Since finding widespread critical support from Jamie Cullum, Gilles Peterson and Jazz FM for their debut record 'From The Mabgate Basement', MABGATE have been through a period of transformation. Honing in on a sound inspired by analogue 70s funk & soul, angular jazz and worldwide groove music, the group formerly known as 'The Mabgate Organ Trio' have developed and rebranded, showcasing their new sound in a dream team-up with Leeds-based soul singer August Charles on 'Tell It How I See It'.
Following the success of lead single 'I Asked', which found support from BBC Radio 6, BBC Introducing, Jazz FM and more, 'Tell It How I See It' further expands the groups dynamic sound. Breakout Yorkshire soul star August Charles joins the trio for an emotive vocal performance that plays off the mixture of angular riffs and latin-inspired harmony, exploring complex emotions around what he calls a "situationship".
The forthcoming EP 'MABGATE' is the first project written and recorded outside of the confines of lockdown, widening its scope and creative process and leading to the band shedding the confines of being an 'organ trio'. It's a celebration of creative freedom with a cinematic approach to songwriting, contrasting euphoric melodies against tense harmony, angular riffs and expertly crafted, crunching grooves. Across the project, the band invite contributors from the Leeds community, including saxophonist Alex Fisher and bass clarinetist Joel Stedman (Ancient Infinity Orchestra).
A part of Leeds' vibrant jazz scene, MABGATE were formed against the backdrop of the pandemic, coming together whilst living in a converted pub that became a hub for music creation. The trio consists of drummer Richard Moulton, organist/pianist Nico Widdowson and guitarist/producer Ed Allen. With nods to BADBADNOTGOOD's progressive jazz, Khruangbin and Vieux Farka Toure's desert blues, and Surprise Chef's DIY jazz-funk, the trio have supported Binker & Moses, Vels Trio and Steam Down.
'MABGATE' will be released on 19th May via Bridge the Gap.
