Ishmael Ensemble

“Ishmael Ensemble's third album, 'Rituals', set for release in September 2024, marks an important evolution for the Bristol group. Known for their blend of live instrumentation and electronic elements, their new album expands their musical boundaries beyond the 'new UK jazz' label. 'Rituals' combines spiritual jazz, dub, experimental and electronic music into vibrant, psychedelic sounds that are both accessible and complex. Their Rituals tour will start at the end of this year and they will be in BIRD on Saturday November 9!

Founded in 2017 by producer and saxophonist Pete Cunningham, Ishmael Ensemble achieved early fame with their debut album 'A State Of Flow' and reached a wider audience with their 2021 album 'Visions of Light'. The latter album received critical acclaim and extensive touring opportunities. 'Rituals' captures the energy of post-lockdown life, featuring recordings from El Ganzo studio in Mexico and Real World Studios in the UK, produced with Ali Staton. The album opens with the dynamic 'C'mon', and features songs like 'Blinded' and 'Ezekiel' that demonstrate empowerment and resilience. Influences of dubstep, drum & bass, and acid techno are evident in songs like 'Grounded', 'Fever Dream', 'Leviathan', and 'Madrid'. The emotional core of the album is emphasized in songs such as 'Dust & Butterflies', 'Cold Light', and 'In Time', which reflect Ishmael Ensemble's personal experiences over the past three years.

Line up:

Pete Cunningham – Vocals, Saxophone, Synths

Holysseus Fly – Vocals, Piano, Keys

Stephen Mullins – Guitars

Jake Spurgeon – Bass, Synths

Rory O'Gorman – Drums, Percussion