Cosmicorus

Cosmicorus are a harmony singing group led by composer and musical director Ildikó Kerék. Their work combines choral music with psychedelic soul and science-fiction imagery, with influences that range from Debussy and Rotary Connection to Vangelis and the visual language of films such as 2001: A Space Odyssey. Kerék studies classical piano and jazz composition, and later graduates in experimental sound alongside Alice Russell and Bonobo. She also has collaboration credits with Paloma Faith and the jazz group Led Bib, which receives Mercury Prize nominations.

Performance style and repertoire

The group’s performances include arrangements of Vaughan Williams and a live version of the Star Trek theme. Their presentation often uses stripped-back acoustic settings, visual material, and sci-fi sound effects. They are described as working in both intimate underground spaces and larger festival settings, with a sound built around layered vocals and an otherworldly choral approach.

Appearances and collaborations

Cosmicorus appear at a wide range of venues and events, including the Royal Festival Hall, the Roundhouse, Glastonbury Festival with Legendary Lost Vagueness, and candlelit churches across London. They also support the vocal trio the Puppini Sisters and the Mercury Prize-nominated Portico Quartet, and perform with Lisa Knapp, who wins a Mojo Award for folk music.

Reception

The group receives praise for originality and for using the human voice in inventive ways. Commentators associate their sound with floaty, choral pop and with a cinematic, dreamlike atmosphere.