Orbits – the innovative new project from Norwegian jazz-rock icon Lars Horntveth, producer Erlend Mokkelbost, and vocalist Natalie Sandtorv – have just unveiled their debut EP Bad Mantras, following a promising start earlier this year with the single “Synthetic Sweetness.” The release is a captivating, genre-defying journey that pushes the boundaries of jazz, pop, and experimental music.
The band, whose origins trace back to a commissioned piece for the Moldejazz festival in 2022, quickly gained attention with a thrilling performance at the sold-out Oslo Jazz Festival. Their sound is a seamless fusion of diverse influences—R&B, noise, punk, indie rock, and jazz—all coming together in a way that feels natural and exhilarating. The members bring their eclectic backgrounds to the project: Horntveth, known for his work with Jaga Jazzist, Susanne Sundfør, and A-ha; Mokkelbost, who has produced for Honningbarna and Sandra Kolstad; and Sandtorv, the voice behind Neon Ion.
Bad Mantras takes listeners into an expansive sonic world, where orchestral elements and experimental sounds collide with catchy pop hooks. The EP is centered around two tracks that stretch over 20 minutes, each a rich tapestry of instrumental breaks, intricate arrangements, and Sandtorv’s breathtaking vocals. With a sound that draws inspiration from Brazilian composer Arthur Verocai and composers like Philip Glass, Orbits’ music feels both avant-garde and accessible. The EP also features standout moments, such as the “best organ solo” Sandtorv has ever heard, courtesy of Zack Tenorio (Arc Iris), who adds depth with his Hammond B3 playing.
Describing the experience of the EP, Sandtorv says, “It’s definitely a zoomed-in experience… it’s a bit dreamy, it takes its time. It’s definitely abstract and gives the spotlight to the musicians.” The title Bad Mantras reflects the personal insecurities that, like mantras, are often repeated in one’s mind, adding a layer of introspective depth to the record.
Bad Mantras is available now on vinyl, with a full-length album scheduled for release in February 2025.