Mammal Hands: Circadia

The album title Circadia reflects themes of renewal and change rooted in the cyclical patterns of life. For the English trio Mammal Hands, change is the keyword: this sixth release marks a significant step in their evolution. Their move to the Act Music label represents a notable shift, one that may broaden their visibility while giving fresh impetus to their musical independence.

Equally significant is the arrival of new drummer, Rob Turner, formerly of GoGo Penguin, who joined the band following the departure of Jesse Barrett in 2024. Turner brings heavier beats to the band's signature blend of hypnotic jazz, post-rock and folk, pioneered by the two constants in the lineup, brothers Nick Smart on piano and Jordan Smart on saxophone.

The change to the rhythmic backbone is apparent on the opening track, "Window To Your World." Turner's energetic beats soon join warm, single piano notes in the introduction. Any concern that the music might tip into frenetic territory is quickly dispelled as Jordan Smart's keening saxophone style weaves textural layers with the piano and synth bass, building moments of intensity balanced by melody and improvisation.

There is an air of mystery that builds in "Alia's Abandon." The sax melody accelerates through repeating piano motifs as the drums drive the pace until, in one of the album's significant moments, the piano breaks through in an attention-grabbing moment of drama before the pace rebuilds.

Away from the pace, the band builds a soundscape that is cinematic and immersive, often combining cyclical, melodic patterns. This comes to the fore in "Helios" with its repeating, lilting, folky phrases and gently intricate rhythm. "Fallow Tide" mixes light electronica with birdsong and "A Thread In The Dark" builds textures through pastoral piano and gently keening sax.

There is a mesmeric ebb and flow in "Forgotten Friend" as the band builds an atmospheric soundscape with plaintive sax notes carrying a hint of Middle Eastern tones. This contrasts with the sinister feel that builds in "Submerge" as driving, pulsing piano and swooping sax produce a dark and dramatic end to the album.

Mammal Hands' wide-ranging influences have earned them an international following, particularly among a younger audience for whom this often represents an entry point to the sound of modern jazz. The band's evolution into a more beat-driven sound suffused with electronica seems certain to broaden that appeal. With its hypnotic mix of loops, cinematic soundscapes and surges of rock-derived intensity, this is an album that rewards repeated plays and seems to improve each time.

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