Kansas Smitty’s House Band, formed in 2013 by Jack Abraham and Giacomo Smith, quickly established itself in London’s jazz scene. The seven-piece ensemble initiated community engagement with their first annual Mardi Gras event in 2014. A pivotal moment in 2015 saw them establish their own intimate music venue, Kansas Smitty’s, in Hackney’s Broadway Market. This unique space functions as both a dedicated rehearsal hub and a thriving live music venue, nurturing a rich musical community and hosting notable artists such as Reuben James, Howe Gelb, Louis Cole, Bruno Major, Howard Alden, and Joe Stilgoe.
In 2018, the band released their album ‘Broadway 2018’ and showcased their international appeal with a performance at the renowned North Sea Jazz Festival. The band’s consistent output and critical success continued into the new decade, marked by the release of their album ‘Things Happened Here’ in 2020. Throughout their career, Kansas Smitty’s House Band has garnered widespread positive reviews in major publications such as The Times and Evening Standard, frequently achieving four-star ratings for both their captivating live performances and their recorded material. Their unique dual role as both an acclaimed ensemble and the proprietors of their own vibrant music venue underscores their enduring influence and innovative approach, making them a consistently bookable and marketable force within the global jazz and live music industries.