Ikarus - Plasma [CD]

On Ikarus' fourth full-length record, 'Plasma' marks a major shift for the band - away from the sonically "immersive" and towards an almost tactile, physical quality of sound: the type that is associated with functional electronica: this is also Ikarus at their most affecting, playful, and fluent. <p>The rhythmic and harmonic equations found in the compositions are as complex as ever - on "Altaelva" the time signature changes from 7/4 to 6/4 to 5/4 respectively - but their delivery is marked by a lightness and infused with a spectral gradient of emotion. The fact that this is the work of a seasoned quintet has a lot to do with this; but this record is also the first in the band's catalogue where the songs were developed collectively. <p>Ikarus is a contemporary jazz quintet that explores permutating polyrhythms against a framework of functional grooves and melodies, using improvisation as a key vehicle. Their sound is built around the mesmeric qualities of a blend of two vocals and driving rhythmic sections deployed with the intent of having a kinetic effect on the human body. They are: Ramón Oliveras (drums, artistic director), Anna Hirsch (vocals), Andreas Lareida (vocals), Lucca Fries (piano), and Mo Meyer (upright bass). All of their LPs have ben released on Nik Bärtsch's boutique label Ronin Rhythm Records. They toured Europe and Japan extensively and are considered one of the flagship groups of the Swiss jazz scene.