Kokoroko^UK

On Wednesday afternoon, as we open the gates to the festival’s inner area, Kokoroko will be ready to deliver an unforgettable opening concert on Arena. Get ready for a show that will stay with you for the rest of the week – from one of London’s most compelling live bands right now.

Kokoroko emerged from London’s vibrant jazz scene and made their mark with an energetic blend of Afrobeat, highlife and jazz-infused hooks. Right now, the band is entering a new chapter with their upcoming album Tuff Times Never Last, set to drop just after their Roskilde Festival performance. The first singles already reveal a group that generously pours out feel-good vibes and sun-drenched funk – while adding new shades to their rich sound, drawing inspiration from 80s Brit-funk, neo-soul, West African disco, bossa nova, lovers rock and classic funk.

Things took off with their 2022 debut album Could We Be More – a confident and heartfelt release that resonated with both critics and audiences. Hailed as one of the year’s best albums by The Guardian, The Telegraph and Financial Times, it was praised for its warm horn arrangements, soulful grooves and elegant moods. Could We Be More cemented Kokoroko’s position as a key name in the new global jazz movement.

The seven musicians play with a sharp sense of dynamics and connection – tight horns, crisp grooves and a rhythm section that propels the music with both weight and ease. Their shows strike a rare balance between loose and precise – perfectly crafted to spark that special festival feeling from the very first beat.

Expect sunshine, rhythm and radiant London energy when Kokoroko takes over Arena and gets the party started – properly.