Ezra Collective have spoken to NME about 2023 Mercury Prize and their impact on the jazz scene. Watch the full video interview above.Before they picked up the coveted prize for their second album ‘Where I’m Meant to Be’, the band caught up with NME and revealed the inspiration behind the record, and their unconventional plans to celebrate.The five-piece spoke with NME on the Mercury Prize red carpet yesterday (September 7), just before they took to the stage to perform their track ‘Victory Dance’ at London’s Eventim Apollo and be named as the winners of album of the year – beating off competition from the likes of Loyle Carner, Raye, Young Fathers, Arctic Monkeys, Lankum, Shygirl, Jockstrap and Jessie Ware.Here, drummer Femi Koleoso explained what it means for Ezra Collective to be representing the jazz community at the prestigious award ceremony, and how the members were caught off-guard by the widespread support they have received in light of their latest record.“I feel like it’s just wonderful to be a part of something so big and so special.
We’re just a small part of such a big picture,” he began, exploring how it feels strange to be receiving mainstream airplay. “It’s been really exciting just to be hearing it played in so many different avenues and places, you know?
To see people enjoying it and dancing to it — that’s all you can ask for really.”He also revealed to NME how the band planned to celebrate their upcoming victory, admitting that the members have their sights on their local 24-hour doughnut joint if they were to take home the award.Check out the full interview below, or watch it in full above.Femi Koleoso: “I’m good thank you.
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