IKARUS is a contemporary groove jazz quintet that explores permutating polyrhythms against a framework of functional grooves and melodies, using improvisation as a key vehicle. Their sound is built around the mesmeric qualities of a blend of two vocals and driving rhythmic sections deployed with the intent of having a kinetic effect on the human body. They are on Nik Bärtsch’s boutique label Ronin Rhythm Records (fourth album in Feb. 2022) and they have done extensive touring in Europe and Japan. Supported by Pro Helvetia, Ikarus are one of the flagship bands of the Swiss jazz scene. Five instrumentalists who figured out how to maintain their individual voices while becoming one: a seamless, highly malleable substance.

Ramón Oliveras (artistic director, dr), Andreas Lareida (voc), Anna Hirsch (voc), Lucca Fries (p), Mo Meyer (db)