“You may not see it coming but when it hits you, you’ll feel it.”

NGUVU: a Swahili term that means power, force and energy. This is also the perfect name for this northern groove-heavy jazz fusion, funk, soul, and hip-hop group.

Not your typical Manchester band, NGUVU is a genre-blurring collective that defies conventional norms. Birthed straight out of the mind of visionary drummer, composer, and MC, Jamal Lewis-Service, who not only provides the bars but the backbeat, NGUVU is a force that was once a hidden gem in the contemporary music scene.

Born in Moss Side, Manchester, and growing up within the African and Caribbean culture within the city, Jamal has always had the community’s version of street soul ingrained in him from the early days, and his drumming prowess, combined with his dynamic presence as an MC, creates an unmissable, surprising live experience.

Built upon a combination of jazz fusion, funk, soul, and hip-hop, with a teaspoon of rock, NGUVU’s style has small shades of The Roots, VulfPeck, Nubyian Twist, Funky Knuckles, Brand New Heavies, Jamiroquai, and Minneapolis Style Funk, yet it still maintains a sound and identity that is uniquely theirs.

At the heart of their sonic journey lies an unwavering commitment to groove. The band’s music is an irresistible invitation to move, a testament to their deep-seated passion, knowledge and application of rhythm. NGUVU’s distinctive sound is characterized by intricate musicality, infectious hooks, and a spirit of improvisation that keeps audiences on their feet and coming back for more, which differentiates them from the other bands within the city.

NGUVU have been invited by The Met to headline this performance following their Rooms to Live Project residency at Bury Art Museum.

The Rooms to Live Project continues to support local Greater Manchester artists with residencies and performances right through to February 2024. Visit the art museum’s website to learn more.

Support comes from Britizen Kane.

Hailing from Manchester, Britizen Kane has been building a name for himself within the UK rap scene. Becoming known for combining witty wordplay, powerful vocal performances and flows alongside collaborator Turkish Dcypha who delivers high driven contemporary instrumentals. Throughout the past four years, Britizen Kane has released his debut album as well as a string of DSP supported singles including collaborations with Jadakiss and Royce Da 5’9″. These releases have gained Kane over 2,000,000 streams in total, as well as radio support across BBC Introducing, 1xtra, KISS, Capital Xtra and many more.