Idrîsî Ensemble: A Bold Reinvention of Medieval Music for the Modern Era
In a striking departure from conventional perceptions, the Idrîsî Ensemble is revolutionizing medieval music, challenging stereotypes of it as smooth, pious, and soporific. Based in London, this dynamic group, which can swell to up to 19 members, harnesses the raw power of song to evoke profound and contemporary anguish, reminding listeners of music's timeless ability to convey fresh pain.
Origins and Inspiration
The ensemble's journey began in 2016 when Thomas Fournil, a Corsican composer studying at the Guildhall School of Music, became deeply engrossed in the ancient musical traditions of his homeland. Fascinated by pre-modern notation and intricate, trembling embellishments, he gathered college friends to explore these sounds. However, Fournil's vision was never about mere historical replication; instead, he sought to breathe new life into these age-old repertoires.
Female Voices and Political Undertones
A key innovation lies in the group's vocal composition. Traditionally male-dominated, these medieval songs have been recast for mixed voices, with Idrîsî's distinct female vocalists—drawn from diverse backgrounds in pop, jazz, and multinational folk traditions—becoming a central attraction. Their work carries a political edge, celebrating the trobairitz, the bold and subversive female troubadours of 12th-century Occitania. Their recent single, Dieus Sal la Terra, a paghjella crafted by Fournil for mixed voices, was performed in solidarity with those fighting to remain on their ancestral lands.
Deepening Artistic Practice
The ensemble's connection to their craft continues to deepen. Emulating Corsican singers, they often perform in a horseshoe formation, arms linked, without reliance on sheet music. Accompanied by drones from a portative organ—a handheld instrument with a funky side bellow—and a vielle, a medieval fiddle, they weave expressive and ornate vocal lines. Unlike many British vocal ensembles that prioritize seamless blends, Idrîsî's sound is intentionally coarser and spikier. Improvisation plays a crucial role, and when they move in unison, it is with a deliberate, heavy reluctance, as if burdened by centuries-old sorrow.
This Week's Top New Tracks
In other music news, several standout releases have emerged. Underscores delivers Tell Me (U Want It), marking a third consecutive perfect single ahead of a highly anticipated pop album, blending sweet melodies with brostep flourishes. The Womack Sisters, with their rich musical heritage, offer You Went Away Too Long, a vintage soul ballad charged with emotional depth. Friends& presents Man of Constant Sorrow, a highlight from their extensive album Folx, featuring AI voices and eclectic samples for a twee-core experience. Terror remains energized after 25 years with Still Suffer, a hardcore track full of raw emotion. Squarepusher's K2 Central showcases a concerto for bass guitar, while Maria BC's Rare from her new album Marathon captivates with ethereal vocals. John Carroll Kirby returns with Suntory, offering zen-like lounge jazz.
