The third event in a series of six Penthouse Conversations taking place at London City Island was an exhilarating evening of music and conversation. Journalist and author Rob Ryan introduced renowned musician Reuben James and led a discussion on the genre-defying music for which he is known.

James also delivered one of his memorable performances on the keyboard, accompanied by Ferg Ireland on double bass and together the duo experimented with protracted rests and passages of jazz improvisation. James also applied his inexhaustible capacity for improv to the audience, interacting with them in creative ways as though they were melodic ornaments.

Reuben James speaks to journalist Rob Ryan

In the interview that followed, Ryan asked James about his musical origins. James explained that his parents had had good taste. He recounted holidays on which he enjoyed listening to eclectic types of music such as son Cubano, a fusion of Spanish and African influences (appropriately, the most famous example, Buena Vista Social Club, was playing over the speakers as guests arrived at the Penthouse).

Once he had purchased a piano, James often excused himself from household chores because, as he frequently told his parents, he had to practise. He also spoke about his belief that one must have mastery over several genres before one can hope to master jazz – and so, he long ago set out to become a musical polymath, learning multiple genres including blues, soul and gospel. He now takes influences from all of these when composing his unique sound.

The audience gathers in the brand-new Penthouse at London City Island

James treated the lucky audience to several songs (including one that has not yet been released). During one of these, he seamlessly transitioned to a rendition of La Vie en Rose, and even broke for a moment into a version of Louis Armstrong’s scat singing.

Although summer sunlight lit up the previous Penthouse Conversations, night fell during James’s second round of music, and the panoramic view of London transformed into a sprinkle of distant lights in the darkness outside. The Penthouse became an outlying beacon of light, which added to the intimacy of James’s performance. We hope the remaining Penthouse Conversations events will be as interesting and enjoyable as this enthralling night.

For anyone who wants to get to know the music of Reuben James and his contemporaries, host and jazz writer Rob Ryan has put together a Spotify playlist to enjoy – click here to experience Penthouse Conversations 3: A Playlist.

The remaining Penthouse Conversations will bring together experts for more thoughtful discussions of eclectic subjects. Look out for them on London City Island’s Instagram – @londoncityislandlife and on Eventbrite. We will be making a limited number of places available for these events for Brummell readers, and will be notifying you via Brummell newsletters and social.

Find out more about London City Island at londoncityisland.com