Laura Zakian 'Something Old, Something New'

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Last Show: Sunday 12 th May 2019

PizzaExpress Jazz Club (Soho)

In 'Something Old, Something New', Laura Zakian effortlessly ranges from elastic swing to atmospheric and haunting ballads. Laura re-imagines classic Frank Sinatra repertoire such as Makin’ Whoopee and I Thought About You, weaving the melodies through the backing of an accomplished quartet. For this set she will also unveil some new “country jazz” numbers of her own, penned with eclectic composer Martin Pyne.  

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“Zakian swings effortlessly, combines a lightness of touch with a deep reservoir of power and control”

Jazzwise

Jazz vocalist Laura Zakian will debut some of her first self-penned songs at PizzaExpress Jazz Club. The showcase marks Laura’s welcome return to performing after a year away and will also feature her classic repertoire from lesser known Frank Sinatra songbook. 

Laura has collaborated with prolific and eclectic composer and percussionist Martin Pyne on the new songs, which they term “country jazz”. Laura has penned the words to some of Martin’s airy and haunting melodies written specially for the project.

A deep connection with the emotional meaning of songs has always underpinned Laura’s assured and sensitive interpretations of the American songbook and classic pop, and she has drawn on this for her own lyrics. In a set entitled: Something Old, Something New, Laura will also perform classic repertoire of songs sung by Frank Sinatra. Laura will be accompanied Steve Lodder on Piano, Paul Bartholomew on Baritone Sax, Nic France on Drums and Andy Hamill on Bass

Laura studied in New York with Nancy Marano from the Manhatten School of Music, then began her jazz career in Italy. Based in London, she has four albums to her name, most recently Songs for Modern Lovers. Inspired by the iconic Frank Sinatra album Songs for Swinging Lovers, fresh arrangements of the original tracks are complemented by jazz interpretations of contemporary tunes. She has combined her artistic career with teaching aspiring vocalists at Goldsmiths College, London, and elsewhere. 

www.laurazakian.com

Band Lineup

Laura Zakian (vocals)

Steve Lodder (piano)

Paul Bartholomew (baritone sax)

Nic France (drums)

Andy Hamill  (bass)