Last night, a mesmerising concert unfolded at St Pancras Old Church, marking what would have been Jimi Hendrix’s 82nd birthday. Organised by the late Bobby Bertoli, who tragically passed away earlier this year, the event was a heartfelt tribute not only to Hendrix but also to Bertoli himself. His efforts in organising this celebration leave a legacy of love for music, and the evening’s proceedings were a testament to his passion. The event also served a philanthropic purpose, with proceeds directed to a charity that had supported Bobby during his life. The concert’s charity page stands as a reminder of Bobby’s enduring commitment to giving back. A mixture of gratitude and emotion suffused the atmosphere as attendees honoured the spirit of both Hendrix and Bertoli. The performers for the evening – Zurito, a fiery guitar duo, and Seye Adelekan – delivered electrifying performances that transformed the historical church into an “Electric Church” in the truest sense. This term, coined by Hendrix himself, symbolises a non-traditional, free-flowing approach to music, which resonated powerfully throughout the night.
St Pancras Old Church: A historic venue
Nestled in the heart of London, St Pancras Old Church is one of the city’s oldest Christian sites, dating back to at least the 4th century. Its intimate setting, with beautiful stained glass windows and a rich sense of history, provided the perfect backdrop for this celebration of music and legacy. The church’s acoustics amplified the raw emotion of the performances, making the evening even more memorable.
Zurito: Virtuosity with a Spanish twist
Fresh from a triumphant 17-date tour of Japan, Zurito’s dynamic blend of Spanish guitar tradition with psychedelic and rhythmic experimentation captivated the audience. The duo’s virtuosity – a combination of intricate finger work and vibrant stage presence – has propelled them to international acclaim. From their beginnings busking on London’s streets to receiving praise from guitar legend Jimmy Page, Zurito’s journey has been extraordinary. Their groovy Rumba rhythms and explosive energy echoed Hendrix’s own innovative style, making it clear why Bobby Bertoli chose them for this event.
Highlights from their set included pieces from their three original albums, all of which showcased their genre-defying sound. Their ability to transform the traditional Spanish guitar into a vehicle for rock and roll rebellion left the crowd in awe, with many likening Javier’s histrionic guitar skills to Hendrix’s own unbridled energy. The duo’s camaraderie on stage added a personal touch, further engaging the audience. I first encountered them a few months ago at Handel Hendrix House inside Jimi’s bedroom, where their energy and skill left a lasting impression. Watch this space as I will soon interview Zurito for both the London Mums magazine and my forthcoming book about rock rebels as they truly incarnate the contemporary rebellion with their globe-trotting and free-spirited lifestyle.
Handel Hendrix House continues to foster new talents and inspire guitar enthusiasts through interactive events and exhibitions, making it a must-visit for music lovers. Their website is worth checking regularly to explore their vibrant programmes.
Seye Adelekan: Channelling Hendrix’s spirit
Joining Zurito was Seye Adelekan, whose performance channelled the passion and charisma of Jimi Hendrix. Adelekan, known for his work with Gorillaz and other prominent artists, brought a soulful intensity to the stage. His resemblance to Hendrix – both physically and in spirit – added an ethereal layer to the evening. Adelekan’s renditions of Hendrix classics such as “Purple Haze” and “Little Wing” captured the revolutionary essence of the “Electric Church” concept, leaving the audience spellbound. His command over the guitar, coupled with heartfelt vocals, underscored his deep respect for Hendrix’s legacy.
The legacy of the “Electric Church”
Hendrix’s “Electric Church” philosophy represented his vision of music as a transformative force that transcended boundaries. It encompassed informal jam sessions, collaborations with a diverse array of musicians, and groundbreaking albums such as Electric Ladyland. The term also inspired the name of the Buddy Miles Express album Electric Church (1968), part of which Hendrix produced. These historical echoes added depth to the event, reminding attendees of Hendrix’s enduring impact on music.
A night of celebration and reflexion
As the night drew to a close, the audience lingered in the charged atmosphere of St Pancras Old Church, reflecting on the emotional depth of the evening. This was more than a concert; it was a celebration of life, creativity, and the indomitable spirit of rock and roll. Bobby Bertoli’s vision for the event brought together a community of music lovers to honour Hendrix and celebrate the beauty of human connection through art.
For those who missed this extraordinary night, the concert’s legacy lives on. The charity supported by the event continues to provide meaningful assistance, and Zurito’s rise as global ambassadors of Hendrix’s spirit signals that the “Electric Church” is alive and thriving. In Bobby’s memory and in Hendrix’s name, the world is indeed a better place.
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