Knee-Deep in the North Sea cover

Knee-Deep in the North Sea

Portico Quartet · 2007

50 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A seamless blend of jazz, electronic elements, and world music textures that invites introspection.

Why this album works

The album received critical acclaim and was nominated for the Mercury Prize in 2008, highlighting its significance within contemporary jazz. It is often credited with popularizing a new wave of jazz that incorporated modern electronic sounds, influencing a generation of musicians within the genre.
Best for
long, immersive listening sessions steady, consistent energy levels gradual builds and payoffs
Context
Released in 2007, 'Knee-Deep in the North Sea' marked Portico Quartet's debut album. At this point, they were establishing their unique sound that combined jazz improvisation with experimental electronic influences. The album set the stage for their subsequent work and helped define the nu-jazz movement emerging in the UK.
Stylistic neighbors
Hiromi Uehara· Sade Adu· Cannonball Adderley

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 News From Verona Standout 4:24
  • 2 Zavodovski Island 4:22
  • 3 Knee-Deep in the North Sea Standout 4:52
  • 4 Too Many Cooks 5:32
  • 5 Steps in the Wrong Direction 6:09
  • 6 Monsoon: Top to Bottom 4:14
  • 7 The Kon Tiki Expedition 4:29
  • 8 Cittàgazze 4:47
  • 9 Pompidou Standout 12:02

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata