Fri 21 Nov 2025
8:00pm
Kokoroko
This event is strictly 18+
Kokoroko are one of the brightest lights in London’s ever-evolving jazz scene - their music a powerful mix of reclamation, celebration, and statement. Rooted in Afrobeat traditions and shaped by a new generation’s energy, their sound is groove-driven, joyful, and emotionally rich - a distinct product of the city’s diasporic soul.
Formed in 2014 and led by trumpeter Sheila Maurice-Grey, the seven-piece outfit emerged from the fertile South London scene that birthed Yussef Dayes, Nubya Garcia, and Ezra Collective - artists reshaping jazz through the lens of identity. Kokoroko took their own path, channelling the legacy of Fela Kuti, Tony Allen, and West African highlife into music made equally for the dancefloor and the stage. Their breakout 2019 single, “Abusey Junction,” released via Gilles Peterson’s Brownswood Recordings, became a defining anthem of the UK jazz renaissance - slow-burning, tender, and deeply moving.
Now, they return with Tuff Times Never Last - a rhythm-rich second album that deepens their Afro-jazz roots while venturing into new sonic territory. Written with the live show in mind, it captures their desire to move, uplift, and celebrate joy in hard times. “What do we want our next few years to feel like?” they asked. The answer is vibrant, playful, and full of intent.
This November, Kokoroko bring that radiant energy to the Forum. Their music moves people - emotionally, spiritually, and physically. And this tour brings that feeling to our part of the world.
You must be 18 years or over to attend this event.
Valid Proof of Age photo ID is required by all patrons (Australian Driver’s License, Victorian Learners Permit, Passport, Proof of Age Card, Keypass). Photocopies and photos of ID will not be accepted.
Conditions of Entry:
To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, please be aware of Forum Melbourne's Conditions of Entry here.
*Please note, steel cap shoes are not permitted to be worn inside the venue.
Mobile/Emailed Tickets: Download your tickets before you arrive. For the best experience we recommend downloading the Ticketek App to your phone.
Booth Ticket Holders: Please go to the Box Office on arrival at the venue to collect your wristband and our staff will then direct you to your booth. Note that a General Admission ticket plus a Booth Upgrade ticket must be purchased and presented together for booth access.
Location: Forum Melbourne is located at 154 Flinders Street, Melbourne 3000.
Parking: Discounted parking rates are available at some nearby Wilson Car Parks. More info here.
Accessibility: Forum Melbourne is committed to making performances accessible to the widest possible audience. For further information about accessibility call 1300 11 10 11 and select option 2 for our accessibility customer service line, or you can find more info here.
Purchasing Tickets: Only purchase your tickets from our official ticketing partner, Ticketek and not from any unauthorised or secondary ticket sellers, as they do not guarantee access to the venue.
Cloakroom: A cloakroom is available upstairs on the Mezzanine level. The cost for cloaking is $5, which includes up to 3 items.
Bag checks: Due to security requirements, you will be required to show the contents of your bag to venue staff. Prohibited items will not be allowed into the venue and may be confiscated or entry may be refused.
Cameras: Phone cameras and small point and shoot cameras are permitted. No larger cameras or cameras with detachable lenses are permitted. No flash photography.
This event is strictly 18+
Fri 21 Nov 2025
8:00pm