New music from Periscopi Invertit

London-based ensemble Periscopi Invertit, helmed by the exceptionally talented composer, arranger and bass player called Mireia, delivers a musical experience built on cultural diversity and sonic exploration. Having graduated from the Escola Superior de Música de Catalunya in 2010, Mireia’s journey as a bass player stems from her roots in Catalonia and now the music scene of London. Periscopi Invertit’s musical output takes traditional folk melodies and wraps them in elements of jazz, funk and Latin music, resulting in a highly original sound.

In 2021, Periscopi Invertit made their debut with the single “El Poder del Cant.” Last year, they continued to make an impact with their sophomore efforts, “Ball pla de Tirig” and “Ball Pla de Lladurs,” all while crafting the music for their highly anticipated debut album.

Now they kick off 2024 with a brand new release, bringing us another rework of a Catalan folk classic. Usually performed during La Patum de Berga, a UNESCO status open air four day celebration, the song “Ball de l’àliga” is the latest traditional piece to be given the Periscopi Invertit treatment, an approach that thoughtfully pays respect to the original composition while framing it in an entirely new setting.

This time setting a reggae-inspired groove, the band takes the melodies from the timeless piece and stitches them into a bright and breezy jam. Brimming with smooth rhythm and packed with vibrant instrumentation, Periscopi Invertit’s rendition of “Ball de l’àliga” is a stunning display of their musicianship and imagination.

Starting off with a mellow vibe of laid back drums, pulsing bass guitar lines and elegant flute lines, the song gently weaves through a mellow folk fusion scene with delicate plucked instrumental work backs up the leads. Shifting energy half way, stuttered rhythms underpin the dancing of the lead instrumentation before settling back into the reggae groove as slick bluesy electric piano flourishes take over, backed by the colour of steel pan tones.

Building to a crescendo of lively drum work and fluttering lead lines, “Ball de l’àliga” sees Periscopi Invertit deliver another stellar rework of an old piece of music, presented for a modern audience. Translated from Catalan, the song title means “dance of the eagle,” an animal that represents power, dignity, peace and justice in Catalan culture while also taking on a personal meaning for the band members, symbolising their own fight against injustice in the world.

Listen to Ball de l’àliga below

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