Saturday 16 May 2025
ISQ is the creative moniker of critically acclaimed jazz vocalist and singer-songwriter Irene Serra (vocals, electronics). This London-based quartet seamlessly blends jazz-pop with groove-driven rhythms, rich melodies, and evocative storytelling, carving out a distinctive space in the UK jazz scene. With elements of rock and electronic music woven into their sound, and Serra’s vocals described as “Billie Holiday meets Kate Bush,” ISQ delivers an experience of rare intensity.
Now in their 14th year, with four acclaimed albums to their name, ISQ returns to the stage with fresh arrangements of their most beloved songs—alongside an exclusive preview of material from their upcoming fifth album!
Irene Serra’s ISQ are a critically acclaimed London-based quartet that blends uplifting, elegant jazz-pop with powerful lyrics and Nordic jazz sensibilities. Featuring Richard Sadler on double bass (Neil Cowley Trio), Chris Nickolls on drums (Andy Sheppard, Jean Toussaint, Ola Onabulé), and newest member Luca Boscagin on guitar (Jason Rebello, Cinematic Orchestra, Jim Mullen), ISQ pushes the boundaries of the conventional jazz quartet.
Their second studio album, “Too”, was a Time Out London Critics’ Choice in 2015, cementing their reputation as a force in contemporary jazz. Their third album, “Requiem for The Faithful”, led to a nationwide 22-date UK tour in 2019. In 2022, they released “Requiem for The Faithful 2.0: The Remixes”, an electrifying LP featuring reimagined tracks by international award-winning producers, including Arthur Baker, Dave Randall (Faithless), and EMMANUELLE (2 Many DJs).
ISQ are currently recording their fifth album, “The Silence Is Deafening”, set for release in March 2026. With a bold shift from the traditional piano-led lineup, the album embraces guitar and electronics to create a “soundscape that perceives a noir jazz meets Massive Attack aesthetic. Utterly brilliant!” – Imran Mirza, Blue in Green.
Line up:
Irene Serra – vocals and synth
Luca Boscagin – guitar and electronics
Richard Sadler - bass
Chris Nickolls – drums and electronics
“...Sublime Vocals...” - Jazz FM
**** “…Performed midway between jazz and soul mode, Serra occupies terrain Billie Holiday would find familiar; Sade too…” Jazzwise
“...A group who hone in on the soulful possibilities offered by improvisatory music…” - Clash Magazine
"...Their arrangements draw on jazz, rock and electronic music, using the skills of the band’s individuals to the fullest, in music which is uniquely theirs..." - London Jazz News
Video 1 (“Stone” – live sessions at Alice’s Loft): ISQ - STONE | LIVE SESSIONS AT ALICE'S LOFT - YouTube
