Mercury Prize Winning Drummer Femi Koleoso and Legendary DJ Charlie Dark MBE Join Forces at SOUND Cafe inside The Cumberland Hotel London

Iconic central London destination, The Cumberland Hotel London, announces today that Mercury Prize-winning drummer Femi Koleoso, known for his acclaimed roles in Ezra Collective and Gorillaz, will share the stage with the renowned DJ and cultural commentator Charlie Dark MBE for an evening of conversation and eclectic sounds.Together, they will discuss music, art, and culture, delving into Koleoso’s remarkable journey to becoming one of Britain’s most celebrated artists.

The event will take place on Friday 27th October with tickets now on sale via Fever. Proceeds will be donated to music charity Kinetika Bloco, of which Koleoso is a successful alumni. Kinetika Bloco is passionate about fighting back against the decline of music teaching in schools, with its leaders believing that learning to play and create music can improve lives in Britain’s deprived communities. 

Femi Koleoso, celebrated for his pioneering presence in Afro-beat and hip-hop-infused jazz, has recently garnered accolades including the Mercury Prize and a stellar Glastonbury performance. Attendees will be treated to an intimate exploration of the artist’s creative influences and motivations – and an insight into Ezra Collective’s upcoming, sold-out Royal Albert Hall performance.

Industry icon Charlie Dark MBE will join Koleoso on stage to delve deeper into the drummer’s experiences as a musician, discuss industry insights, and his mission to empower audiences by breaking barriers and fostering resilience.

Following the conversation, Charlie Dark will hit the decks for an evening of great music and flowing drinks, with a cocktail menu curated by Femi himself. Dark covers a range of genres from Dub to Disco, House to Funk and Soul Reggae to African beats; but always with something in common; energy and eclecticism. With an additional passion for health and wellbeing Dark was recently awarded an MBE for his commitment to the running and young people after setting up his London based running club ‘Run Dem Crew’.

The doors will open at 7pm with Femi Koleoso and Charlie Dark’s talk commencing at 8.30pm within SOUND Cafe at The Cumberland. Following the talk, Dark will begin his DJ set from 10.15pm to 12am. 

When: Friday 27th October 7pm

Where: SOUND Cafe at The Cumberland Hotel, Great Cumberland Pl, London W1H 7DL

Tickets: £5, available to purchase here.