14th August, 2025As part of its International Music programming, the NCPA is set to present the India debut of Matt Bianco, the acclaimed British jazz-pop ensemble known for its infectious blend of sophisti-pop, Latin grooves, and jazz-funk.
This exclusive concert will feature songs from their acclaimed fifteenth studio album, ‘Gravity’, alongside classics like Half a Minute, Whose Side Are You On? and Get Out of Your Lazy Bed. Led by founding member and vocalist Mark Reilly, the band will be joined by an exceptional line-up: Elisabeth Antwi (backing vocals), Graham Harvey (piano), Sebastian de Krom (drums), Geoff Gascoyne (bass), Martin Shaw (trumpet), and David O’Higgins (saxophone).
Formed in 1983, Matt Bianco emerged as a musical outlier—mixing jazz-inflected pop with Latin rhythms, soul, funk, and cinematic nostalgia at a time when synthesised pop dominated the airwaves.
The band’s debut album, ‘Whose Side Are You On?’, became a breakout success across Europe, thanks to its sophisticated arrangements, polished production, and radio-friendly hits. Their sound stood apart for its blend of live instrumentation and danceable jazz grooves, a rare combination that resonated with audiences seeking both style and substance. Over the decades, Matt Bianco has undergone various line-up changes, but at its core, it has remained anchored by Mark Reilly’s vision and unmistakable vocal tone. Their very name was born out of an imaginative nod to 1960s spy films, whose soundtracks inspired the band’s suave, cosmopolitan aesthetic.
Their India debut concert at the NCPA marks a rare opportunity to experience a sound that brings together classic and modern influences, performed by musicians who have shaped and reshaped the British jazz scene over the decades. Each member brings a legacy of collaborations, from Jamie Cullum and Incognito to George Benson, Clean Bandit, and the BBC Big Band, fusing virtuosity with stagecraft.
Come be part of a musical evening that celebrates rhythm, melody, and craft—live on stage.
Box Office Opens:
9th June for Members
12th June for Public
Members: Rs. 2250, 1800, 1350, 900, 720 & 450/-
Non-Members: Rs. 2500, 2000, 1500, 1000, 800 & 500/-
Tickets (Not inclusive of GST)
Details:
Venue: Jamshed Bhabha Theatre
Date: 7th September, 2025
Time: 6.30 pm
Duration:3 hours
