The first part of Nubiyan Twist’s name leaves no room for doubt: Nubiyan refers to one of the earliest cradles of civilization in Africa that was located in the Nile Valley some 5,000 years ago. But where does the Twist come from? Is there a fragment of information from the ancient Kerma culture about a peculiar style of partner dance that became a dance craze – or do people still twist there?

Well, no. Nubian twists are “a two-strand twist hairstyle” that has nothing to do with the London-based Nubiyan Twist. Except metaphorically, of course, but even then, very remotely. All the musical strands combined by Nubiyan Twist – including jazz, soul, funk, rap and reggae – have their roots in Africa or were born there.

Nubiyan Twist was formed 15 years ago by guitarist Tom Excell, who studied music production at Leeds Conservatoire. He wanted to create a small party band with no big plans, but over time it has grown into a booming orchestra whose fourth album from last spring Find Your Flame received the highest possible “blessing”: its opening track Lights Out features the groove master Nile Rodgers on guitar, who has had a significant hand in selling half a billion records worldwide.

Nubian Twist’s regular lineup includes no fewer than 12 musicians. Tampere Jazz Happening’s night club will, however, welcome a slightly smaller group with two wind players instead of five. Yet there should be no doubt that Nubian Twist will keep the audience on their toes, moving and dancing – perhaps even twisting.

+ DJ Jere Dangerous

https://tamperejazz.fi/en/programme/