Knats Honor Hometown with Jazz-Rock Fusion at ‘A Great Day In Newcastle’
Knats, a jazz group hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, have unveiled exciting information about their upcoming album, “A Great Day In Newcastle.” This highly-anticipated record features production by Geordie Greep of black midi, a long-time friend and collaborator of the band, who also makes a guest appearance on one of the tracks. Scheduled for digital release on March 6, 2026, and physical release on March 29, 2026, the album will be available through Gearbox Records, a renowned London-based specialist known for previous works with artists like Abdullah Ibrahim, Elliot Galvin, Liza Lo, and Cahill//Costello.
Formed by childhood pals Stan Woodward on bass and King David-Ike Elechi on drums, Knats has spent the past year captivating audiences across the country. They have served as the live backing band for Greep and RnB artist Eddie Chacon during their respective tours in the UK and EU. Since dropping their debut album last year, the band has garnered widespread acclaim, earning a nomination for Best Breakthrough Artist at the Parliamentary Jazz Awards. Their success has propelled them to sold-out headline shows in various European cities and festival appearances at The Great Escape, We Out Here, and Love Supreme Festival, among others.
In their latest album, Knats blend intricate musical arrangements with elements inspired by rock and experimental sounds, drawing on Olivier Messiaen’s modes for compositional inspiration. The lead single “Wor Jackie” delves into the experiences of North East coal-mining pitmen, with a focus on the legendary Geordie footballer Jackie Milburn, known affectionately as ‘Wor Jackie’, who symbolizes the struggles and triumphs of the working-class community.
Discussing the inspiration behind the track, Stan shared, “‘Wor Jackie’ was born from my exploration of the North East coal mining industry, spurred by conversations with my grandfather about his time as a pitman. I was struck by the sense of camaraderie among the pitmen, despite the hazards they faced. Initially conceived as a solemn march, the song evolved with the inclusion of Cooper Robson’s poignant poetry. The title pays homage to Jackie Milburn, who straddled both the mines and the football field, embodying the spirit of the story we wanted to narrate.”
“A Great Day In Newcastle” serves as a musical tribute to the North East working-class heritage, capturing the challenges, unity, and rich cultural tapestry of the region. To mark the album’s release, Knats will embark on a headline tour across the UK this Spring, culminating in a special performance at Brick Lane Jazz Festival.
The tour dates are as follows:
– April 22 – The Hope & Ruin, Brighton, UK
– April 23 – Voodoo Daddy’s, Norwich, UK
– April 24 – Where Else?, Margate, UK
– April 25 – Brick Lane Jazz Festival, London, UK
– April 27 – Quarry, Liverpool, UK
– April 28 – Band On The Wall, Manchester, UK
– April 29 – Hyde Park Book Club, Leeds, UK
– April 30 – Hare & Hound, Birmingham, UK
– May 1 – The Glad Cafe, Glasgow, UK
– May 2 – Cobalt, Newcastle, UK
Don’t miss the chance to experience Knats’ unique blend of jazz and rock narratives as they bring their musical odyssey to cities across the UK.