Description
#porticoquartet #vinyl #vinylrecords
Portico Quartet, the innovative instrumental group from London, returned in 2017 with a self-titled album that further solidified their reputation for blending modern jazz with ambient and minimalist influences. Known for their use of the hang, a contemporary percussion instrument, the band has always pushed the boundaries of genre, creating a sound that is both distinctive and evocative. Their latest offering, released on the Gondwana Records label, continues this tradition, weaving together elements of 90s trip hop, ambient textures reminiscent of William Basinski, and classical music into a seamless and captivating listening experience.
The band, consisting of Duncan Bellamy on drums and electronics, Jack Wyllie on saxophones and keyboards, Milo Fitzpatrick on bass, and Keir Vine on keyboards, has been honing their craft for over a decade. Their unique approach to composition and performance has earned them critical acclaim, including a Mercury Prize nomination for their debut album Knee-Deep in the North Sea in 2008. With their 2017 release, Portico Quartet delves deeper into the cinematic potential of their music, creating tracks that are expansive and immersive, drawing listeners into a rich auditory landscape.
Each member of the group brings a distinct element to the table, contributing to the band’s layered and intricate sound. Bellamy, who also handles all of the band’s artwork and graphic design, plays a key role in shaping the visual and auditory aesthetic of the group. His background in fine art from Central Saint Martins is evident in the meticulous attention to detail that characterizes both the music and the album’s presentation. This holistic approach to their craft sets Portico Quartet apart from many of their contemporaries, as they create not just music, but an entire experience for their audience.
Portico Quartet’s 2017 album is a testament to their evolution as artists and their commitment to exploring new sonic territories. The band’s ability to blend different genres and influences into a cohesive whole is reminiscent of the work of other genre-defying artists such as Bonobo and The Cinematic Orchestra. As they continue to innovate and push the boundaries of their sound, Portico Quartet remains a vital and influential force in the world of contemporary instrumental music.
