believed to have done half days in the pit and half on the football pitch, and who I thought would be the perfect character to represent this story.”
Musically, the project sees the band, led by lifelong friends Stan Woodward and King David-Ike Elechi, experimenting with Olivier Messiaen’s modes of composition. The result is a sound that balances sophisticated, colourful arrangements with the danceable grooves and rock influences that have made their live shows a word-of-mouth sensation.
To support the release, Knats will embark on a headline UK tour this spring, including a slot at the Brick Lane Jazz Festival and an upcoming performance at London’s iconic 100 Club. Combining blistering saxophone solos and poetry from new member Cooper Robson, the album looks to solidify the band’s position as one of the most exciting acts currently bridging the gap between technical jazz and the UK’s experimental rock scene.
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