Written by The Royal Albert Hall has announced the eagerly awaited second season of its Late Night Jazz series for 2024. There is no doubt that the Royal Albert Hall stands as a major venue of cultural significance, having hosted an illustrious array of figures across its 152-year history, from Winston Churchill to The Beatles. Beyond its star-studded events, it has served as a catalyst for social change, from Suffragette rallies to Stonewall concerts. While its eccentric past includes unconventional uses like séances and bodybuilding contests, the Hall remains a beacon of artistic diversity, hosting 400 events annually spanning music, theatre, dance, and sport with the BBC Proms series as one of it’s mainstay events.
Building on the success of the inaugural season, which saw sold-out performances and critical acclaim, the second season promises to deliver another round of unforgettable jazz experiences. Scheduled to take place in the intimate setting of the 200-capacity Elgar Room, these events will feature a diverse lineup of both established and emerging artists, showcasing a wide range of musical styles, from neo-soul to minimalist jazz and 1930s swing.
The season kicks off on Thursday, April 25th, with an electrifying performance titled “Women’s Words, Sisters’ Stories” by Rwandan-born Belgian jazz vocalist Ineza and the Alex Webb Trio. I had the pleasure of seeing Ineza last week at jazzahead in Bremen and have no problem saying to our London based readers that this concert is a “must see”.
Ineza and the Alex Webb Trio
In this concert, Ineza and the band will explore the repertoire of legendary female songstresses such as Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, and Betty Carter, along with contemporary jazz songs by artists like Jazzmeia Horn and Cecile McLorin Salvant. Ineza, a recipient of the prestigious artist development program LEAP, promises to deliver a soul-stirring performance that celebrates the rich legacy of women in jazz.
In May, the series welcomes back the acclaimed singer Plumm on Thursday, May 9th. Hailed as one of London’s most creative and exciting vocalists, Plumm boasts a proud Welsh heritage and a string of impressive accolades. Her music, characterized by its soulful melodies and captivating lyrics, has earned her recognition at major festivals and on international platforms such as Apple TV and AMC+. Plumm’s return to the Elgar Room is sure to be a highlight of the season, showcasing her unique blend of talent and charisma.
Later in the month, on Thursday, May 30th, audiences will have the opportunity to experience the multi-award-winning trumpeter Henry Spencer and his band as they showcase tracks from their newly released album “The Defector.” With influences ranging from jazz to rock and minimalism, Spencer’s music promises to deliver a dynamic and emotionally charged performance that captivates audiences and pushes the boundaries of traditional jazz.
Reflecting on the success of the Late Night Jazz series, Matt Todd, Director of Programming at the Royal Albert Hall, expressed pride in the series’ legacy of celebrating and nurturing emerging talent. Since its inception in 2010, the series has provided a platform for both established artists and rising stars, contributing to the vibrant jazz scene in London and beyond. Todd highlights the achievements of past alumni and looks forward to witnessing the next generation of talent take the stage in the upcoming season.
Tara Minton
The season continues into June with three additional events, featuring soul singer Raelle, Australian harpist and vocalist Tara Minton, and the Royal College of Music Junior Department Jazz Ensemble. These performances promise to offer a diverse range of musical experiences, from soulful vocals to contemporary jazz compositions and swing classics from the 1930s. With a lineup that celebrates the richness and diversity of jazz music, the second season of the Late Night Jazz series is set to be an unforgettable journey through the world of jazz.
The full line-up and concert details are listed below. Tickets for all upcoming Late Night Jazz shows are now available from the Royal Albert Hall website.
Late Night Jazz: Ineza and the Alex Webb Trio
Elgar Room
Thu 25 Apr, 9:30pm
Tickets: £13 – £22
Late Night Jazz: Plumm
Elgar Room
Thu 9 May, 9:30pm
Tickets: £13 – £22
Late Night Jazz: Henry Spencer
Elgar Room
Thu 30 May, 9:30pm
Tickets: £13 – £22
Late Night Jazz: Raelle
Elgar Room
Thu 6 Jun, 9:30pm
Tickets: £13 – £22
Relaxed Late Night Jazz: Tara Minton
Elgar Room
Thu 20 Jun, 9:45pm
Tickets: £2 – £12
Late Night Jazz: Royal College of Music Junior Department Jazz Ensemble
Elgar Room
Thu 27 Jun, 9:30pm
Tickets: £13 – £22
Last modified: April 22, 2024
