In constant metamorphosis, the London scene is once again enjoying pride of place in the Grande Halle of La Villette, this time with a new revelation – saxophonist Venna and his ever-flexible mixes – alongside a big name: the collective Kokoroko, at the peak of groove.

As at ease as ever, Kokoroko has proven that there is a life after a hit as popular as “Abusey Junction”, the smooth groove they came out with in 2019. Since then, the London-based octet has forged a solid reputation on stage through warm and welcoming concerts, including two that left their mark on Jazz à la Villette. And their discography does not disappoint, between Could We Be More (2022) – a brass wonder which perfectly balances between the energy of afrobeat and the calm of soul-tinged jazz – and Tuff Times Never Last (2025). On this second album, the group dared to share radiant optimism, offering tighter and more structured writing over a groove that continued to show inspiration from afro-jazz rhythms, for rich tracks in which voices and brass blend together as one. Released in March 2026, the live EP From Metropolis Studios is a perfect example of the group’s striking energy on stage.