Music / Reviews
Review: Ishmael Ensemble, SWX – ‘Enchanting and immersive’
Bristol’s very own Ishmael Ensemble took to the stage at SWX for a night of genre-defying brilliance as they closed out their UK tour.
The band’s latest album, Rituals, marks a sharp divergence from their earlier, more jazzy work, instead embracing the infectious rhythms and pulsing beats of the world of dance music.
Charged with a sense of homecoming, the venue filled rapidly with a crowd ready to be swept into the group’s distinct soundscapes – a signature fusion of luscious jazz, electronic music and all things experimental.
is needed now More than ever
With the stage bathed in red, the band emerged to raucous applause. Saxophonist and frontman Pete Cunningham led the charge, weaving soulfully throughout the venue as the group opened with fan-favourite Feather.
The six-piece is led by experimental saxophonist Pete Cunningham
As the track draws to a close, Cunningham playfully explains to the audience that Rituals represents a new era for Ishmael ensemble – one that allows them to reinvent themselves.
With this in mind, he reaffirms that the crowd should expect a night of the impressive brand of atmospheric and bouncy dance-infused beats exhibited on the new album.
The band weave through many of the tracks from the album as the set goes on, enhanced by the otherworldly vocals and keyboard artistry of Holysseus Fly.
Tracks like C’mon and Blinded push Cunningham to his peak, pouring fervent energy into his saxophone as the crowd watch on in awe.
Acclaimted vocalist Holysseus Fly is also building a solid solo career
Dust takes a more steady and atmospheric approach, building tension and momentum before sending the crowd swaying to its hypnotic club beats.
The focus isn’t all on the new project though. The band hark back to their roots, playing acclaimed tracks like Visions of Light and The Gift, each piece unfolding with a rich, atmospheric depth that reminds the crowd of the group’s signature sound – ambient, soulful and deeply resonant.
As the set draws to a close, the group choose to forego an encore—a choice I wholeheartedly welcome. Encores feel increasingly outdated, their impact dulled over time, and it’s refreshing to see Ishmael Ensemble end on their own terms, leaving the energy intact.
One thing is for certain after the completion of the gig: this might not be the Ishmael Ensemble of old, but the music is just as enchanting and immersive as ever.
All images: Josh Templeman
Read next:
- ‘Bigger, louder, bolder’ – Ishmael Ensemble on their new sound and Bristol’s creative streak
- Review: Wall of Bass, The Underground – ‘An energetic and forward-thinking scene’
- Bristol families urged to ‘open hearts and homes’ to host touring choir
- Bristol24/7 is throwing a party you won’t want to miss!
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