Abstract Orchestra
“Dynamite” - Gilles Peterson BBC6 Music/Worldwide (‘Air’)
“Abstract take on the classic hip-hop album MADVILLAIN and add freshness and colour” – QWEST TV (Quincy Jones)
“It sounds like my brother’s record…
“Dynamite” – Gilles Peterson BBC6 Music/Worldwide (‘Air’)
“Abstract take on the classic hip-hop album MADVILLAIN and add freshness and colour” – QWEST TV (Quincy Jones)
“It sounds like my brother’s record with respect to the pocket and swing of the music, yet they own it. They make it their own.” – Illa J (‘New Day’)
“I am all over this album. Its endearing, soulful and makes you grin, lots!” – UKVIBE.ORG
“These reworks bring extra depth and nuance to the originals while still standing as unique works in their own right” – Open ear
Abstract Orchestra is making some of the most exciting music in hip-hop, blending jazz orchestration with hip-hop beats and MC’s. The 18 piece all star big band creates unique music that is both heavy and beautiful, pushing the boundaries of live hip-hop. The band includes musicians that have toured with some of the top acts in the world including Jamiroquai, Corinne Bailey Rae, Mark Ronson, Amy Winehouse, John Legend & The Roots, Roots Manuva, Rag ’n’ bone Man, Adele, Estelle and Lily Allen. Along with their original work, Abstract Orchestra is well known for their masterful reinterpretations of hip-hop classics by legends that include J Dilla and MADVILLAIN, diversifying ways in which hip-hop can be enjoyed.
Abstract Orchestra have toured and recorded with MF DOOM, Slum Village, Illa J, Guilty Simpson, Blu, Young RJ, Megaran, Daru Jones, Eric Roberson, and have supported Yasiin Bey, Talib Kweli and The Zulu Nation
Abstract Orchestra explores the original samples used in classic hip hop joints, orchestrated across the ensemble, whilst matching the classic beats used by the greats such as J Dilla and Madlib. The group also explores a number of influential sounds favoured by the great hip-hop producers, such as Motown, Jazz, TV soundtrack and film scores. There is a strong influence of Quincy Jones, Lalo Schifrin and David Shire (The Taking of Pelham 123) and Paul Riser (Motown), and arranger Rob Mitchell crafts his own sound sitting somewhere comfortably between Madlib and Quincy Jones.
Their live sets can be equally dark and brooding as it can be beautiful and moving. Its high energy and high octane head nods for the full performance.