Two years ago, to the day, we launched our jazz cabaret series at Piano Smithfield, featuring James Hudson performing the music of the great Nat King Cole. The positive audience reaction, combined with outstanding media reviews, were so outstanding it’s no surprise James solo career continues to thrive.
We are especially pleased he accepted our invitation to return, with his trio to play a further selection of the iconic songs of American jazz icon, Nat King Cole.
Nat King Cole was an American vocalist and jazz pianist who recorded over one hundred songs that became hits in the pop charts. His trio was the model for small jazz ensembles that followed and his distinctive piano, guitar format we are following in this concert.
James released his debut album ‘TOMORROW’ to great acclaim. The album was described as “polished and exuberant” by London Jazz News and was Featured as ‘Album of the Week’ on Jazz FM. He has performed to sold-out crowds not only at Piano Smithfield but also at Crazy Coqs, Ronnie Scott’s, Pizza Express Dean St, Hôtel de Paris (Monte Carlo), London’s Ritz Hotel and other top venues across the UK & Europe.
Joining James will be in-demand guitarist and musical director,
Nick Fitch, with the sensational Rob Barron on piano and the brilliant Joe Pettitt on bass.
Here’s a flavour of what the media had to say about James Hudson previous visit to Piano Smithfield with the music of Nat King Cole
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A packed audience sat in awe as James Hudson - a jazz singer whose star is very much in the ascendancy - belted out a posse of Nat King Cole songs. For the most part, delicious love songs - deliciously delivered - that were hits for the great man in the 1950s and 1960s. Great music never ages.
Tall and dapper, Hudson has a commanding presence on stage. But it’s his voice that demands attention. It’s as crystal clear as ice and does full justice to the string of songs that made Nat King Cole a living legend despite dying at the tender age of 45. Uncomplicated, yes, but Hudson Is magical on the ear. Nat would be proud of the young songster who is an alumni of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra.
Autumn Leaves - a glorious love song - was as beautiful as Straighten Up And Fly Right (a song about a monkey and buzzard) was quirky. Unforgettable was simply unforgettable (tenderly delivered) while Mona Lisa was rapturously received. Let There Be Love was sung from the heart - and pulled massively at heart strings. Tears formed even if they did not drop. Passions surged. |
Please join us at Piano Smithfield to hear James Hudson performing timeless jazz standards from Nat’s Songbook, including “Smile”, “L-O-V-E”, “Route 66”, “Unforgettable” and many more.
Here’s some clips from their show at Crazy Coqs!
“James Hudson’s voice shows real class and consistency with his pure tone” - London Jazz News
“Following in the footsteps of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Mel Tormé - James Hudson doesn't try to step into their shoes but remains true to himself and the song.” - Bebop Spoken Here
Doors 6.45pm
Music 8pm
Tickets £25 plus £1.50 booking fee.