Review: Jeremy Sassoon’s MOJO (Unplugged), Fringe 2025

What do you get when you combine a former hospital psychiatrist, a classically trained pianist, and a soulful singer with a passion for celebrating musical heritage?

You get Jeremy Sassoon’s MOJO (Unplugged), a truncated, solo version of his celebrated show, MOJO (Musicians of Jewish Origin). In this intimate setting at the Assembly Rooms, Sassoon takes the audience on a whirlwind, piano-led journey through the history of Jewish composers and singer-songwriters, delivering a masterclass in musical history and a joyous celebration of some of the greatest songs ever written.

The Educational Vibe

The show is not only a musical delight but also an illuminating history lesson. Sassoon delves into the origins of many classic songs, revealing that Jewish composers wrote a surprising number. He expertly guides the audience through different eras, starting with the iconic Gershwin and the Golden Age of the Great American Songbook. He details how a small part of New York, known as Tin Pan Alley, was the birthplace of some truly iconic music, followed later by the Brill Building, where dozens of writers like Carole King and Randy Newman knocked out what would become pop classics.

The audience, a well-educated bunch who clearly knew many of the names mentioned, were captivated. Sassoon shares a fascinating fact about Elvis Presley: despite not being Jewish himself, over 100 of his songs were written by Jewish writers. He points out that before Elvis, it was the songwriter who was famous, and the singer was almost an afterthought. After Elvis, that flipped, and the singer became the star. This evolution culminates in the rise of the singer-songwriter in the 1960s, a concept that now feels so familiar.

A Masterful Performance

Jeremy Sassoon is a performer of the highest calibre. His voice is rich and soulful, his piano skills dazzling, and his charisma as a frontman is undeniable. He masterfully adapts songs from a diverse range of artists, from Paul Simon and Billy Joel to Amy Winehouse, all performed in his distinctive style. While the arrangements are a bit slower and have a more masculine voice than the originals, they are a complete joy. He even treats the audience to a rendition of Billy Joel’s ‘Piano Man’, a choice that feels particularly appropriate given his own instrumental prowess.

The solo, ‘unplugged’ format of the show is a perfect showcase for Sassoon’s talent. It feels personal and allows his passion for the music to shine through. He mentions over 50 different composers and singer-songwriters throughout the hour, sharing hilarious anecdotes and little-known facts that keep the audience engaged from start to finish. It’s the kind of show you walk out of with a sense of awe and a desire to learn more – I, for one, will be reading up on Gershwin and the Brill Building.

Overall

Jeremy Sassoon’s MOJO (Unplugged) is an illuminating, uplifting, and joy-filled hour of entertainment. It’s an evening that feels both musically entertaining and genuinely educational, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the vast contributions of Jewish artists to our musical landscape. The venue, with its high ceilings and stunning chandelier, is the perfect setting for such a polished and professional performance. This show is a must-see for music lovers, and with MOJO 2 already on the way, it’s clear that Sassoon is an artist to watch. A truly educational and musically entertaining night.