Début: respair, ‘hypnotic vocal jazz’

New artists, emerging talent, diverse voices and brilliant musicians: Début is our monthly evening devoted to spotlighting some of the best original music across a host of genres encompassing jazz, funk, soul, folk and pop (as well as everything in between). Our art deco basement, known for its brilliant acoustics and intimate atmosphere, is proud to showcase fine talents at affordable ticket prices – perfect for a great night out in the West End.

respair is a new London-based jazz-electronic quartet, palpably hypnotic and cinematic. Jazz sensibilities, classical training, emotive vocals and an eclectic, soulful palette. Sound interwoven with groove and lyrics laden with profound meaning. Arresting, poignant stories that evoke distinct pasts and serene melodies that both envelop and free you, sending you off towards an odyssey-like horizon, healing you like some mystical revelation.

respair’s live performance combines beautiful original songs with moments of fierce jazz improvisation, electronic textures with intimate acoustic sounds – taking the audience on a journey to psychedelic beautiful fragile words.

Their first album is coming out in the 2nd half of 2024!

“I feel like I’ve walked into a dimly lit, smoke-swirled underground club, and you have been playing for a couple of hours, and you’re only just getting started. Such a rich, thick atmosphere fills the air, one that is intoxicating and enchanting. The playing, the vocals, the melodies, it’s all fantastic.” – Max Pilley, Guardian

“The vocals are deeply emotional and impeccably interpreted. The instrumental section is clean and also well played, reaching the genre with sophistication” – Visual Atelier 8

“Quality performance and amazing atmosphere” – Secret Eclectic