The Brick Lane Jazz Festival returns to London for its fourth year from April 25-27, 2025, showcasing a diverse lineup of emerging talent across multiple genres including jazz, hip-hop, neo-soul, and electronic music at various iconic venues around Brick Lane.
Jazz Re:freshed's 20-Year Legacy
Jazz re:freshed, founded in 2003 by Adam Moses and Justin McKenzie, has been a pivotal force in shaping London's contemporary jazz scene for two decades. This multifaceted organization has evolved from a weekly live music event in West London to encompass a record label, music festival, and radio show, playing a crucial role in nurturing and promoting emerging talent.
Key aspects of Jazz re:freshed's legacy include:
- Providing a platform for underrepresented musicians, particularly female, Black British, and young artists
- Launching the careers of notable artists like Nubya Garcia, Moses Boyd, and Ezra Collective
- Organizing JAZZ RE:FEST, an annual festival showcasing diverse jazz talent
- Expanding internationally through their Outernational initiative, which has brought UK jazz to global stages like SXSW
- Receiving recognition for their impact, including the 2020 Jazz FM Innovation Award
Through its various initiatives, Jazz re:freshed has been instrumental in bridging cultural gaps within the jazz community and fostering a new, diverse audience for the genre.
Emerging Artists to Watch
The Brick Lane Jazz Festival 2025 showcases a diverse array of emerging talent, reflecting the vibrant underground music scene in London. Some notable artists to watch include:
- Allexa Nava, Tendayi & Friends, and MckNasty, who are set to perform on the festival's opening night
- Xhosa Cole and Deschanel Gordon, rising stars in the UK jazz scene
- Ife Ogunjobi, a promising trumpeter headlining the festival
- Emerging artists like Miriam Adefris, David Kayode, and Jamie Leeming, who represent the next generation of jazz innovators
These performers exemplify the festival's commitment to spotlighting fresh talent across jazz, neo-soul, and electronic music genres, continuing London's tradition of nurturing groundbreaking artists in the contemporary jazz landscape.
Saturday Highlights: Xhosa Cole
Xhosa Cole, the BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year 2018, headlines Saturday's lineup at the Brick Lane Jazz Festival 2025, showcasing his innovative approach to jazz. Cole's performance is eagerly anticipated following the release of his third album, "On a Modern Genius Vol. 1," which reimagines Thelonious Monk's compositions. His set promises to blend traditional jazz elements with contemporary flair, reflecting his unique identity as a queer Black jazz musician.
- Cole's recent album received critical acclaim, named The Guardian's Jazz Album of the Month
- His performance may feature collaborations with tap dancer Liberty Styles, adding a visual dimension to the music
- Expect a mix of Monk covers and original compositions, highlighting Cole's evolving artistry and his role in shaping the future of UK jazz
Mercure London Paddington Hotel - Your Stay During the Brick Lane Jazz Festival 2025
For those attending the Brick Lane Jazz Festival 2025, the Mercure London Paddington Hotel offers a perfect base for your stay in the heart of London. Located just a short distance from Brick Lane and central attractions, the hotel provides modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and easy access to all festival venues.
