Ezra Collective releases fourth album ‘Here Because of Hope’

The British jazz quintet Ezra Collective has released their fourth studio album, ‘Here Because of Hope’. The London-based group, known for blending jazz with afrobeat, reggae, hip-hop, and calypso, continues to build on their significant commercial and critical success, which includes winning the Mercury Prize and a BRIT Award.

The new album features a diverse range of musical influences and guest appearances. Notable collaborators include British soul singer Leona Lewis, rapper Pa Salieu, Jamaican reggae singer Lila Iké, Cameroonian singer Libianca, and actress Letitia Wright, who contributes spoken word tracks.

Through its 14 songs, the album explores the history of Black music in Great Britain, touching on themes of colonization, migration, and integration. The record is described as a versatile fusion that reflects the contemporary sounds of cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester.