Ashley Henry: Live at Ronnie Scott’s

With two sold-out shows at Ronnie Scott’s as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival, remarkable, engaging pianist and vocalist Ashley Henry brought his 2024 album ‘Who We Are’ to life.

It’s clear from the outset that this quartet is used to playing together, there was a real communication across the stand as Henry himself extended solos and directed the others. He was joined by Johnny Woodham (trumpet), David Mrakpor (bass) and Peter Hill (drums). All of these are in-demand musicians with their own projects and when they come together they are both impressive individuals and a collective, collaborative ensemble.

And Henry’s tunes are great. That blend of jazz, soul and hip-hop makes for a brilliant setting that combines both his virtuosic piano (and Rhodes keyboard) and sonorous voice. Whether it was the expressive Synchronicity, the title track Who We Are or the gorgeous I Still Believe from his earlier album Beautiful Vinyl Hunter, these are dynamic songs that the Ronnie Scott’s audience loved.

Many of the tunes began with Henry’s solo piano improvisations that set the scene for the ensemble joining in. Woodham’s use of trumpet is sparing as backing, until it comes time for his own solos, which are a delight, using mutes and electronics to great effect.

Bass lines from Mrakpor are subtle and expressive: it’s clear to see why one of his other projects - Blue Lab Beats - has seen such success. Meanwhile, the drums of Peter Hill are similarly subtle most of the time, and virtuosic when required. Together, the quartet promise much for the upcoming UK tour.

Henry told a story of a tune that he was asked to perform but was initially unwilling to do: it was good that he changed his mind and eventually got permission from the estate of Nina Simone to perform and record Mississippi Goddam. 

You can read my review of Who We Are from October 2024 here.