Down To The Bone Return with Groove-Heavy New Album This Way Forward

Grammy-nominated acid jazz collective Down To The Bone return after a decade with This Way Forward, a groove-driven, jazz-funk and soul-infused album set for release on June 5, 2026 via Dome Records.

Known for their distinctive blend of acid jazz, funk, and dancefloor-ready jazz grooves, the group’s new record spans ten tracks that draw from jazz-funk, soul, and Brazilian rhythms, reinforcing their reputation for finely crafted, high-energy ensemble music.

This Way Forward brings together an expansive lineup of collaborators, bridging past and present contributors. Vocal performances include Hil St Soul, who co-wrote the opening track “Get Up And Dance,” alongside soulful contributions from Natasha Watts and Brazilian vocalist Guida de Palma, adding international flavour and warmth across the record.

At the core of the album is a seasoned instrumental ensemble featuring key figures from the UK jazz and funk scenes. The horn section includes musicians such as Tim Smart, Ryan Jacob (known for work with Bonobo and Alice Russell), and saxophonist James Arben. The rhythm section is anchored by bassist Julian Crampton and drummer Davide Giovannini (associated with Snowboy and Jazztronik), while guitars from Tony Remy, Mark Jaimes, and Gianni Chiarello bring additional texture and funk-driven momentum.

Keys and harmonic direction come from Neil Angilley and Anders Olinder, both deeply embedded in the UK jazz circuit, while percussionist Joe “Bongo” Becket adds rhythmic colour throughout.

Across its tracklist, This Way Forward moves fluidly between dancefloor energy and smooth, melodic jazz-funk. Highlights include the celebratory opener “Get Up And Dance,” the expansive “Sending You Love (Parts 1 and 2),” the Brazilian-tinged “Bird Of Paradise,” and the closing burst of energy on “Umph!”

With its blend of vocal soul, tight horn arrangements, and infectious grooves, This Way Forward reaffirms Down To The Bone’s position as one of the UK’s most consistent and rhythm-focused jazz-funk outfits—returning with renewed energy and a global sonic palette.