Ikarus - Plasma

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.

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.

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: Ram�n 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 B�rtsch'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.