08 June 2019 (gig)
12 June 2019
Franco’s has been plating up delicious Italian inspired food for over 70 years, a rich Italian heritage which continues to this day. Music also plays its part and Franco’s Jazz Lounge has made a weekly return to satisfy customer’s appetite for a dining experience.
An intimate affair, downstairs at Franco’s now hosts Saturday night jazz for the lucky few. Tonight, S-J’s Jazz Trio welcomed us into the fold with a wonderful rendition of ‘Night and Day’ with Peggy Lee’s version of ‘Bewitched’ to follow. A self-confessed Peggy Lee fanatic, S-J expresses her love in no uncertain terms, “I wish I was her!” as she effortlessly slips into character. A personal favourite ‘Girl from Ipanema’ was warmly welcomed as were our starters.
The Strozzapreti was delicious - literally translated it means priest-stranglers, dating back to a time in Italy when the priest would always call in just before dinner was served and this hand-rolled pasta was invented, here with prawns, broad beans & lemon. Fresh hand-picked crab with avocado & lemon dressing also complimented the music nicely.
The mood is relaxed as S-J and her accomplished trio work their magic. There’s a natural chemistry amongst all the musicians and they welcome us in to the close-knit unit with Alex Hutton on keys having worked with S-J for over fifteen years. For mains we had roasted hake with spring vegetables & mussels along with grilled rump of lamb with aubergine puree & peppers. A delightful accompaniment to the free-flowing jazz.
With Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone also on our musical menu S-J’s blustery chaotic charm wins you over. ‘Feeling Good’ and ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ both delivered with passion but it was ‘I Go To Sleep’ written by Ray Davies and first released by The Applejacks that steals the show. Emotional and engaging the S-J Jazz Trio is back at Franco’s every month.
The food is a real treat, certain dishes have sur charges so the bill may be higher than expected, but an intimate night of relaxed jazz awaits for a special occasion. You can also go for drinks instead if you don’t fancy a three course meal. Check out upcoming artist and book here https://www.designmynight.com/london/whats-on/live-music/francos-jazz-lounge
