Innovative saxophonist, composer and bandleader Camilla George has had an incredible 2022. Her sound blends luscious modern jazz with Afrobeat and the influences of funk, hip-hop and R&B. The sonically magnificent ‘Abasi Isang’ lets contrasting melodies collide, while ‘Ekpe’ really puts her own saxophone virtuosity at the centre of a brass-heavy arrangement. She scattered incredible singles like these throughout the year, before dropping her amazing third album Ibio-Ibio at the end of September. It’s a celebration of her Nigerian heritage and the Ibibio people. “The Ibibio people are regarded as the most ancient of all ethnic groups in Nigeria and the story of how their world began is so little known and its meaning is so inspirational.” She has truly carved an identity and put herself at the forefront of the London jazz scene, so be sure to catch Camilla George live in 2023. -Dan Peeke