Astral People & Handsome Tours Presents
For more than a decade, Ezra Collective have stood at the forefront of a new movement in British music. Emerging from London's vibrant and ever-evolving jazz underground, the five-piece have become one of the most celebrated and influential bands of their generation, forging a sound that seamlessly bridges jazz, afrobeat, hip-hop, reggae, soul and dance music.
Their rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Formed through a free youth jazz programme in London, Ezra Collective transformed from local innovators into global trailblazers, becoming the first jazz act to win the prestigious Mercury Prize for their landmark album Where I'm Meant To Be in 2023. The following year, they made history once again, taking home Group of the Year at the BRIT Awards - a feat few would have imagined possible for a contemporary jazz ensemble.
At the heart of the band's success is a philosophy rooted in community, joy and musical exploration. Led by drummer and bandleader Femi Koleoso, Ezra Collective have consistently challenged perceptions of what jazz can be, creating music that honours tradition while embracing the sounds and cultures shaping modern Britain.
Now, following a completely sold-out Australian tour in 2025 - including a triumphant performance at the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House - Ezra Collective return in 2026 armed with their highly anticipated new album, Here Because of Hope, arriving on 18 September. The record marks the next chapter in the band's remarkable journey, further expanding their rich musical universe while reaffirming the boundless optimism and energy that have become their signature.
On stage, Ezra Collective operate with a rare and infectious chemistry. Their performances balance precision with spontaneity, moving effortlessly between moments of explosive intensity and deep musical conversation. Every show feels alive, driven by an unmistakable sense of purpose and an unwavering connection between band and audience.
Beyond their accolades, Ezra Collective represent something larger than themselves: a generation of artists reshaping the future of UK music. They have helped bring jazz back into the cultural conversation, proving that the genre remains a living, evolving force capable of filling concert halls, festival stages and dancefloors alike.
This October, Ezra Collective return to Australia for a special run of headline performances, including headline appearances at the inaugural Move My Way Festival in Sydney and Melbourne. Fresh from the release of Here Because of Hope, audiences can expect a celebration of rhythm, community and musical freedom from one of the most vital live bands on the planet.