Knats infuse jazz with high-energy noise-rock on “Take a Seat on the Settee”

The past year has been a whirlwind for the Geordie band that consists of five talented musicians. They recently unveiled their first album, took to the road to support Eddie Chacon on tour, and played various gigs throughout the UK, from The Jazz Café to BBC Proms. However, their latest single, “Take a Seat on the Settee,” indicates a shift towards a fresh, more unconventional sound. While still grounded in their trademark fusion of jazz and drum and bass, this new track showcases the rock influences of fellow Geordie band lots of hands, elevating their sound to new heights.
From the onset of the song, a captivating, horn-driven rhythm sets the stage, leading into a hypnotic dance of pulsating basslines and intricate drum patterns. Notably, the piano takes center stage, adding a layer of harmonic depth that propels the composition forward. Bassist Stanley Woodward, who composed the track and is one half of Knats’ core duo alongside drummer and lyricist King David Ike-Elechi, aimed to infuse elements of European classical music into a shoegaze-inspired framework.
Inspired by Erik Satie’s compositions, Woodward underscores that while they drew harmonic inspiration from classical music, the overall vibe is unmistakably Knats. The duo has been inseparable since meeting at the age of ten, their musical journey blossoming during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 lockdown. Woodward emphasizes the track’s departure from their previous works, describing a deliberate shift towards a more robust, weightier sound throughout the music.
While “Take a Seat on the Settee” may exude a sense of heaviness that Woodward believes may never be replicated, it also opens up a vast, expansive sonic landscape that the band is just beginning to explore. The vibrant horns channel the spirit of Charles Mingus, evoking a transformative experience reminiscent of The Black Saint And The Sinner Lady. The bold drum patterns and pulsating basslines hint at the spirit of rock from the 2000s, while ethereal, distorted vocals nod to shoegaze and dreampop.
Through their music, Knats is carving out a distinct niche in the UK’s burgeoning jazz scene, firmly rooted in their Newcastle origins. According to Woodward, representing their city’s cultural heritage is paramount, with a desire to see more Newcastle bands emerge onto the scene. As they prepare for the release of their upcoming album and a headline tour across the UK, the band also harbors long-term aspirations to nurture musical talent within their community.
“Take a Seat on the Settee” offers a tantalizing glimpse into Knats’ world, blending personal anecdotes with an homage to their hometown. It not only provides a peek into the artists’ lives but also serves as a testament to their roots and influences. Most importantly, the track delivers a compelling listening experience that showcases the band’s evolution and musical prowess.