Sons of Kemet

Sons of Kemet were a British jazz group formed in 2011 by saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer Shabaka Hutchings. Their music incorporated elements of jazz, rock, Caribbean folk, and West African music, creating a distinctive and powerful sound. The group consisted of Hutchings alongside tuba player Theon Cross and drummers Tom Skinner and Eddie Hick.

The band released four studio albums: Burn (2013), Lest We Forget What We Came Here to Do (2015), Your Queen Is a Reptile (2018), and Black to the Future (2021). Their albums frequently explored themes of racial identity, social injustice, and historical narratives through a combination of instrumental compositions and spoken word elements.

Sons of Kemet gained widespread critical acclaim and toured extensively both in the UK and internationally. They were known for their energetic and dynamic live performances.

In 2023, Shabaka Hutchings announced that Sons of Kemet would be disbanding after a final series of performances, allowing the members to pursue other creative projects. The band's legacy is characterized by their innovative blending of musical styles and their politically charged, thought-provoking themes.