Uncut (p.91) - 4 stars out of 5 -- "[With] slick meditative grooves....This confirms the group remain cinematic by nature and name."
The Cinematic Orchestra: Eska, Heidi Vogel (vocals, background vocals); Lou Rhodes, Grey Reverend (vocals); Stuart McCallum (electric guitar); Tom Chant (soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); Nick Ramm (piano, Fender Rhodes piano, synthesizer); Jason Swinscoe (keyboards, laptop); Phil France (synthesizer, double bass); Luke Flowers (drums); Patrick Carpenter (electronics, turntables); Vula (background vocals).
Additional personnel: Heritage Orchestra.
Is Cinematic Orchestra leader Jason Swinscoe a model for the contemporary maestro, or does his surrounding talent illuminate the simplicity of his contribution? The answer after listening to LIVE: Who cares? This is a supremely moving piece of music that suggests the listener's foolishness for not being there. Swinscoe's expanded Orchestral ensemble allows him to segue from acoustic grace to flittering acid-jazz and back to a middle ground of soulful grooves guided by superlative vocals. The best part is, while it engenders envy, LIVE's intent is to replicate the one-of-a-kind experience in your bedroom, not taunt you for missing the show.