THE JAZZ CAFE, Camden
The Free Label - 26/02/26
The Free Label had the whole of The Jazz Cafe smiling, sliding and side-stepping with their feelgood funk and soul performance last night in London.
Come back next week to read our interview backstage with the band!
Photography by Bethany Cordery.
The Canadians brought serious flare(s) to London’s legendary venue, and had the whole crowd dancing by the end of the night, brought to a close with a rousing rendition of Shaggy’s ‘It Wasn’t Me’, and extended instrumentals showcasing the talent oozing from each musician.
With six members in the band, each one truly held their presence. Entertainment was guaranteed wherever you stood, whether those on the far left were treated to guitarist Malik Mungo‘s absorbing expressions, those opposite benefitted from bassist Mathew Fantini’s energy-inducing lurches towards the audience, or those seated in the balcony enjoyed an aerial view of the cool groove of Cole Mendez’ keys, or Jason Martin’s wonderfully enthusiastic drumming. The set was directed by the pipes and bucketless charisma of lead singer and saxophonist Joshua Daniel, though not without fanfare saved and spent on each of his deserving bandmates.
The Free Label’s semi-choreographed, larger-than-life show was literally spilling over the stage, culminating in Jacob Thompson‘s raucous keytar solo performed from the crowd. Support came from British collective, Bare Jams, who received plenty of their own support — the convivial atmosphere carried over with the frontmen wearing each other’s merch. Ahead of their forthcoming brassed-up remix of previous single ‘Gals4U’, the two bands joined, at one point numbering 10 musicians on stage.
It won’t be long before The Free Label are doubling their venue capacities, so if you’re up for a dance party, or just keen to watch one unfold on stage, let this be your incentive to catch the sextet on their next UK run.