Saturday 25th February 2023
Doors: 5pm
Happy Hour: 5-6:30pm
Gig: 5:30-6:30pm
Free Entry

We don’t take advance table bookings M&P’s Early-Evening Gigs, just make sure you get down early to bagsy the best seats in the house!

And so comes the end of Mardi Gras week at Matt & Phred’s, so tonight needed to be special. Creating the sounds of New Orleans during a M&P early-evening gig called for one man…

Henry Botham is one of the UK’s leading Harlem Stride, Blues and New Orleans pianists, most noted for his work with 52 Skidoo, The Nightcreatures, and Mr. Wilson’s Second Liners. With Henry’s hugely diverse musical ability being clear, it’s fair to say that his solo performances are something truly special.

Henry has a huge passion for and appreciation of New Orleans piano, which draws from a wide range of influences including Blues, Jazz, Funk, R&B, Rhumba, Ragtime and even Classical music and Rock, all epitomized by the recognised master of the genre, James Booker. Audiences will not only enjoy Henry’s playing, but also his both witty and interesting introductions to both the style at large and the songs he will play.

This is the music of and inspired by Dr John, Professor Longhair, Jelly Roll Morton, Fats Waller, James P. Johnson, Willie ‘The Lion’ Smith, Luckey Roberts and Dick Wellstood. Now that’s a pretty impressive selection.

Having his musical roots in traditional New Orleans music certainly doesn’t stop Henry being a pioneer of bringing this distinct style into the modern age, you can expect some surprises from Henry along the way, from Prince, to The Beatles, to The Prodigy and beyond, all remaining true to the New Orleans style.

Plus it’s HAPPY HOUR 5-6:30pm
-> 2 drinks = FREE PIZZA
-> 2 house cocktails = £12