The Exu (Downstairs)

Doors 6:45 PM, Music 7:30 PM - 1 set of music
Line-up:
James Mainwaring - Tenor saxophone
Dave Kane - Double bass
Emil Karlsen - Drum kit
About:
Named after a Jean-Michel Basquiat painting and inspired by the artists multi-faceted stylistic approach - known for its raw, expressive, and dynamic qualities, blending street art with neo-expressionism to create bold, thought-provoking work. The Exu make layered, intense, creative & beautiful, thought provoking, genre fluid improvised music.
The trio brazenly draw their musical influences from the worlds of free jazz, grunge, death metal, hip hop, bebop, & experimental music. Kane says ‘we are the sum of our record collections, the films we have seen, the books we have read. It all goes into the mix to make our music.’

Kane & Mainwaring share the compositional duties while young Norwegian drummer Emil Karlsen brings versatile, intricate textures and groove. Mainwaring (of Mercury Prize-nominated Roller Trio) blends fiery and sensitive saxophone approaches with playful edge, while double bassist Dave Kane ignites each performance with cathartic, heartfelt energy that lingers long after the final note.

- +44 20 7254 1143
- Direct venue contact line

- Located at main entrance
- Ticket pickup available 30 minutes before show
- Valid photo ID required
- Advance booking recommended

- Limited street parking available
- Nearby public parking garages
- Recommended to use public transport
- Close to Dalston Kingsland rail station

- Limited wheelchair accessible spaces
- Ground floor entry available
- Call in advance to confirm accessibility needs
- Some standing room options

- No outside food or drinks
- Smart casual attire
- No photography during performances
- Age 18+ for most shows
- Quiet during performances

- Adult-oriented venue
- Generally not recommended for children
- Occasional all-ages matinee performances
- Parental discretion advised