Entertainment

Review of Leroy Jones Quintet at Pizza Express Jazz Club

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By Eboni Addoh

Pizza express is not a place I would equate with a jazz venue; however I was pleasantly surprised as I was lead down small spiral stairs to an appealing basement venue.  Its low ceiling, dark interior coupled with atmospheric mood lighting, bar and small stage created a cool but intimate space reminiscent of ‘old skool’ jazz/blues venues. I was even more surprised to learn that this venue; which I’ve walked passed on more than one occasion, has played host to numerous artists and bands over 45 years!

We were lead through the venue which was crammed rather tightly with tables, to a small booth style seating tucked away in the far corner under a small mirrored arch. My first impression was how cosy and intimate it looked with partial cushioned seating;  great if you were on a date but  not so ideal if you wanted a good view of the stage as there were two large pillars adjacent to the stage; one of which was positioned by our seats.

Fortunately we chose the seating closes to the stage so I was at least able to see a majority of the performance as the band positioned themselves centre/centre left. My companions view was however obscured by the huge pillar and as such she had to lean forward in her chair throughout the performance in order to catch a glimpse of the stage.

There was a nice dynamic in the audience, with a mix of young and old. Some were obvious jazz connoisseurs and musicians showing their appreciation for the music with elated cheers. Others like myself; were just lovers of good music out for a different relaxing evening. I love the vibe and experience of seeing a live performance and the passion that these musicians have for their art

The Music was translated via a captivating quintet consisting of Leroy Jones leading on trumpet, Dave Archer on electric guitar, Fergus Ireland on bass, Pedro Segundo on drums/percussion and Katja Toivola trombone. The band harmonised effortlessly through a range of mid and up-tempo songs, each musician having solo opportunities throughout the set to showcase their amazing talents.  I particularly enjoyed the drummer who playfully teased the crowd with his skilful mix and blend of percussion, tapping drumming and threw in tambourines for good measure. I had my eyes closed from time to time drawn into the music, isolating the rhythms of the different instruments whilst allowing my mind to transport me into a New Orleans setting.

As a child I attempted and failed miserably in trying to learn the trombone. To me it was a large heavy instrument that unlike the saxophone or trumpet could only produce coarse dense sounds. Therefore it was amazing to hear the beautiful notes resonating from this cumbersome instrument.

They put on a fantastic exhilarating set which was coupled with bluesy vocals, closing aptly with a crowd pleasing rendition of ‘When the Saints’.

The evening was only marred by the service and food which was very disappointing. Our poor dining experience culminated in us being presented with a bill for well over £100 (the waiter had given us the wrong bill).

Overall a quaint venue for an enjoyable evening of jazz, as such I would come back to Soho Jazz club; but definitely not for the dining experience.

Why not experience the music of Leroy Jones yourself? Click the link for his tour dates here: https://onin.london/leroy-jones-quintet/