Ezra Collective: Finding Joy in the Midst of Turmoil at New Afrika Shrine

## Exploring Joy Amidst Chaos 2023 marked a significant moment in the world of music, as the UK-based ensemble Ezra Collective found themselves performing at the iconic New Afrika Shrine in Nigeria. This venue holds a reverent place in music history, built by the children of the legendary Fela Kuti, whose original Afrika Shrine was a bastion of Afrobeat until it was torched by military authorities, enraged by Fela’s unyielding critique of the establishment. During a series of conversations, the band members reflected on their tumultuous experience in Lagos. Saxophonist James Mollison vividly recalled the city's frenetic energy, recounting instances of chaotic driving that left him both bewildered and concerned. “There were things I’ve never seen before; people driving down the motorway the wrong way,” he said, echoing a sentiment of confusion that permeated their visit. Drummer Femi Koleoso added a sobering perspective, speaking about the stark divide between affluence and poverty that left him with indelible images. "You could see things where [you think], ‘well, I’m not gonna unsee that, am I?’ It’s pretty heavy." Despite the chaos, the band's performance at The Shrine became a moment of catharsis, an outpouring of collective joy amidst the world's uncertainties. Trumpeter Ife Ogunjobi described it as “an experience like no other,” unable to find words that would fully capture the vibrant energy of that evening. Tragedy struck shortly after, when a young member of Femi's Jubilee Youth group was murdered in East London. The emotional toll was staggering. “It’s a pain that’s just unimaginable,” he said of the loss, highlighting how that grief weighed heavily on him as he prepared for their next show. He grappled with a dilemma: fulfill the audience’s desire for an uplifting experience while honoring his own deep sorrow. Ultimately, he chose authenticity over pretense. Addressing the crowd, he opened up about his struggles, understanding that his vulnerability might resonate in an unexpected way. Instead of dragging the energy down, his honesty supercharged the performance, creating a space where shared suffering transformed into profound release. The night became an exaltation of life, mirroring the notion that sometimes the depth of our pain can amplify our joy—much like a ball pushed under water springs higher when released. The narrative surrounding Ezra Collective is rich with contrasts: a journey through despair that leads them to uncover glimmers of hope. Their commitment to expressing this resilience is not merely artistic but deeply personal. As they explore pain and joy's intertwined relationship, their music becomes a beacon—a declaration that even in darkness, there exists the potential for light and connection. With their new record, **[Here Because Of Hope](https://diymag.com/review/album/ezra-collective-here-because-of-hope)**, the band delves into the historical interplay of joy and suffering in Black music. They aim to illuminate how these contrasting experiences have shaped their art and the broader musical narrative. What they’ve discovered speaks volumes not just of their journey but of a universal human experience—a testament to the enduring power of hope, even in the most challenging times. 

A New Era for Ezra Collective

Ezra Collective's latest album, *Here Because Of Hope*, could have easily buckled under the weight of expectations. After their meteoric rise, which saw them clinch the Mercury Prize in 2023 with *Where I’m Meant To Be*, the pressure to repeat that success is palpable. The band, which originally formed through the Tomorrow's Warriors jazz program, has spent over a decade cultivating their craft. Their evolution is marked by significant milestones, including being named Group of the Year at the BRIT Awards, an accolade achieved only by them in the jazz genre. Joe, highlighting the importance of separating their artistic vision from outside pressures, draws an amusing parallel to the faltering final season of *Stranger Things*. The show's attempt to appease fan demand led to a diluted narrative—something he clearly hopes to avoid. Conversely, TJ adopts a more laid-back perspective on the album’s reception, comparing their creative process to cooking a splendid meal. His anticipation rests not on universal acclaim but rather on personal satisfaction with their work. Femi reflects on the notion that their artistic journey has been intertwined with his own growth, dismissing any lingering need to impress. At this juncture, he embraces the maturity they’ve gained over the years, signaling a shift in their music that he describes as a departure from “immaturity.” Instead of mere display of skill, the focus has now shifted towards truthfulness and emotional expression within their playing. Suggesting further nuance within their sound, he acknowledges a richer gravity, especially during solo performances. They've shed the anxious need to impress in favor of crafting music that resonates more deeply. This phase of their career also reflects a sustained commitment to their roots and communities that supported their rise. Femi frequently engages with youth groups, ensuring that their success remains grounded in gratitude rather than arrogance. His connection to teaching encapsulates the essence of their journey—a reminder that music is as much about community as it is about personal achievement. The album has a global resonance yet is deeply anchored in the vibe of London, a melting pot of influences. Femi states, “We wanted to sound like Ezra Collective,” emphasizing their aim of authenticity rather than merely mimicking styles from their heritage. Their genre-blending reflects the multicultural fabric of the city, allowing their sound to evolve as a survival mechanism. In essence, this album is not just about musical exploration but a testament to endurance and resilience, illustrating that life’s challenges can give rise to creativity infused with hope.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Future of DIY

As we wrap up our exploration of the DIY sector, it’s apparent that the market is teetering on the brink of significant transformation. Whether you're a professional in the industry or an avid enthusiast, now is an opportune moment to engage with these changes. Subscriptions to DIY publications, for instance, offer a reliable way to stay updated on the latest trends, tools, and techniques reshaping our creative landscapes. But here's the catch: consumer interest is shifting. The prevalence of digital resources and social media means that DIY products and ideas are more accessible than ever. Traditional subscription models need to adapt—those who don’t may risk being left behind. This isn’t just a passing phase; it reflects a broader trend where information accelerates, and DIY culture becomes more communal and collaborative. Now, consider what this means for your own work or passion projects. The DIY community is evolving, and understanding these trends can give you a competitive edge. By tapping into subscription-based resources, you not only support the industry but also enrich your own practice with curated insights and premium content. Lastly, if you're intrigued by the potential of staying deeply connected to the DIY movement, consider subscriptions like the one linked here. They promise more than just access to content; they offer a gateway into a vibrant creative community. Dive in and see how it can inspire your next big project. With these shifts in mind, let's keep questioning: how can we leverage the DIY ethos to innovate further and build something truly meaningful?