Sorin Zlat: Live at Pizza Express

Modern jazz is in safe hands with extraordinary Romanian pianist Sorin Zlat, who I have seen twice in just a few weeks: his original compositions are heart-felt and intensely personal.

Zlat’s latest performance was a sell-out show at Pizza Express in Dean Street, Soho. From the first notes, he had the audience entranced by his dexterous playing.

One of Zlat’s favourite song structures is an extended solo piano introduction that moves into establishing a groove that is picked up by the rest of the trio. He mixes it up and often starts straight in without the introduction, but those opening cadenzas add something special in terms of expression and emotional depth. 

Zlat chooses his fellow musicians well and his experience within ensembles across Europe puts him in a strong position for choosing the finest to make up his trio. For this Soho gig, he was with Mikele Montolli (bass) and Andy Trim (drums). 

I first saw Zlat at the Cowshed in August 2026 and thoroughly enjoyed his entertaining and skilful piano: he was joined by Montolli on bass at that time (with Joel Barford on drums).

People are clearly important to Zlat - tunes are named after family members (and his dog, Max), as well as the particularly moving Bye Bye Sparrow, dedicated to a friend who sadly died young.

Although originally intended as an album launch gig - we’ll have to wait a while for the arrival of Changing Times - the evening was truly inspirational, with songs old and new. The tune which will form the title track when the album is released was performed with a touch of humour, including touches of the classic Smile.

Zlat is a cerebral composer and pianist who can play fiendishly fast or simply and delicately. When Changing Times is finally released, that will be another gig worth booking before it sells out.

Sorin Zlat’s music is available here