A totally thrilling ride. The Jazz Mann Tomorrows Warriors have changed the musical landscape of Britain. Its as simple as that. Cerys Matthews, Artist & Broadcaster Sisters are doing it for themselves! Were super-thrilled to be welcoming this all-female band, the latest explosive new-generation ensemble to emerge from Tomorrows Warriors, the legendary music education organisation that brought us Nubya Garcia, Shabaka Hutchings and Ezra Collective. Ankora is a London based eight-piece composed of Mali Sheard (alto sax), Keira Chakraborty (flute), Hannah Clifton (trumpet), Klara Devlin (trumpet), Miranda Radford (drums), Tami Adebanjo (guitar), Kezia Abuoma (piano) and Holly Reinhardt (bass). Meeting at the renowned Warriors sessions, these ambitious young musicians were selected to perform in the flagship development ensemble Tomorrows Warriors Frontline, mentored by acclaimed drummer and composer, Romarna Campbell. Ankora is the exciting new step that the ensemble is taking as they journey deeper into the London jazz scene and beyond. Its a real coup to bring these stars-in-waiting, and their energy, exuberance and phenomenal talent to Wolverhampton as this latest chapter begins. The name Ankora is derived from the Latin word for anchor (ancora), a symbol of groundedness, hope and a connection to roots, a message that spreads through their repertoire of both originals and covers of powerful jazz tunes. The name links to an alternative meaning in Italian of again, marking the momentum of their rebirth as they continue their musical and artistic journey. Their influences include the legacies of Freddie Hubbard, Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson and Wayne Shorter whilst branching out to the more contemporary mastery of Esperanza Spalding, Geri Allen, Jeff Tain Watts and Kenny Kirkland. The ensemble takes inspiration from the spark and power of these jazz legends compositionally and stylistically. Collectively, the members of Ankora have already made their mark on the jazz scene through performances at a mix of festivals and venues including Love Supreme Jazz Festival, We Out Here, Dizzys Jazz Club (NYC), The Vortex, Brick Lane Jazz Festival and The Jazz Caf. Ready for more, the unique, powerful voice of this ensemble is excited to embrace the wonder and diversity of the jazz scene.