There exists a particular strain of rhythm and blues that transcends the mere boundaries of song, ascending instead into the realm of the symphonic. This is "The Sound of Philadelphia," a musical movement that married the grit of the street to the elegance of the conservatory. On Sunday, the 12th of April 2026, the venerable Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith (formerly Hammersmith Odeon) shall play host to a most prestigious occasion. Presented by Soul Motion and in part of Expansion’s 40th Anniversary, this evening promises a definitive celebration of the legendary Dexter Wansel and the MFSB orchestra.
The Architect of the Cosmic Soul
At the vanguard of this performance stands Mr. Dexter Wansel. A figure of immense standing within the annals of American music, Wansel served as a primary architect for Philadelphia International Records beyond the Gamble & Huff years. His contributions as a producer, arranger, and keyboardist fundamentally altered the landscape of popular music from the mid-70s through to the 80s.
It was Wansel who introduced a celestial, almost interstellar quality to the arrangements. His seminal work, Life on Mars, remains a cornerstone of the jazz-funk genre. It is a testament to his enduring relevance that his compositions continue to be sampled by the most prominent contemporary artists of the current century. For this London engagement, Wansel has overseen the proceedings as the spiritual and musical guide of the evening. He will hopefully also attend and perform on the night, subject to doctors orders following a recent spell in hospital
An Orchestral Force of Unparalleled Scale
To faithfully recreate the "MFSB Experience," one requires a musical force of significant magnitude. To that end, the stage shall be occupied by a magnificent thirty-three piece orchestra. This ensemble has been assembled to mirror the original Mother Father Sister Brother collective, the house band that defined the output of the famed Sigma Sound Studios.
The task of directing this formidable assembly falls to the esteemed Maestro McKinley Jackson. A gentleman whose pedigree includes tenures at Motown and significant contributions to the Detroit soul scene, Jackson possesses the rare ability to command a large-scale orchestra while maintaining the essential "swing" required of the genre. Under his baton, the lush strings and piercing brass sections shall provide the authentic backdrop that this music demands.
A Gathering of Soul Aristocracy
A celebration of such magnitude requires voices of equal distinction. The evening is set to feature a curated selection of special guests who represent the very pinnacle of the Philadelphia tradition.
- Jean Carne: Possessing a vocal range of five octaves, Miss Carne is widely regarded as the preeminent songstress of the PIR label – ‘The Queen of Philadelphia Soul’. Her performances are noted for their technical brilliance and profound emotional resonance.
- Shirley Jones: As the leading voice of The Jones Girls, her contributions to the genre are woven into the very fabric of the 1970s and 80s. Her presence ensures an evening of sophisticated harmony.
- Terri Wells: In what is anticipated to be a highlight of the spring season, Miss Wells shall make her debut performance upon United Kingdom soil. Known for the timeless classic "The Sweetest Pain," her appearance is a rare treat for the discerning enthusiast. The music of all three artists appearing under the direction of Dexter Wansel at Philadelphia International Records (PIR)
The Cultural Significance of the MFSB Experience
The Sound of Philadelphia was never merely a commercial endeavour; it was a cultural phenomenon that sought to bring "love, peace, and soul" to a global audience. MFSB provided the heartbeat for an entire generation, bridging the gap between traditional rhythm and blues and the burgeoning disco movement.
In an age where live instrumentation is too often replaced by digital artifice, the presence of a thirty-three piece orchestra at the Eventim Apollo is a significant cultural event. It offers a rare opportunity for the public to experience these sophisticated arrangements in their full, unadulterated glory. The acoustics of the Hammersmith venue shall provide the perfect vessel for this wall of sound.
Particulars for the Discerning Patron
This gala performance is scheduled for Sunday, the 12th of April 2026. The doors of the Eventim Apollo, Hammersmith, shall open to welcome those who appreciate the finer points of orchestral soul. Given the historic nature of Terri Wells’ debut and the rare gathering of such esteemed talent, it is advised that patrons secure their attendance with due haste.
This event is not merely a concert, but rather a sophisticated homage to an era of musical excellence that continues to inspire. It is a night where the cosmopolitan flair of Philadelphia meets the historic grandeur of London.
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