Master of ceremonies Jools Holland is joined by The S.L.P., Elbow, Little Simz, Michael Kiwanuka and slowthai.
Songwriter, guitarist and singer Serge Pizzorno has taken a new avenue for his first self-titled solo project, The S.L.P. It still incorporates the rock guitars that define the sound of his band Kasabian, but adds to that a touch of dance. Recorded in his Leicester home studio, The Sergery, the record features guest appearances from Little Simz and slowthai.
Manchester’s finest Elbow join Jools in the studio with a number from their eighth album, Giants Of All Sizes. The band changed the way they work for this record and began the recording process in a Hamburg studio. The result is a dark record which is both personal and political, reflecting the turbulent times we are living through.
Michael Kiwanuka shares songs from his deeply personal third album, Kiwanuka. The follow up to his number one LP, Love & Hate, was recorded in London, New York and LA with producers Danger Mouse and Inflo.
The first of two Mercury prize 2019 shortlisted artists in the room this week is North London rapper Little Simz. Her third album, Grey Area, is a record of big tunes and diverse sounds which has seen the musician gain huge much deserved acclaim, sold-out shows and prestigious festival slots. Not only has it been a huge year musically, Little Simz also scored a role in the much-acclaimed drama Top Boy.
The second of the Mercury’s shortlisted artists, and making his debut on the show, is rapper slowthai. His album, Nothing Great About Britain, features tales of life growing up in a Northampton suburb known locally as the ‘Bush’ and his comment on the state of the nation. Embodying the ethos of punk, his live shows are sweaty affairs, which frequently see him perform in his boxer shorts.
Later … with Jools Holland – Thursday at 10.00pm on BBC Two.
