Anthony Strong: ‘And Then We Kiss…’

Anthony Strong is set to release the sumptuous ‘And Then We Kiss …’, with his long-standing quartet and a full string orchestra.

Strong’s new album combines his versions of the Great American Songbook (think Some Enchanted Evening and Love For Sale) with a touch of pop in the shape of a bossa If You Leave Me Now. The latter features a delightful duet with Pamina Beroff.

One of the strengths (pardon the pun) of this album is the fabulous string arrangements by the uber-talented Callum Au. It turns these tunes into a Sinatra-esque collection that enhances Strong’s voice.

Strong (voice, piano, arranger) is joined on And Then We Kiss … by Nick Fitch (guitar), Joel Barford (drums), Spencer Brown (bass), Brandon Allen (tenor sax) and Pamina Beroff (guest vocals). Strings are a wonderful addition, as orchestrated by Au and led by violinist Tom Kemp.

One particularly stunning arrangement is the whimsical It’s Not Unusual, which begins with the quartet, Strong’s voice and Allen’s always-lyrical sax.

Anthony Strong has done a great job on these arrangements, combining them with Au’s string orchestrations, great jazz and some of the most romantic songs there are. I’m looking forward to seeing what he brings with his trio to the Cowshed Jazz Club on 25 September.

‘And Then We Kiss…’ is out on Guaranteed! Records from 31 July 2026