Singer Kate Eden specialises in interpreting jazz standards and she will be bringing her own touch to some classics at the Bull’s Head next Friday. Eden spoke to Will Gore ahead of the gig.

What have you planned for the Bull's Head gig?

We have planned two one hour sets of vocal-led jazz. I’ll be accompanied by some of the UK’s leading jazz musicians; virtuoso pianist Alex Hutton, double-bassist Simon Little, better known as a member of The Divine Comedy and a fabulous drummer, Josh Morrison.

Do you enjoy playing at the venue?

Absolutely, it’s one of my favourites. It’s a great space and size and the atmosphere’s always warm. It’s also wonderful to perform in a venue with such a rich history.

How did your start out in jazz?

I began singing jazz on my home island of Jersey some years ago. I performed with local musicians The Black Butter Jazz Band at corporate functions and in hotels and as resident vocalist at The Blue Note Bar for over a year. I moved back to London a couple of years ago and gradually met some amazing musicians who I am lucky enough to now work with regularly.

How do you approach jazz standards? Do you like to tinker with them?

My dad is a huge jazz fan so I have grown up listening to the standards. I love that they appeal to so many and there are so many wonderful interpretations to be found. I always aim for an original approach but try to not to stray too far from the tune as they are classics for a reason.

Is there one you always do?

I try to keep the set constantly evolving, taking out songs and adding new to keep things fresh for our regular audience and my musicians. There isn’t really one I always do but at the moment, I do like our up tempo arrangement of The Way You Look Tonight and a lesser know standard, Lean Baby.

Any albums on the way?

We recently recorded a five-track EP Lean Baby, that will be available to purchase at The Bull’s Head and we are planning to record an album late this year.

Musical influences

I adore Blossom Dearie’s style and feel sad I never got the chance to see her live and I love how Sammy Davis Junior sells a song.

You are also an actor, but is music your first love?

I have loved music for longer I suppose but now it would be hard to choose between them. It is definitely the actress in me singing the songs. It’s hard to ignore good lyrics.

Kate Eden Quartet, The Bull’s Head, 373 Lonsdale Road, Barnes, February 19, 8.30pm, £10, thebullshead.com/myspace.com/kateeden