SXSW2026 — jazz re:freshed

CELEBRATING A DECADE OF JAZZ RE:FRESHED OUTERNATIONAL SHOWCASES AT SXSW!

The line-up features Zola Marcelle, Amy Gadiaga, Knats, Femi Temowo, Mackwood and Werkha

This year marks the tenth anniversary of grassroots jazz organization Jazz re:freshed partnering with British Underground for a SXSW showcase. For more than two decades, Jazz re:freshed has been a driving force within the UK jazz scene, championing and elevating a diverse range of emerging and forward-thinking talent.

Celebrating a decade of greatness, this year’s SXSW showcase spotlights the very best of the UK jazz scene, bringing together a dynamic lineup of boundary-pushing artists.

Zola Marcelle // 8pm

Zimbabwean-born, London-based artist Zola Marcelle blends jazz, soul, and African traditions in her debut album “HOME”. A researcher and SOAS student, she bridges music and history, preserving Southern African heritage while redefining contemporary sound.

Amy Gadiaga // 9pm

Vocalist, bassist and composer blending the sound of jazz legends with soul influences. Paris-born and based in London, Amys debut EP "All Black Everything" explores empowerment, identity, and genre-defying contemporary jazz.

Knats // 10pm

Newcastle quintet Knats blend sophisticated arrangements with danceable grooves. Since moving to London in 2022, they've played sold-out shows, backed major artists, and signed to Gearbox Records. Their debut album (March 2025) earned huge critical acclaim

Femi Temowo // 11pm

MOBO-nominated guitarist Femi Temowo fuses West African influences with jazz. Mercury Prize-nominated with Soweto Kinch, he's collaborated with George Benson, Amy Winehouse, The Roots, Courtney Pine, and numerous artists across diverse genres.

Macwood // 12am

Drummer-producer Mackwood fuses UK jazz, beatmaking, and dancefloor rhythms. Emerging from collaborations with Col3trane and Blue Lab Beats, his debut album MASTER CHANGES showcases global reach. Recent highlights include Glastonbury, Ronnie Scott's, and his first EU headline tour.

Werkha // 1am

Manchester producer-multi-instrumentalist Werkha (Tom Leah) fuses analogue jazz-funk with UK electronics. Signed to First Word Records, his most recent album 'Unsung Irregular' explores scoliosis and recovery. He has collaborated with Quantic, Eska, and toured with Bonobo, performing at Glastonbury and beyond.