In a major development for the contemporary British music scene, the double Mercury Prize-nominated multi-instrumentalist Shabaka has announced his new solo studio album, Of The Earth. Set for release on March 6th, 2026, via the newly formed Shabaka Records, the project marks a significant evolution for an artist who has spent a decade reshaping the global perception of British jazz.
A Return to the Saxophone and a Vocal Debut
Of The Earth is a deeply personal work, written, performed, produced, and mixed entirely by Shabaka himself. The album represents a bold integration of his past and present; it synthesizes the dance-driven energy of his former groups, Sons of Kemet and The Comet Is Coming, with the meditative, flute-led textures of his more recent solo explorations.
Most notably, the record captures Shabaka’s highly anticipated return to the saxophone. After a period of withdrawal from the instrument to focus on global flute traditions, he returns with a renewed clarity of breath and resonance. Furthermore, for the first time in his career, Shabaka will be heard rapping—an extension of his rhythmic phrasing inspired by the fearless experimentation of André 3000.
“This record is my celebration of freedom in creative self-expression,” says Shabaka. “Before the pandemic, I knew nothing about music production... so this has been a journey of learning.”
Headline Show: Village Underground, London
To celebrate the album's launch, Shabaka will perform a special headline show at Village Underground in Shoreditch on April 7th, 2026, buy tickets below. Known for its industrial atmosphere and exceptional acoustics, the venue provides the perfect backdrop for Shabaka’s new blend of electronic rhythms and diasporic movement. Given his status as a defining figure in UK culture, this London date is expected to be one of the spring's most essential live experiences.
Lead Singles Out Now
Fans can get a first taste of the new era today with the release of the double lead single, “A Future Untold” and “Marwa The Mountain.” Both tracks showcase his new role as an instrumentalist-producer, weaving expansive choral melodies over sophisticated electronic foundations.
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