Sophie Cairo - Reloaded Jazz to Funk 12/03/2022 – Trinity Church 318 Goodwood Road, Clarence Park Where did this wonderful singer come from and why haven’t we heard her across Australia. Sophie Cairo is originally from Hungary where no doubt she is a big star and deservedly so. Classically trained in Budapest, Sophie has travelled the world as a professional musician since 1996. She has performed with groups from symphony orchestras to opening for Lenny Kravitz and there is no wondering why. With just a trio of musicians Jack Spyker on Piano, Aiken Newnham on Bass and Simon Possingham on drums, Sophie led the almost full house in the beautiful Trinity Church, from gospel to acid jazz and big powerhouse ballads. The way she controls her instrument was phenomenal as was her range and expression through each genre. An accapella version of “Over the Rainbow” and her slant on Waltzing Matilda were welcomed by the mixture of Hungarian and Australian audience members. The partly Hungarian audience were clearly aware of her star power, whilst others like me were left in awe of Sophia’s ability and sound. There was gospel in “Jesus Loves me”, funky acid jazz in “Deep Waters” and even some disco with the La Bouche recorded “Be My Lover.” The use of backing tracks felt a little awkward with the band leaving the stage for a few songs and it was a shame that they didn’t at least play along with the sequenced tracks. I loved the selection of music, whilst it could have been more tailored for some of the older audience, it really highlighted Sophia’s deep connection to funk, soul and acid jazz. Her faultless versions of Whitney Houston’s, “I Will Always Love You”, “I Have Nothing and Run to me” had the audience on their feet for a well deserved standing ovation. It seems that we have Sophie in Adelaide due to Covid 19 and we are all the better for it. Sophie was able to win over the audience with her personality and amazing vocal sound and technique. It is a shame that this was only one performance in the Fringe. Sophia should be heard by our audiences across Australia, who could then appreciate the true depth of her talent before she returns to Europe. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 4.5 stars