Tag: Soul

Hannah Rowe & Ibibio Sound Machine tear the roof off at Parish

BySaving Grace MusicCategoriesInNewsPosted onOn

The Parish in Huddersfield, known for its intimate, energetic atmosphere, was the perfect crucible for the sonic fireworks delivered by Ibibio Sound Machine on Friday night. It was an evening that started in soulful reflection and exploded into a joyous, sweat-drenched dance party, proving once again that the best nights out are those where the walls feel like they’re breathing along with the crowd.

Support: Hannah Rowe—A Local Star Shines Bright

Leeds based and Kirklees Most Wanted alumni Hannah Rowe set the bar high, proving exactly why she’s generating so much buzz. Trading the massive festival stages for the confines of The Parish, Rowe’s powerful, soulful voice filled every corner of the room. Drawing heavily on her jazz and soul influences, she delivered tracks like the reflective “Bellevue” and the massive “Waistcoat” with an emotional depth that belied the venue’s small size. Performing with a scaled down outfit from her normal 10-piece band they managed to create a sophisticated, layered soundscape that was both rich and intimate, providing a perfect, locally-sourced dose of warmth before the main event.

Headliners: Ibibio Sound Machine

When Ibibio Sound Machine took the stage, the vibe shifted instantly. Led by the magnetic Nigerian-British vocalist Eno Williams, the eight-piece group immediately plunged the packed room into a mesmerizing blend of West African highlife, post-punk electronica, and pure 80s synth-funk.

Williams is an unstoppable force of nature, narrating in the Ibibio language (often translated in real-time through her movements and sheer energy) while commanding the stage. The band’s setlist, featuring fan favourites like “Electricity,” “The Chant (Iquo Isang),” and the hypnotic “Protection From Evil,” was a masterclass in controlled chaos. Each song was a vibrant, polyrhythmic workout, driven by the relentless, propulsive basslines and the swirling, retro synthesizers that give the band its distinctive electronic edge.

The Parish’s relatively small 300-capacity room amplified the intensity; there was no room to stand still. By the time the band launched into the irresistible call-and-response of “Fire Fire Fire, Higher Higher Higher” the floor was a unified mass, hands in the air, echoing the sheer joy radiating from the stage.

The Huddersfield crowd’s embrace of the band’s global sound was a testament to the universal language of rhythm. Ibibio Sound Machine didn’t just play a gig; they curated a transcendental experience that lifted the spirits and left everyone feeling like they’d just participated in something primal and necessary. An unforgettable show, cemented by the raw energy that only a venue like The Parish can provide.

Photos by Zak Brierley

Take a look at the video highlights via the Saving Grace Instagram reels;

Hannah Rowe – Bellevue

ByAbigail UnsworthCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Hannah Rowe is an upcoming jazz vocalist based in West Yorkshire. After selling out a multitude of local venues and a summer full of festivals, her 10-piece band of close friends are now celebrating their recent EP with a new single called ‘Bellevue’. It’s a bittersweet, beautiful song which takes the listener on a journey of hesitant growth after friendship break-ups and growing apart. Rowe’s soulful sound and lyricism guide us through being young and learning to live, nostalgia and embracing the nature of change.

‘Bellevue’ starts with some enchanting, fingerpicked guitar and it’s only a few seconds before Hannah’s vocals flow into the song like water. A simply paced bassline then brings more reliant rhythm into the first verse and a lack of percussion at this point produces calm ambience with emphasis on the emotional vocals. From the beginning, this track is an obvious musical masterclass because we’re constantly being introduced to new instrumentation. So much energetic innovation is packed into this 3-minute song, yet it still upholds a sense of settled tranquillity. The chorus is vulnerable, intimate and is soon built with a swelling brass section and backing vocals which completely transform the song into its own alluring scene which still re-enforces that classic lounge jazz sound.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/hannahr0we

Cuckoo – Waiting

ByAbigail UnsworthCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Cuckoo is an up-and-coming rapper who’s celebrating the recent release of his second album ‘Orpheus’. Leading this project is his new track ‘Waiting All Night’ which blends his signature Yorkshire edge and hip-hop sound with a great storytelling ability. ‘Waiting All Night’ samples Rudimental and Ella Eyre but transforms that into a fresher and more relatable song. The narrative surrounds Cuckoo’s partner anticipating him coming home from the studio whilst she’s unconditionally faithful to him and his inevitable success as an artist. The song mirrors the rapper’s complex emotions as it constantly disorientates its listener by shifting perspective.

