An orchestra from another place
Orchestra of Spheres is a band that defies definition in choosing to follow the sound rather than a particular genre, and it’s coming to Palmerston North.
The Wellington band is about to embark on a three-stop tour, playing first at an After Hours gig at the Wellington Museum, followed by a Paekākāriki performance at St Peter’s Village Hall and then ending up at Palmerston North’s Snails: Artist run space.
Orchestra of Spheres uses handmade or re-imagined instruments and calls on many genres as its influences, from free jazz to dance music.
The band has built a cult-like following since forming in 2009 and is known for its onstage costuming, lighting and projection.
Band member Nell Thomas said every gig was different.
‘‘We are not into replicating perfect renditions of recorded tacks live. For us, we appreciate it when every set is a bit different. If things are feeling a bit tight we will just open it up and see where it goes.’’
Orchestra of Spheres also runs the artist run-space The Pyramid Club in Wellington and Thomas said the band was looking forward to playing at the Palmerston North space that followed a similar ethos.
‘‘It’s super nice to have a chance to stretch out to Palmerston North and see their space and meeting some new people. It’s really exciting.
‘‘I’m also looking forward to playing with the other acts.’’
In Palmerston North the band will play with Beware the Moon and Buffalo Bunny, who will be making its debut performance.
Orchestra of Spheres will play at Palmerston North’s Snails: Artist run space on February 16.