Later this month Leftfoot and THSH Jazzlines are bringing the smooth sound of Alfa Mist to the Hare and Hounds in Kings Heath as part of their UK Jazz Season. Leftfoot have legendary status in the Second city, pioneering the underground music scene since 2000. In the last few months they have graced us with the likes of Hunee and Midland, both huge names in the house and techno world. They are also not disappointing us with what’s to come as the year reaches a conclusion, with events featuring Kamaal Williams, Ezra Collective and of course, Alfa Mist. It would be hard to think of a better venue to bring the soul-warming jazz of Alfa Mist than the Hare and Hounds. Having stood in its present form since 1907, there is a rich history surrounding the grade II listed establishment. In recent years it has become a Mecca for lovers of live music, good food and great local beers. Following the closure of many venues located around the city, the Hare has become one of the final frontiers of underground music in an intimate, welcoming setting.
Alfa Mist grew up in Newham, East London, which has produced some of the UK’s finest grime talents including Ghetts and Kano so it is no surprise that his musical journey began producing grime and hip hop beats. It was later on when a passion for jazz developed, taking inspiration from the renowned American jazz trumpeter Miles Davis. Mist taught himself to play the piano and began experimenting with sampling. Released independently in 2015, Nocturne EP showcased the extent of his skill. The EP featured an array of impressive features including Tom Misch, Jordan Rakei and Barney Artist, all of whom form the collective ‘Are We Live’. There is a distinctive feel surrounding each track on the EP, provoking imagery of dark, late nights.
More recently, Mist turned his attention further towards creating jazzier tracks, releasing the instrumental-lead album Antiphon. The album ‘blends melancholy jazz harmony with alternative hip-hop and soul’. This year Mist has collaborated with drummer Yussef Dayes and guitarist Mansur Brown (both of whom also feature at the Hare as part of Leftfoot’s UK Jazz Season), as well as recently releasing 7th October (Epilogue). The epilogue further explores and extends the track 7th October from the Antiphon album. November 21st will not be one to miss, and make sure to stay tuned for future events.
Luke Davies
