A Jazz-Fueled Evening with The Puppini Sisters at Sunderland’s Fire Station
26.11.2024 Puppini Sisters
Invited| Review by V.Brewster
Having never visited Sunderland Fire Station before this evening, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Upon arrival, I must have looked a little lost because a friendly staff member at the front entrance quickly approached me. “Are you here for tonight’s show?” they asked. When I confirmed, they kindly explained where to go and gave me an idea of what to expect inside the auditorium. Their warm welcome set the tone for what turned out to be an extraordinary evening.
The Fire Station’s auditorium is stunning—a space that balances modernity and character in a way that rivals even The Glasshouse. Roomy seats ensure no one feels crammed, yet the intimate atmosphere isn’t compromised. Every view is unrestricted, and the venue’s acoustic design created a perfect stage for tonight’s performers: The Puppini Sisters.
For the uninitiated, The Puppini Sisters are a modern jazz, close harmony trio known for their impeccable retro styling and genre-bending arrangements. Accompanied by double bass player Henrik Jensen, jazz drummer Peter Ibbetson – whose playing technique was as intricate as it was stylish – and guitarist Martin Kolarides in particular added another layer of intrigue, using effects to mimic various instruments – at one point, I found myself scanning the stage for a mandolin or a piano, only to realize it was all him! His mastery of tone and texture was breathtaking. All these ingredients swirled together into a classic “six-cylinder” cocktail, and delivered an evening of rich musical delight.
The close-harmony queens stepped onto the stage in shimmering gold tea dresses, complete with fruity headpieces that were as playful as their onstage banter. Their vintage elegance complemented the authentic jazz-club feel of the set, transporting the audience to a time when jazz was king. Even the interval background music maintained this vibe, with tracks from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald interwoven with the Puppini Sisters’ own catalog—a clever touch that kept the evening immersive.
The first half was a treat, but the second half elevated the show further. The Sisters returned in luxuriously seductive wine-red cocktail dresses, once again with matching floral headpieces, and dove headfirst into another rich set. The arrangement and execution of their performances felt like a musical education spanning the 1920s to the 1950s. In some parts, it was quite literally educational, as the Sisters paused to explain aspects of the music, such as the introduction and evolution of bebop and scat, offering fascinating insights into the genre’s history and its transformative impact on jazz.
Each Sister brought something unique to the performance. Marcella Puppini, the sole remaining “true Puppini” and founder of the group, delivered a stunning solo rendition of “Jitterbug Waltz.” The piece was intimate and measured, showcasing not only her vocal range but also her attention to diction and timbre. She accompanied herself on an accordion in parts, further highlighting the group’s versatility.
Emma Smith’s solo, which the girls refer to as “unravelling harmony”, was another standout moment. Her voice, with a richness reminiscent of dark chocolate truffles, radiated warmth and skill. Her scatting was particularly remarkable—precise yet playful, demonstrating her command of jazz techniques.
Special mention must also go to Kate Mullins, whose voice was like a vintage phonograph brought to life—smooth, warm, and steeped in timeless charm. Her tone carried a Doris Day-esque quality, evoking a golden era of music while feeling as vibrant and fresh as the crisp winter evening outside. Each note she sang was rich with nostalgia, yet her delivery was anything but dated, breathing new life into classic jazz and captivating the audience with its effortless grace. It was a voice that seemed to wrap the room in a velvet embrace, leaving everyone enchanted.
The group’s witty commentary and anecdotes throughout the show added to their charm. They touched on their roots, including their time performing in London’s avant-garde gay scene at Duckie, which drew raucous applause from the audience. Their offhand analogies and humour made the evening feel as much like a conversation as a concert.
The night ended on a high note with a singular encore: a breathtaking rendition of “O Holy Night.” Their harmonies soared, leaving the audience in awe. Sunderland Fire Station proved to be a fitting venue for The Puppini Sisters’ vibrant, genre-defying performance. From their postmodern takes on classic jazz to their impeccable style and showmanship, the evening was a feast for the senses—a jazz club dream brought to life.
As part of their 20th-anniversary tour, The Puppini Sisters proved once again why they are the reigning queens of vintage-inspired harmony and jazz innovation. With their dazzling performances, witty charm, and impeccable musicianship, they delivered an evening that was both a celebration of their illustrious career and a testament to their enduring talent. If this tour is anything to go by, missing them the next time they’re in the area would be a musical crime. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or simply someone who appreciates a spectacular show, The Puppini Sisters are an absolute must-see.
The Puppini Sisters’ extensive back catalogue is available to buy and stream everywhere now!