Adrian Utley, Civilistjävel!, Fergus Jones, ELDON, and Withdrawn have crossed paths in numerous ways: one releasing the other’s music, appearing on each other’s albums, and by having mutual connections to Bristol. This ensemble takes collaboration seriously. Come experience how that sounds when these experimental musicians fuse the slow beats, poetic rap, and fluid trip-hop that each of them is known for into one collective, improvised performance.
Adrian Utley
Guitarist Adrian Utley is best known from the iconic band Portishead. Before meeting Geoff Barrow and Beth Gibbons – members of the group often hailed as pioneers of the trip-hop genre – Adrian Utley had played in everything from cabaret acts to holiday camp bands. He later immersed himself in jazz music, then electronic music, and hip-hop. Adrian Utley is often described as a “sound shaper” because of his unique ability to craft raw yet refined soundscapes – or making an absolute racket.
A mixtape-like vibe, slow beats, and close collaborations define Fergus Jones’ 2024 debut album Ephemera, which features members of the Cold Light crew, including Birthmark, ELDON, and Withdrawn. On the track “Tight Knit,” Fergus Jones’ smooth productions meet the raw, emotional lyricism of the rappers. Formerly known as Perko, Fergus Jones is based in Copenhagen but is hyped internationally for his electronic music.
Swedish artist Civilistjävel! is renowned for his atmospheric soundscapes. Last year, Tomas Bodén, the man behind Civilistjävel!, released the album Brödfoda on Fergus Jones’ label FELT. The album includes contributions from ELDON and Withdrawn on the heavy, poetic, rambling, and dub track “VIII.”
Cold Light is an avant-rap crew from Bristol that includes rappers ELDON and Withdrawn. ELDON is celebrated for his poetic lyricism, and Withdrawn is known for his experimental take on hip-hop.