We welcome Phoebe Rea and Jem Wax to Piano Smithfield, for London EFG Jazz Festival 2026.

Phoebe Rea is a singer-songwriter, pianist and keys player whose music blends nu-jazz, alternative and art-pop into a sound that is both sophisticated and emotionally raw. Phoebe honed her craft at the BRIT School before studying Popular Music at Goldsmiths, University of London, where she became immersed in London's vibrant jazz scene. Phoebe creates songs that pair rich, groove-led arrangements with candid lyricism, exploring themes of identity, perfectionism, self-worth and growth. Her debut EP, Anybody Else?, released in 2026, showcases her distinctive fusion of live musicianship, alt-pop songwriting and nu-jazz influences, and captures both vulnerability and confidence in equal measure.

Phoebe has performed at Upstairs at Ronnie Scotts, Pizza Express Live , Truck Festival and more, earning a reputation for captivating performances that effortlessly blur the lines between jazz, pop and alternative music.

Jem Wax is an independent artist and producer with a bold and eclectic, commercial sound. Blending elements of soul and jazz with a unique tone, honest lyricism and alternative edge - shaped by artists like RAYE, Olivia Dean and Hard Life. Jem’s single SPIDERRR gained support from BBC 1 Introducing’s Jess Iszatt and Maria Hanlon, positioning her as a distinctive voice in the UK’s emerging music scene.

Opening set from rising Lodnon jazz artist Taylor Mitchell

Description supplied by the event organiser.