Jembaa Groove

Jembaa Groove

Jembaa Groove is a Berlin-based jazz group active since 2020. It is founded by bassist and composer Yannick Nolting and singer-percussionist Eric Owusu.

Style and formation

The group develops its music from the shared musical background of its two founders, who spend several months writing original material after meeting. Their sound is often described as Afro-Soul and draws on their different origins and musical identities. Jembaa Groove forms as a seven-piece band, bringing together musicians from Berlin’s underground scene.

Musical character

The group combines contemporary Berlin sounds with traditional influences from West Africa, including Ghana and Mali. Its aesthetic also takes cues from soul music of the 1960s and 1970s, while avoiding heavily commercial or overproduced arrangements.