SUBMOTION ORCHESTRA
Koko, Camden | October 12th
Excuse us while we gush, but the soul cleansing loveliness that is Submotion Orchestra is truly something to behold. The level of musical sincerity and intelligence in what the eight-piece Leeds act deliver is genuinely inspiring. Crack had to be present at their largest London show to date, yet another great edition to the Soundcrash roster.
The atmosphere at Koko constituted of bated breath and anticipation, DJ Ruckspin and DJ Planas doing an excellent job of setting the crowd in the right groove with warm 2 step vibes and smooth dubstep. It was an appropriate entrée, a hefty compliment when playing before Submotion Orchestra.
Their sound is a perfect blend of jazz and instrumental dubstep, unique and refreshing, but simultaneously reminiscent of the classic trip-hop acts and Ninja Tune sounds of old. The act have not long released their second album Fragments on Exceptional Records, and even though only formed in 2009, sound like they share one mind.
This no doubt has a lot to do with each individual member being massively talented, well-seasoned and constantly engrossed in other musical projects. Every element plays a major role in navigating the sound between melancholy vibes and dance commanding bass tones. Ruby Wood’s vocals are enchanting, blessed with an amazing range and incorporating inventive use of echo effects adding to the magic. A charming and humble demeanour when addressing the crowd also contributes to an appreciative atmosphere, members of the audience singing along when breath is caught between dancing.
This is an act that have everything worth having, and what started as an experimental live project still possesses that element of flux and possibility. There is nothing stagnant about their sound or performance. A band you can listen to all the time, anywhere, but a live act you must experience at least once in your lifetime.
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Words: Claude Barbé-Brown
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