Lakuta

Lakuta are a musical collective that hails heritage from Kenya, Tanzania, Ghana, Malaysia, Spain and the UK. Founded by vocalist and percussionist Cicely Taylor in Brighton and fronted by Kenyan-Tanzanian vocalist Siggi Mwasote, the group draw on their background in jazz, funk, soul and world music, to create a modern sound.

The name “Lakuta” is derived from Siggi’s mother tongue and translates from Swahili to mean “to find, meet, share or feel full”. Releasing their debut album titled ‘Brothers & Sisters’ in collaboration with renowned producer Nick Faber on Tru Thoughts, Siggin explains the concept behind the LP; “Brothers and Sisters are what we are, musically and spiritually. This is our gift to the brothers and sisters with whom we share this planet”.

Before joining Lakuta, Siggi grew up singing in choirs and in a jazz trio. While living in London, she also had the opportunity to perform with the revered English National Opera, alongside making punchy dance music records. Cicely’s training in Latin percussion and penchant for vintage funk and rare world music drove her musical passions, and when she met Siggi they formed a choir together, and it wasn’t long before she was invited to join Lakuta.

Influenced by their travels in Africa and South America, they have generated their own unique lyrical style, with a fresh beats-funk-soul twist. The fusion of Benga, Soweto and Latin rhythms is driven by the powerful female-led vocals, which are passionately communicated through the music.

Lakuta’s highly danceable mix of afrobeat, funk and Latino grooves has led them to tour extensively, headlining stages and playing festivals at The Southbank Centre, Glastonbury, Latitude Festival, Funk & Soul Weekender, Brighton Fringe Festival and many more.