Tongue Fu

In times of political turmoil, there is a long tradition of poets raising their voice in protest. Bringing together the combined talents of leading poets, rappers, singers and musicians, writer, musician and founder Chris Redmond presents an album for politically chaotic times. Boat Building is a musical and poetic snapshot of the last three tumultuous years seen through the eyes of a cast of collaborators including rapper/producer Dizraeli, multiple slam champion Vanessa Kisuule, NYC singer and activist AMYRA and Benin City frontman, Joshua Idehen. Writing in response to events such as the Black Lives Matter movement, Grenfell Tower, the Refugee Crisis and the Climate Crisis against the backdrop of Brexit and Trump’s America, it is an attempt to claim back some agency, some hope and solidarity. Developed through a series of writing and improvisation sessions, then produced by Redmond and fellow founder/ bassist, Riaan Vosloo (Nostalgia 77, Jamie Cullum), the music is a cinematic fusion of contemporary jazz, fuzzy ambience and synth-hop, courtesy of Vosloo, keys player, Arthur Lea and drummer, Patrick Davey. Guests include vocalists Hannah Williams (Jay Z’s 4:44) and Victoria Klewin, Matt Brown - percussion and Matthew Bourne (Electric Dr M) - strings. Boat Building is mastered by Grammy Award winning, Lewis Hopkin whose credits include London Grammar, Bonobo and Dizzee Rascal.