Monika Lidke 'Pure Listening'

Blending poetic jazz-folk, subtle world rhythms, expressive storytelling and moments of playful musical exchange, Pure Listening invites audiences into an intimate concert experience where spontaneity and connection unfold naturally between the musicians. Together, they create a space that encourages us to slow down, reconnect with ourselves and one another, and rediscover the quiet beauty and transformative power of deep listening.

London-based singer, songwriter and storyteller Monika Lidke has carved out a distinctive place on the contemporary jazz scene with music that effortlessly weaves together jazz, folk and world influences. Born in Poland, artistically shaped in Paris and now firmly established in London, she brings a uniquely European voice to her songwriting, blending poetic lyricism, intimate storytelling and expressive improvisation.

Described by Jazz FM as "fresh and individual" and by BBC Radio London as "absolutely beautiful", Monika is renowned for performances that are both emotionally engaging and musically adventurous. Her warm, crystalline voice and deeply personal songs invite audiences into a space of reflection, connection and celebration.

Since releasing her acclaimed debut album Waking Up to Beauty in 2008, Monika has continued to develop a body of work that crosses musical boundaries while remaining unmistakably her own. Her recordings have featured collaborations with celebrated artists including Basia Trzetrzelewska, Janek Gwizdala, Shez Raja and leading musicians from both the UK and Poland. Her third album, Gdyby każdy z nas, released on the American label Dot Time Records, set contemporary Polish poetry to music and received widespread critical acclaim. Her fourth album, Let the World Be a Question, further expanded her distinctive blend of jazz, folk and cinematic songwriting, earning international praise for its originality and emotional depth.

A familiar presence on the UK jazz circuit, Monika has performed at renowned venues including Ronnie Scott's, PizzaExpress Live Soho and the 606 Club, as well as appearing at the EFG London Jazz Festival, Manchester Jazz Festival, Jazzahead! and Rhythms of the World Festival. Her music has also been featured regularly on radio in the UK and Poland, introducing audiences to a thoughtful and deeply human approach to contemporary jazz.

Today, Monika presents Pure Listening, her fifth studio album and most intimate work to date. Written during a period of profound personal transformation, it is a lyrical meditation on presence, resilience and the healing power of music. Joined by three exceptional musicians - guitarist Matt Chandler, bassist Jakub Cywiński and drummer Adam Teixeira - Monika embraces the spirit of jazz through playful musical conversation, spontaneous interplay and shared storytelling. Together they create an intimate concert experience that invites audiences to slow down, reconnect with themselves and one another, and rediscover the quiet beauty and transformative power of deep listening.

"“Here’s an artist who knows how to invade our dreams” " - Sarah Ward, Jazz FM