Isq [jazz/pop/electronica]

“…sublime vocals…” – Jazz FM
 

“…Performed midway between jazz and soul mode, Serra occupies terrain Billie Holiday would find familiar; Sade too…” – JAZZWISE
 

“…A group who hone in on the soulful possibilities offered by improvisatory music…” –  Clash Magazine
 

ISQ is the brainchild of Irene Serra on vocals/electronics (Wynton Marsalis, Norma Winstone, US3) and Richard Sadler on double bass/electronics (founding member of the Neil Cowley Trio). With Chris Nickolls on drums (Andy Sheppard, Jean Touissant, Ola Onabule) and newest band member Luca Boscagin on guitar (Jason Rebello, Cinematic Orchestra, Jim Mullen), this quartet takes the conventional jazz line-up as a mere starting point.
 

ISQ combine uplifting, groovy jazz-pop songs with powerful lyrics and are undoubtedly one of the most original bands on the scene. With shades of rock and electronic music and Serra’s vocal performances described as “Billie Holiday meets Kate Bush”, this crossover jazz outfit’s unique use of beautiful melodies, space and exciting dynamics coupled with Serra’s raw and evocative lyrics weave stories of a rare intensity

Their second studio album “Too” was a Time Out London Critics Choice in 2015 and has seen them firmly establish a reputation as an emerging force in both creativity and performance. Their third release “Requiem For The Faithful” marked their first ever UK tour in 2019 with 22 dates across the country. Their latest album, “Requiem For The Faithful 2.0: The Remixes”, is an LP featuring international award-winning DJs and producers from around the world. Released in May 2022, the album is an exciting compilation of remixed songs from the original LP featuring international award-winning DJs and producers such as Arthur Baker, Dave Randall (Faithless) and EMMANUELLE (2 Many DJs). ISQ are currently recording their 5th album, “The Silence Is Deafening”, due for release in 2025.
 

In their 12th year since the release of their debut album and with a body of work that includes 4 critically acclaimed albums, ISQ’s performance tonight will include fresh arrangements of their most well-known tunes and a preview of new and exciting material from their forthcoming 5th album.
 

“…Their arrangements draw on jazz, rock and electronic music, using the skills of the band’s individuals to the full, in music which is uniquely theirs…” – London Jazz

Line up
Irene Serra – vocals/electronics
Richard Sadler : double bass/electronics
Luca Boscagin – guitar/electronics
Chris Nickolls – drums/electronics