Thursday night in Philadelphia with Kokoroko at Union Transfer 7/31/2025
photos: Izzie Chausse
Last night, London-based Afrobeat collective Kokoroko brought their genre-blending sound to Union Transfer on the first stop of their North America tour. Led by Sheila Maurice-Grey and Onome Edgeworth, the group emerged from London’s jazz scene with a mission to connect young people in the African diaspora to Highlife and Afrobeat. Their 2018 breakout “Abusey Junction” became a viral hit, and their 2022 debut album "Could We Be More" cemented their place in the global jazz scene.
With their latest album, "Tuff Times Never Last," released just last month, Kokoroko arrived in Philly at an energizing moment, ready to perform catalog staples and new favorites. For those who braved last night's severe weather conditions, the show was an absolute banger. The combination of upbeat electronic beats and experimental tracks practically begged for dancing, and the crowd certainly delivered.
The "Tuff Times Never Last" tour continues with stops in Brooklyn, NY, Newport, RI and Washington D.C., before departing the East Coast and heading on to Chicago and beyond.
With their latest album, "Tuff Times Never Last," released just last month, Kokoroko arrived in Philly at an energizing moment, ready to perform catalog staples and new favorites. For those who braved last night's severe weather conditions, the show was an absolute banger. The combination of upbeat electronic beats and experimental tracks practically begged for dancing, and the crowd certainly delivered.
The "Tuff Times Never Last" tour continues with stops in Brooklyn, NY, Newport, RI and Washington D.C., before departing the East Coast and heading on to Chicago and beyond.
