Theatre Nightlife Live

“It’s the Rio Thing” Kenny Clayton performs with Baiana.

“It’s the Rio Thing” Kenny Clayton performs with Baiana.

Kenny Clayton and Baiana present “It’s the Rio Thing” – an unforgettable, unmissable night of Brazilian music at the Hope Street Hotel, Liverpool Wednesday, May 29.

A legendary composer and pianist, Kenny has worked with the likes of Shirley Bassey, Petula Clark, Charles Aznavor, Cilla Black and Beatles producer George Martin – he is one of the outstanding musicians from a golden era of music.

He will perform with band Brazilian Baiana, fronted by Liverpool born football agent Laura Doyle, the band features guitarist Micky Dunne (The Manouchtones), drummer Vidar Norheim (ex-Wave Machines) and in-demand jazz bassist Jesse Eigan.

“This is a show which could go all over the world,” said Kenny. “It’s a wonderful band and Laura has a golden voice. I feel I’m in the very best of company and this is something very special.”

“It’s the Rio Thing” explores the great standards of Brazilian jazz, features original songs and puts a Latin twist on Lennon and McCartney’s most melodic compositions – what Kenny affectionately calls the “Scouse American songbook”.

Eight of Kenny’s never-heard-before tracks will also be performed live as part of their set at the Hope Street Hotel.

Laura, who works for London-based Stellar Group – home of elite players such as Gareth Bale and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, said: “I’ve always had a life away from football.

“I studied clowning in Paris with the great Philippe Gaulier, hosted a comedy club and performed in the underground cabaret scene. Singing has always been my dream though and what little spare time I get is devoted to it completely.

“Being an entertainer and making people happy is what makes me happy,” Laura adds. “I love being a football agent but making my living as a singer is what I really dream about. Baiana’s going really well and we’ve got a great  people around us, all helping take us up to the next level.

“Who knows, one day I might be at a football stadium but singing on stage instead of singing at the match!”

“Wow! So Fantastic. Great Brazilian vibes and what a voice” – Simon Rimmer, Celebrity Chef

“A thoroughly entertaining group. Their genuine and enthusiastic talent shine through in every number…a privilege and a joy to see them” – Liverpool Jazz

“A treasure chest of classic Bossa Novas…Liverpool based band Baiana have been wowing audiences with their sophisticated sounds” – Good News Liverpool

It’s the Rio Thing takes place at Hope Street Hotel, Hope Street, Liverpool. Tickets £10.

For tickets visit http://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk/

Listen: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1n13xCAFHKnWMc0U1ijQfQ

Website: https://baiana.co.uk/

Socials: https://www.facebook.com/Baianaband/ https://www.instagram.com/baianaband/

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Mike West