Set in the warm, candle-lit intimacy of The Crazy Coqs in London, SOIR NOIR: A Nightclub Confidential invites its audience into a nostalgic world of velvet vocals, piano accompaniment, and old-world glamour. The show, fronted by David Rhodes and joined by pianist Simon Beck and guest singer Jake Oswell, evokes the golden age of cabaret—from the glitz of Cole Porter to the croon of Nat King Cole—with the soft glow of a different era.
Rhodes delivers each number with sincere feeling, his voice reaching effortlessly through the room, and his storytelling between songs creates a sense of familiarity—as if he’s confiding in old friends. At one point, he weaves a personal memory of Cape Cod into the set, a gesture that adds depth to the otherwise vintage playlist.
The space itself complements the mood: low lighting, small tables, and an older audience who seemed to relish the chance to revisit the music of their youth. The atmosphere is more bar-lounge than theatre, which suits the format well, though it does raise questions about whether the show stands fully on its own outside of such an ambient setting.
What carries the evening is the strength of the musical choices and the quality of the performances. The set list is thoughtfully curated, blending timeless standards with a few lesser-known gems that suit the cabaret style perfectly. Rhodes sings with genuine emotion, and his voice fits the repertoire with ease and warmth. Jake Oswell’s guest appearance brings a different tone that complements Rhodes beautifully, and both vocalists demonstrate strong control and musicality. The piano accompaniment is faultless throughout—sensitive, well-paced, and never overpowering—adding polish to the entire performance.
As a piece of entertainment, SOIR NOIR succeeds in being gentle, stylish, and quietly romantic. It may not push any boundaries, but for those seeking a peaceful evening steeped in retro sophistication, it certainly delivers. If you stumbled upon this act in a bar, you’d be genuinely impressed by the polish and personality on display. However, as a ticketed show, it may not hold the same appeal for younger audiences less familiar with the era being celebrated—there’s a risk that without that musical nostalgia, some may not fully appreciate the charm or find it quite worth the fee.