The Red Book

‘The Red Book’, the sophomore release from the freshly reimagined Penguin Cafe, is the culmination of two years work that has seen Arthur Jeffes son of original composer and PCO founder Simon Jeffes investigate whole new areas of sound and vibrancy, marking an ambitious extension from their debut ‘A Matter of Life’ (2011).

The catalyst for the new recording came about when Arthur Jeffes worked on a project with the International Space Orchestra and NASA Ames in 2012, out of which came the pieces Aurora and 1420, which have since been beamed into space as part of NASA’s Kepler project. These touchstones marked a ‘satellitic’ beginning for a new album, a collection of songs that would then return to earth to undertake a rich, crosscontinental, musical journey.

Arthur Jeffes explains – “The intention was really to create musical pictures and colourful soundscapes, channelling music and traditions from around the globe, but then possibly set through a more English filter. The first album, I think, was about establishing our own sound and identity, dusting out and reopening the Cafe so to speak, but with The Red Book I think this is a grand new departure and ambition to sonically chart an imagined journey through the world and across the globe. I guess this would be the map of that idea.”

“Penguin Cafe continues to occupy a unique place in music: nothing else has ever sounded quite like it. Eccentric, charming, accommodating, surprising, seductive, warm, reliable, modest and unforgettable… it’s a true friend” Brian Eno, February 2010

“An endlessly repeatable mood music masterpiece” ???? Q Magazine

“Culturally omnivorous instrumentals of considerable elegance and ingenuity” ???? Mojo

“A thing of rare beauty… insanely melodic instrumental treats” ???? The Sun

“The Penguins are back on top form” ???? Daily Telegraph

“Appealingly chaotic, shantytown minimalism” The Guardian

“Chamber pop classics” Time Out