Knats

Led by lifelong friends Stan Woodward (bass) and King David Ike-Elechi (drums), Knats is rapidly becoming a distinctive force in contemporary jazz, earning critical acclaim for their signature “Geordie Jazz” sound.

Their music blends high-energy jazz fusion with drum ‘n’ bass, punk intensity, electronic influences, and danceable grooves with “jaw-dropping brilliance” (Jazzwise). Moving to London in 2022, Stan and King enrolled at Trinity Laban on the BMus Jazz course. From performing at the BBC Proms to playing a sold-out Jazz Re:freshed headliner, Knats took London by storm, proudly showcasing their Newcastle jazz style and spotlighting themes of working-class experiences and regional pride. The UK-based band also features trumpeter Ferg Kilsby alongside members Sandro Shargorodsky (keys), George Johnson (tenor sax), and Cooper Robson (vocals).

In 2024, the band signed to Gearbox Records. They supported R&B legend Eddie Chacon on his UK tour and eclectic soloist Geordie Greep on his UK & Europe tour. Knats’ first single Tortuga (For Me Ma) was written by Stan for his mother, reflecting on his admiration for the strength and sacrifices of single mothers. In spring 2025, they released their self-titled debut album Knats, recorded at Damon Albarn’s Studio 13, which gained praise from Jazzwise, The Guardian, and Rolling Stone Japan.

The band toured the UK in their first headline tour the same year and were shortlisted for the Jazz Newcomer of the Year Parliamentary Jazz Awards. Starting 2026 with a sold-out headline set at 100 Club London, the band later played at SXSW Festival as part of the Jazz Re:freshed Outernational Showcase. Knats recently announced their headline UK tour, including performances at the Brick Lane Jazz Festival, and their second studio album A Great Day in Newcastle, produced by Geordie Greep.