The Plastic Jazz Orchestra: The UK's Electro-Jazz Fusion Pioneers

The Plastic Jazz Orchestra is a British collective that masterfully blends live jazz instrumentation with electronic production and dancefloor rhythms. Formed in Manchester in 2010, the group has carved a unique niche, with their 2018 album 'Synthetica' reaching number 12 on the UK Albums Chart and achieving a certified Silver sales status.

Early career

The ensemble was founded by producer and keyboardist Arlo Vance, who recruited a rotating cast of session musicians from Manchester's vibrant jazz and club scenes. Their self-released debut EP, 'Circuit Breaker', emerged in 2012, catching the ear of the independent label Future Classic Jazz. This led to a signing and their first full-length project, 2014's 'Neon Signals', which established their signature sound on the underground circuit.

Breakthrough

The Plastic Jazz Orchestra's mainstream breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their sophomore album, 'Synthetica'. Led by the infectious single 'Polymer Groove', the album's fusion of saxophone hooks and house music beats found a wide audience. 'Synthetica' spent 14 weeks on the UK chart, peaking at number 12 and earning a BPI Silver certification for over 60,000 copies sold.

Key tracks

Polymer Groove — This lead single from 'Synthetica' became their signature track, receiving heavy rotation on BBC Radio 6 Music and breaking into the UK Singles Chart Top 40.

Late Night Modules — A fan-favorite deep cut showcasing their improvisational jazz roots over a laid-back, broken beat.

Chrome Plated Heart — Featuring vocalist Taliya, this 2021 collaboration marked a successful foray into more soulful, song-oriented material.

Analog Dream — The lead single from their 2023 album 'Resonance', noted for its complex, shifting time signatures and live brass section.

Following the success of 'Synthetica', the group maintained momentum with high-profile collaborations, including production work for singer Jordan Rakei and a live studio session with DJ and broadcaster Gilles Peterson. Their third studio album, 2023's 'Resonance', debuted at number 8 on the UK Albums Chart, proving their consistent appeal and artistic evolution. The collective continues to be a major draw at international festivals, from Glastonbury to Montreux Jazz.

For listeners who enjoy The Plastic Jazz Orchestra's innovative blend of genres, similar artists featured on our site include GoGo Penguin who also merge acoustic piano trios with electronic sensibilities. Badbadnotgood shares a similar approach to reinterpreting hip-hop and electronic music through a jazz lens. The broken-beat influence connects them to the work of Kaidi Tatham. Furthermore, the lush, produced soundscapes of Portico Quartet offer a comparable auditory experience.

The music of The Plastic Jazz Orchestra is a staple on modern jazz and eclectic electronic radio stations across our network. Their tracks are frequently featured on specialist shows dedicated to fusion and new music, as well as in the daytime playlists of contemporary alternative radio stations seeking sophisticated, upbeat instrumentals.

You can discover the dynamic electro-jazz fusion of The Plastic Jazz Orchestra by tuning into the radio stations available on onairium.com, where their genre-defying sound is regularly in rotation.