Soft Machine is returning to Cosmopolite—a reunion you won't want to miss! After a brilliant concert in Oslo in 2018, the legendary British quartet is back on our intimate stage on Friday, May 16. Whether you remember the band's golden era in the Canterbury scene or are a new listener seeking an encounter with jazz, psychedelia, and free improvisation, this will be an evening full of surprises.
The name Soft Machine was chosen by founder Daevid Allen, inspired by William S. Burroughs' novel of the same name—a title that also refers to the human body itself: a "soft machine." Since the late 1960s, the band has served as a link between psychedelic rock, jazz, and experimental music, standing as one of the most distinctive and influential ensembles in British music history.
"We were a group of like-minded musicians from Canterbury who loved jazz, songwriting, and English dry humor. We wanted to create something forward-looking and artistically ambitious—but also playful and fun," says guitarist John Etheridge, who has been with the band since 1975.
New Doors and Old Treasures
The band's latest album, Other Doors, blends newly written compositions with material dating back to their debut album in 1968. "It's about embracing our entire history," says Etheridge. "Bringing out a song from the first album and playing it with today's lineup creates a beautiful connection between past and present."
Today's Soft Machine consists, in addition to Etheridge, of Theo Travis (saxophones and flute), Fred Baker (bass), and Asaf Sirkis (drums)—all outstanding jazz musicians with broad musical horizons.
"The band is the sum of its parts, plus a little extra," says Etheridge.
Return Visit to Cosmopolite
Soft Machine last visited Cosmopolite in 2018 and remembers it as one of the highlights of their career. "It was a fantastic audience, great atmosphere, and a top-notch organizing team. We're really looking forward to coming back," says Etheridge.
This time, the band brings a wide repertoire that spans two new albums and several classics from earlier eras. "We vary the content from concert to concert, so no performance is exactly the same. But one thing is certain: It will be a journey through sound and emotions—a experience we hope will uplift and move the audience."
Although no specific songs have been set aside especially for the Norwegian audience, Etheridge emphasizes that the band has great respect for Norway's musical heritage. "I've played and toured with Arild Andersen, and Theo has collaborated with Anja Garbarek. Norway has an impressive music culture, and we feel at home here."
Freedom in the Moment
Improvisation remains at the core of Soft Machine's expression. "We like to throw ourselves into the unknown—both on stage and in the studio. About half of the music we play is improvised, and that allows for magical moments."
"We hope the audience comes to experience just that: a musical journey through textures, rhythms, and moods—that can only happen here and now."
After the concert in Oslo, the band will continue touring with the new material before returning to the studio. "We've just completed recording a new album to be released later this year. But when we're on stage, it's all about that moment—about the connection with the audience."
Where to Begin?
For those new to Soft Machine, Etheridge recommends the album Hidden Details as an entry point. "It represents much of what we stand for—jazz, rock, improvisation, and intensity. And it's, quite simply, very good music."
Soft Machine will perform at Cosmopolite Scene in Oslo on Friday, May 16, 2025.
For more details and ticket information - Click here
We are excited to welcome Achy Ouafik as our new Communications Manager! Achy joins us from Oslo World, where he was the PR Manager for one of Europe's leading world music festivals.
The excellent polish bass-player Kinga Głyk, who will perform at Cosmopolite on the International Women’s Day on March 8th, got the opportunity to lead her band at a young age. This experience helped her become more confident and aware of her own opinions and desires. As a result, it made her a better person, she says in this interview.