Alex Bryson – Crazy Coqs, 27 May

Key Takeaways

• Bryson adds original songwriting to his piano trio repertoire
• First 10‑inch Christmas EP slated for December release
• Guest vocalist Grace Sheen joins for duets at Crazy Coqs
• Song ‘I’d Have Thought By Now’ performed at Cheltenham Jazz Festival

Pulse Analysis

Alex Bryson’s evolution from a pure‑instrumentalist to a full‑time singer‑songwriter reflects a broader trend among jazz musicians seeking to diversify their creative output. By weaving lyrical storytelling with the harmonic sophistication of his trio, Bryson taps into the legacy of Cole Porter and Lorenz Hart while injecting modern humor and intimacy. This hybrid approach not only appeals to traditional jazz audiences but also attracts listeners who favor narrative‑driven music, expanding his market reach beyond club patrons to streaming platforms and festival programmers.

The upcoming Crazy Coqs concert serves as a live laboratory for Bryson’s new material, featuring both holiday‑themed pieces and a growing body of non‑seasonal songs. Early reception has been encouraging: Flight Call’s rendition of “I’d Have Thought By Now” earned a spot at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, and the BBC Concert Orchestra’s performance highlighted the compositional depth of his work. By releasing a limited 10‑inch Christmas EP this December, Bryson leverages seasonal demand while building momentum for his broader catalog, a strategy that can generate both immediate sales and sustained interest.

Looking ahead, Bryson’s plan to record the new songs live with acclaimed engineers Joe Dessauer and Asaph Tal positions him for a high‑quality release that captures the spontaneity of his trio’s interplay. The weekly ‘singers only’ jam at The Lamb further cements his role as a community catalyst, fostering talent and expanding his network. Together, these initiatives promise to elevate Bryson’s profile, attract new venues, and contribute fresh, original repertoire to the contemporary jazz canon.