Release date: 8 November 2024

Lionel Loueke Guitar, Vocals

Dave Holland Acoustic Bass

In a world where connection often feels elusive, jazz legends Lionel Loueke and Dave Holland offer a remedy with their upcoming album, United. This highly anticipated release transcends mere collaboration; it embodies a soulful conversation between two masters from distinct backgrounds, merging their unique voices into something beautifully transcendent.

What began as an impromptu moment during a soundcheck has blossomed into an album that reflects the spirit of two musicians dedicated to pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons. Holland recalls, “It was one of those rare moments where everything clicked. Lionel and I were improvising, and suddenly it wasn’t just sound—it was something bigger. I turned to him and said, ‘We have to do this.’ The result is United.”

This album is a profound testament to true collaboration, beautifully fusing Loueke’s rich West African roots with Holland’s profound influence on modern jazz. Loueke shares, “Recording with Dave has been a dream. I’ve always looked up to him, and creating this album together has been an incredible journey. The music we’ve made feels like the culmination of everything we’ve experienced individually, coming together in this moment.”

The title United encapsulates the heartbeat of the album. Loueke elaborates, “We may come from different parts of the world, but through music, we find a place where we are truly connected. This album represents that shared space where love, struggle, and hope intersect.”

At a time when division often dominates the narrative, United serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty that can be achieved through unity. “This album is about human connection,” Holland adds. “In a fragmented world, United is our statement that there is beauty in collaboration, in listening, and in being present with one another.”

The album also acts as a call to action. “Right now, the world needs unity more than ever,” Holland emphasises. “We’re all part of the same human family, and this album is our way of expressing that shared responsibility.” Loueke echoes this sentiment, highlighting the deeper message: “Music is what we do, but it’s not who we are. Who we are is about listening, about being open to one another. That’s what United is really about—a collective effort to understand, to connect, and to move forward together.”

Scheduled for release on 8th November 2024, United promises to be a landmark recording for anyone who believes in the power of music to bring us closer together. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when two artists, united by their craft and humanity, create something truly special.