Remembering Blossom Dearie (2018-05-17)

Zoe Francis is a young generation singer who has a knack of choosing the more unusual classic songs into which she can weave new magic. ‘a singer to listen out for. She communicates a love and understanding of classic American song with the lightest of touches. A classy set.’ The Guardian

Choosing to remember Blossom Dearie, the legendary American pianist/singer who spent a lot of time in the fifties and sixties in London and Paris, is a masterstroke, for she too had an incredible ear for the less well trodden. A well-loved regular at Ronnie Scott’s Blossom enjoyed the respect of great musicians such as bassist Jeff Clyne and drummer Johnny Butts.

Zoe makes no attempt to copy Blossom’s unique vocal sound. Her harmonic knowledge, immaculate articulation, and ‘grip’ on time – an absolute essential for jazz musicians – wins her the admiration of her three brilliant colleagues.

Her loving interpretation of rare gems is steeped in musicality and, frequently, wit. A special singer indeed.

She will be singing some of Blossom’s most popular songs including work by Cy Coleman, the prolific writing duo Comden and Green and famously Dave Frishbergs I’m Hip, Peel Me A Grape and My Attorney Bernie. This gig sold out at Ronnie Scott’s in January – don’t miss this chance to catch it in Highgate!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1N-8TQClg0

“There is a quality in Zoe Francis’s work that suggests something of the classic singers of the past, yet there is no obvious attempt to be anyone but herself, with an appealing freshness as well as technical command that make her shows well worth seeking out. . . .”, London Jazz News

‘With his unique, mellow guitar sound and his ability to spin a seemingly effortless stream of melody, Jim Mullen never fails to keep your ears fully occupied.’ The Guardian

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