BRICK LANE JAZZ FESTIVAL 26 FRIDAY REVIEW

This week’s show is a reflection on Friday at the Brick Lane Jazz Festival a snapshot of a scene that continues to evolve, blending jazz, soul, broken beat and club sounds into something genuinely forward facing. The live element is key. anaiis alongside Grupo Cosmo captures that improvisational spirit.

A Friday that felt very special.

I also made it down to the Music Is Black Exhibition at V&A East and honestly, I was blown away by the quality of the content. A powerful and important exhibition that really captures the depth and influence of Black music and culture. I picked up the accompanying book as well and looking forward to spending time with that over the summer.

Book Recommendation

If you’re looking for something reflective to sit alongside the music, I’d really recommend The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest.
The book explores the idea that the biggest obstacles we face are often internal patterns, habits, and ways of thinking that hold us back without us always realising. Rather than avoiding those challenges, Wiest reframes them as something to work through a process of self-awareness, accountability, and growth.

It’s written in a very accessible, reflective style something you can dip in and out of but it still carries depth.

There’s a strong focus on emotional intelligence, resilience, and learning how to shift your mindset in a way that feels practical, not abstract.

What makes it resonate is that it doesn’t promise quick fixes. It’s more about understanding yourself better and gradually making changes that feel sustainable.

Feels like a good companion to moments of pause whether that’s after a long day, on a journey, or in between listening sessions.