In the first verse, Cuckoo defines himself in his ambition towards his relationship and career. As a fully independent musician, he’s committed to mixing and mastering by himself as he waits for success. He’s also grateful for his perfect girlfriend who’s always ‘Waiting all night’ for him to return to her. This universal need of waiting for progression in different aspects of life haunts the song as the third verse leaves its familiar optimism behind. In its unpredictability, ‘Waiting All Night’ then resorts to heartbreak as Cuckoo honestly admits he feels his girlfriend’s incentive is too good to be true and so he’s still waiting for the right partner.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/cuckoo_cs

Flowers – Mystic Mystery

ByAbigail UnsworthCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

The artist Flowers is obsessive about music uniting its listeners, which is made evident by their new song “Mystic Mystery”. This track harnesses music as a positive force to help people believe in themselves and always strive for greatness. Even before any lyrics, “Mystic Mystery” is immediately uplifting with an introduction of soulful brass over simple chords, at once the song is so complex but an easy listen. Next, smooth vocals explore defying a society which wants to question your worth, and how there is feminine community in inspiring and rising through apparent constraints. Whilst still maintaining a relaxing tone, Flowers then breaks into an interesting rap verse further cementing the message. It’s an unexpected alternative track, and a welcoming, self-soothing track to whoever presses play.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/fiestalaginger/

Kilo_igrft – SMOOTH

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Kilo_igrft’s iconic sax sound mixed with raw stripped back vocals is what makes his music unique. His track ‘SMOOTH’ is a prime example of this. The track has no drums which pulls all the focus to the lyrics. The production also emphasises the lyrics beautifully to allow them to burst through and have the effect that was intended.

Kilo_igrft is incredibly authentic with his lyricism, and ‘SMOOTH’ is a perfect reflection of that honesty. The track dives deep into his thought process, unpacking the way he views the world and the emotions that come with it. What makes it stand out is how clearly his vision comes through — he’s unafraid to show vulnerability, which makes it easy for listeners to form a genuine connection with the music. Sonically, the production matches the theme effortlessly; the instrumental flows with an understated elegance, and the groove gives the track a natural, easygoing energy. True to its name, ‘SMOOTH’ glides from start to finish, leaving an impression that’s both reflective and undeniably captivating.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/igraft_life/

Jordan Higo – In My Absence

ByDaniel PackhamCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Jordan Higo, a Huddersfield native, has built a strong presence performing live at numerous venues around the area, gradually establishing himself as a compelling new voice in the music scene. His signature style comes to life on the track ‘In My Absence,’ where he masterfully blends classic R&B with contemporary pop, creating a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern. The track exudes a lustful, emotive energy, exploring desire and longing with a vulnerability that draws listeners in. Jordan’s storytelling shines through every lyric, painting vivid pictures of love, absence, and emotional complexity. Complementing this is the dreamy, atmospheric production, which sets the perfect mood and enhances the track’s intimate vibe. ‘In My Absence’ is not just a song; it’s an ode to confidence, desire, and artistry — a captivating introduction that leaves listeners wanting more and firmly positions Jordan Higo as an artist to watch.

Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/jordanhigo

Cezza Sean – New Flex

ByKirklees Most WantedCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Cezza Sean, a Huddersfield-based artist, crafts a unique sonic alchemy, transforming personal experiences into vibrant and uplifting music. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources like Little Simz, OutKast, and FR33 SOL, he creates a sound that bridges the gap between old-school soul, reggae, and hip-hop, all while infused with a contemporary and timeless production style.

Cezza Sean’s music is deeply spiritual & philosophical, incorporating elements of Far Eastern philosophy through both his message and his soundscapes. He believes in the power of music to uplift and inspire, creating a space for listeners to connect with their inner selves.

“New Flex” embodies this ethos. The track challenges the traditional notions of “flexing” material possessions, instead advocating for health and wellness as the ultimate display of strength. Cezza Sean emphasizes the fleeting nature of material goods, highlighting that true fulfillment comes from nurturing one’s mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. “New Flex” promotes a shift in perspective, urging listeners to prioritize their health as the greatest flex of all.

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/cezzasean/

Cuckoo – Estate

ByKirklees Most WantedCategoriesInMusic ReviewsPosted onOn

Batley-based rapper Cuckoo, a self-taught artist, brings a fresh perspective to the local hip-hop scene. Crafting his music entirely from his bedroom, he channels a deep passion and determination, drawing inspiration from hip-hop legends like Eminem, 2Pac, and Biggie Smalls.

Cuckoo distinguishes himself by injecting vibrancy and humor into his music and visuals. His track “Estate,” accompanied by a community-driven music video filmed on the Wilton estate, reflects this approach. Instead of the typical dark and serious tone often associated with local rap, Cuckoo delivers bouncy, lighthearted, and sometimes comedic tracks.

“Estate” provides a glimpse into life on a council estate, but with a twist. Rather than focusing on the hardships, Cuckoo uses humor to highlight the everyday experiences, offering a relatable and often funny take on a topic that’s often portrayed negatively. He is currently working on his debut album “Orpheus.”

For more info: https://www.instagram.com/cuckoo_cs/

The Kirklees Most Wanted project is being delivered by The Saving Grace Collective and is part funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund 
© Saving Grace 2025