The Brand New Heavies began life in 1985 as an instrumental acid jazz group called Brothers International and changed their name once they signed their first record contract. When any band is still going strong with its original two co-founders for almost forty years, one knows that the band is unique and resonates with music lovers across several generations.
Co-founders Simon Bartholomew and Andrew Levy met at school aged eleven in the 1970s, where they bonded over James Brown’s funk material. Brand New Heavies comes from a liner note off a James Brown single where Brown declared himself the “Minister of New Super Heavy Funk”. From borrowing liners in the eighties, move forward to 2023, where The Brand New Heavies have just released their latest album, Never Stop… The Best of.
With Angela Ricci joining the duo on vocals and strong support from the London Concert Orchestra, an unforgettable sell-out show was expected. With no support, the band was introduced by Jazz FM’s Nigel Williams before the two-part set over two hours began. The set opener, instrumental “Gimme One of Those” from their debut LP, instantly drew in the crowd. The instrumental funk and jazz odyssey continued with “People Get Ready”. Vocalist Angela Ricci proved she was worthy of singing songs previously sung by N’Dea Davenport and Siedah Garrett.
For a band rooted in instrumentals, the lyrical songs had profound messages. The first half closer, “Daybreak”, with the words “We can live together, let’s come together”, resonated more now than in 1990.
With the audience being brought out of their seats in the first half with exciting kinetic inducing songs such as “Jump N’ Move” from “Happy Feet”, the crowd were already standing up, ready to dance for the second set. As well as bringing Brand New Heavies’ most commercial hits, including “Never Stop”, “Sometimes”, “Midnight at the Oasis”, and “You Are the Universe”, the band demonstrated amazing musicology equalling what Miles Davis revealed to the world on Bitches Brew.
From impressive drum solos from drummer Luke Harris wearing a Slash-inspired hat to simultaneous trumpet and saxophone solos, this set was more than a live show; it was a spiritual experience without dogma and chanting. Furthermore, it was a victory for all things old school. Once Levy and Bartholomew ditched the wireless connections and wired up their bass and guitar, nothing stopped them. An unforgettable sell-out was experienced by all in attendance.
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