Cole’s Type of Love Unforgettable was unforgettable in just the right sort of way. A relaxing way to start with weekend with a delicious mocktail in hand whilst listening to John Paul Millard, Matilda Simcock and their 5-piece band celebrate the life and music of Natalie Cole, daughter of singer and jazz pianist Nat King Cole, and a musician, actor and Grammy Award winner in her own right.

Cole’s music crossed many genres and accordingly the set included swing, Latin, funk, bebop, and others with memorable renditions of Sophisticated Lady, Our Love and Unforgettable.

For me, a highlight of the evening was watching saxophonist Millard who appeared to be enjoying every minute of the show playing with sass and energy which was infectious. Millard spoke about his experience playing with Cole when she came to Perth in the late 1990’s which perhaps explained his confident style of playing.

As for Simcock, she had great stage presence, engaging with the audience and her band to bring playfulness, joy, and fun to her set, with just the right amount of chit chatter between songs. Everyone in the audience seemed to enjoy moving their bodies into creative letter shapes of L-O-V-E and heartily clapped at solo spotlights on band members. Toe tapping was all around!

The cosy atmosphere of the Ambassador Bar, a new small music venue in Northbridge, was the perfect venue for the event, and I would recommend asking the bar staff with whisk up an espresso martini to be sipped whilst listening to Coffee Time.

This was a four-and-a-half-star event which I would recommend as a perfect date night, family friendly get together, or weekend chat up with friends.