Bilal @ Matt and Phreds, 15/07

Matt and Phreds is the Manchester jazz scene’s spiritual home, yet July 15 sees the venue set to play host to one of the most exciting voices in soul. Whilst his haunting sound draws from a huge array of influence – gospel to blues and, of course, jazz – it is indistinguishably shaped by a soul heritage.

Since 2001’s “1st Born Second,” Bilal has allowed his smooth, sauntering voice to take him on journey that has included selling hundreds of thousands of albums, working with famed soul producer Adrian Young and a range of hip hop voices including Common, Jay-Z, Jay Dilla and Compton’s brightest Kendrick Lamar on To Pimp A Butterfly, an album which takes a lot of its vocal ques from “1st Born Second.”

Support comes from Layfulstop, one of Manchester’s most diverse artists whose discography ranges from soul to hip hop and rnb with effortless deft. As well as a raft of exciting solo material, Lay shines as part of Lychee collective with fellow Manchester MC Blind Mic. Her latest solo release, Colour Reaction, is out now on all streaming services.

#bilal #soul #jazz #kendricklamar