London-based band Periscopi Invertit released their sixth single, Stella Splendens, an audacious reimagining of a 14th-century Catalan melody. This song, originally from the Llibre Vermell de Montserrat—one of the oldest surviving medieval manuscripts—was written by an anonymous monk and served as a musical guide for pilgrims at Montserrat Abbey. Now, centuries later, Periscopi Invertit has transformed it into a mesmerizing fusion of funk, jazz, and Mediterranean rhythms.
Led by the visionary bassist and composer Mireia Carbonell, Periscopi Invertit has skillfully bridged the gap between the mystical medieval world and the bustling materialistic present. Their rendition of Stella Splendens retains the essence of the original melody while embedding it within a groovy jazz-funk arrangement. The result is a dynamic interplay of ancient and modern, a sonic journey that feels timeless and contemporary all at once.
The recording of Stella Splendens brought together some of the finest performers from London’s multicultural music scene, ensuring a rich and diverse soundscape. Mastered at Sound-Ray Recordings, the track exudes a polished yet soulful vibe, showcasing Mireia Carbonell’s knack for blending Catalan folk melodies with the infectious energy of jazz, funk, and Mediterranean grooves.
This ambitious single isn’t just a standalone triumph—it’s part of a larger project. Mireia is currently dedicating her time to finishing Periscopi Invertit’s debut album, an endeavor that promises to push even more creative boundaries. As a Barcelona native, Mireia draws deeply from her Catalan heritage, intertwining it with her London experiences to craft music that’s both globally resonant and locally rooted.
The release of Stella Splendens also underscores the band’s ethos of cultural fusion and musical innovation. The song’s Mediterranean undertones reflect Mireia’s origins, while the jazz-funk structure connects to her diverse musical influences. The result is a track that not only honors its medieval origins but also redefines them within the context of today’s global music scene.
Mireia Carbonell’s musical journey has taken her to prestigious stages like Medicine Festival, Africa Oyé, and Wilderness Festival. Through these performances, she’s honed her craft and built the foundation for Periscopi Invertit. Collaborating with international talents such as Mim Suleiman and Ziad Hisham, Mireia ensures that her music remains vibrant, eclectic, and deeply personal.
With Stella Splendens, Periscopi Invertit invites listeners to reflect on the timelessness of music and its ability to evolve. The single is a bold statement that ancient melodies can find new life in the modern era, proving that great music transcends time and place.
Don’t miss this incredible blend of past and present. Listen to Stella Splendens now: Click here.
