SUBMOTION ORCHESTRA IN THE CITY SOUNDS SERIES

27 APRIL 2018

Since their unforgettable debut, Submotion Orchestra have established themselves on the European scene as one of the most interesting bands successfully combining downtempo, jazz, trip-hop and contemporary bass sounds. While making superb use of sampling, they have always emphasised musicianship and stage presentation. No wonder the English ensemble became renowned as an excellent live collective. Their latest record, “Kites”, returns to the recipe that brought deserved success and made “The Finest Hours” a cult favourite: smoky jazz mixed with intriguing electronic sounds.

Leader Tommy Evans explains: “A great deal has happened since ‘Colour Theory’, including personally, from new family members’ births to painful farewells to loved ones. Life inspired this new album, honest, personal and emotional. Looking through our photographs, we selected ten capturing different moments and feelings. Those images prompted writing and recording ‘Kites’ ten compositions. We wanted an honest, sincere and beautiful record.”

They have certainly succeeded, because Submotion Orchestra have not sounded this convincing for a long time. These sounds remind us why Simon Green (Bonobo) himself once fell in love with their music and invited singer Ruby Wood to perform with him. “Kites” also echoes classic influences, from Massive Attack to The Cinematic Orchestra and even Sade. Their rare ability to combine musical virtuosity with accessibility makes it possible to fall for Submotion Orchestra from the very first bars.