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ABOUT US
Formed after a memorable debut at London’s iconic Pizza Express Soho jazz club, Luminoso has quickly become one of London’s premier jazz groups. With fresh, vibrant energy, the band brings Jazz, Latin, and R&B to life, captivating audiences with dynamic performances, catchy original music, and a uniquely powerful sound.
Led by Europe’s rising star vocalist, Francesca Confortini and acclaimed pianist, arranger, and composer, Brian Clemens, Luminoso delivers an exhilarating blend of reimagined Jazz, Latin, R&B classics, creatively arranged standards, and original songs.
Through the songwriting duo of Clemens & Confortini, Luminoso crafts infectious melodies and lyrics that echo the timeless charm of the Great American Songbook. Each performance is an immersive journey through a rich array of musical styles, enhanced by the seamless camaraderie between Brian and Francesca and the soaring lines of the clarinet.
OUR STORY
In 2023, Los Angeles native and acclaimed pianist/composer Brian Clemens embarked on a mission to share the music from his celebrated album Beneath the Blue with European audiences. Driven by a passion for creating music that bridges cultures and resonates with diverse listeners, Brian set his sights on Europe. After an electrifying performance at Herb Alpert’s legendary Vibrato Jazz Club in Los Angeles, he embarked on a brief but impactful European tour, culminating in a one-off show at London’s Pizza Express Soho jazz club. This was where the story of Luminoso began..
During this pivotal performance, Brian was joined by London’s own Francesca Confortini, a veteran vocalist with a distinctive, melodic, and expressive style that perfectly complemented his compositions. The chemistry between them was immediate and undeniable, sparking the birth of Luminoso. Their collaboration was further solidified when they co-wrote the Italian-language song “Domani,” blending Brian’s melodic sensibilities with Francesca’s lyrical artistry.
Shortly after, they released Live in London Ft. Francesca Confortini, recorded during their Pizza Express Soho performance. The album quickly garnered praise, including from Jazzwise UK, one of the leading voices in jazz. Encouraged by this success, Brian relocated to London, laying the foundation for Luminoso’s future.
Luminoso soon expanded and solidified its lineup, bringing in seasoned London musicians: bassist Ed Babar, woodwind player Damon Oliver, and drummer Daniele Antenucci. This ensemble brought a dynamic energy and unique chemistry that has since enchanted audiences.
This year, Luminoso is set to charm audiences across Europe and the UK, continuing their mission of delivering fresh, vibrant, and timeless music at iconic venues such as Istanbul’s Nardis Jazz Club & the UK’s, Peggy’s Skylight.
Francesca Confortini – Vocals
“Francesca brings such energy, drive and musicianship to the task of bandleader that it all works” – The Arts Desk
Italian-born jazz vocalist Francesca Confortini brings her soulful tone to every performance. With a background in musical theatre and international experience as a singer for the likes of Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), along with work with gypsy-jazz ensembles Trio Manouche and Gypsy Dynamite as well as her trio Jazz Silhouettes, she exudes sophistication and warmth in everything she does. A versatile vocalist capable of moving from her neo-jazz originals to interpretation of the American Songbook classics Francesca is without doubt “one to watch”!
Brian Clemens – Piano/Arrangements
“From beginning to end, Brian Clemens paints a vivid musical canvas and seamlessly weaves together a tapestry of diverse jazz styles.”
– All About Jazz
Brian Clemens is a London-based jazz pianist, arranger, and bandleader originally from Los Angeles. After earning his master’s degree in California and studying under Grammy Award-winning pianist and arranger Bill Cunliffe, Brian established himself in the vibrant Los Angeles music scene. He has headlined renowned venues such as Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Jazz Grill and Pizza Express, Soho. Recently, he relocated to London, where he directs and leads his acclaimed jazz band, Luminoso. His latest album, “Live in London Ft. Francesca Confortini,” was recorded in London in the fall of 2023 and was hailed as “an exhilarating and entertaining set of creative arrangements of standards and original music” by JazzWiseUK.
Brian Clemens draws inspiration from legendary pianists such as Oscar Peterson, Billy Taylor, Ray Charles, and George Shearing. His arranging style reflects the influence of greats like Billy May and Nelson Riddle
Ed Babar – Bass
“Babar lays down the percolating cadence with his deep, dark reverberating tones. He also showcases his instrumental prowess as he takes centre stage..” All About Jazz
Ed Babar is a jazz/orchestral double bassist, bass guitarist and music educator based in London. Ed has performed on Jools Holland and the Graham Norton Show (Liam Gallagher), Radio 1 Live Lounge and the Michael Macintyre Show (Tom Odell), played live on BBC’sThe One Show (The Bevin Boys) and on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune (Tara Minton). More recent performance highlights include Bobby-Jane Gardner’s “Music of the Unseen” at London’s Southbank Centre and a contemporary opera festival at TivoliVredenburg Utrecht with The Futurists Foundation. As a studio musician Ed has recorded soundtracks for Sky Arts, BBC, ITV and Apple TV, as well as various recording artists.
Damon Oliver – Woodwinds
Known for his “authoritative” tenor sound and “exciting, well-crafted” solos, Damon is a saxophonist whose professional life has taken him around the world, working with the likes of BBC Symphony Orchestra and London Philharmonic Orchestra as well as recording with renowned artists like Mark Lettieri, Issac Gracie and the Spike Orchestra.
Doubling on clarinet and flute, Damon’s versatile musicianship skills have also seen him record for a variety of TV, film and video game soundtracks alongside a busy schedule performing in many of London’s most highly esteemed venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, The Vortex Jazz Club and the Spice of Life, soho.
Daniele Antenucci – Drums
Daniele is an accomplished Italian-born drummer with a deep specialization in Jazz, Funk, and Latin rhythms. Coming from a musical family, Daniele was immersed in the sounds of Soul, Motown, and Blues from an early age, which laid the foundation for his diverse musical style.
A graduate with honors from the esteemed British and Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM) in London, Daniele refined his artistry under the guidance of some of the most influential figures in the music industry, including Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez, Dave Weckl, Byron Landham, Gavin Harrison, and Omar Hakim.
Throughout his career, Daniele has collaborated with renowned artists such as the Ayoub Sisters, Imaani, Lex Cameron, and Beverly Skeete. His ability to seamlessly blend technical precision with expressive musicality has made him a sought-after drummer on both the live performance and recording circuits.
Daniele’s talent has taken him to the global stage, performing at some of the world’s most prestigious festivals, including the iconic Glastonbury Festival. His diverse musical background and dedication to his craft continue to drive his evolution as a versatile and dynamic force in the music industry.