The Comet Is Coming Unearth Archival Songs for Channel the Spirits Reissue

A decade after their influential debut, The Comet Is Coming is set to release an extensive reissue commemorating the 10th anniversary of Channel the Spirits. This collection not only revisits the Mercury Prize-nominated album but also compiles key EPs from the era and introduces previously unheard recordings to their audience.

The London-based trio, comprised of Shabaka Hutchings alongside Danalogue and Betamax, played a pivotal role in shaping the jazz landscape in the 2010s. Their sound, known for blending cosmic jazz with electronic elements, captured the vibrancy and experimental spirit of the city's underground music scene. The forthcoming reissue, titled Exploding in Slow Motion: the Complete Channel the Spirits Recordings 2013-2017CE, is scheduled for release on November 20 through Leaf.

This expanded edition consolidates the original album with the Prophecy and Death to the Planet EPs, offering a comprehensive overview of the group’s early creative output. Crucially, it features four tracks that have never before been released, including “Late Night Party Jam 2,” a piece recorded at the Total Refreshment Centre. This venue, which has a storied reputation within London’s music community, served as the group’s de facto home base, hosting numerous performances that helped cultivate their distinctive sound.

Shabaka Hutchings has reflected on the significance of this period, highlighting how the initial energy captured on the album evolved through extensive live performances. The reissue thus serves as a sonic document of a specific cultural moment, evoking memories of packed warehouse parties and vibrant club nights where the trio’s music resonated deeply with audiences.

The Comet Is Coming’s trajectory took a turn in 2023 when they announced their separation. Their final planned concert was cancelled in solidarity with a political cause, demonstrating the band’s engagement beyond music. Following this, Hutchings embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album, Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace, in the subsequent year.

Exploding in Slow Motion presents a detailed tracklist that chronicles the group’s exploratory journey through jazz, electronic, and psychedelic sounds. The inclusion of live sessions and alternate versions enriches the narrative, granting listeners insight into the band’s dynamic range and improvisational prowess.

By revisiting a critical chapter in their career, The Comet Is Coming offers both longtime fans and new listeners a chance to experience the foundational works that helped define a decade of innovation in British jazz. This reissue reaffirms their lasting impact and preserves the legacy of a band that captured the imagination of a generation.

While additional details about the reissue’s packaging and promotional activities remain limited, the release stands as a testament to The Comet Is Coming’s enduring influence and the vitality of London’s jazz scene during the 2010s.