Hess Is More

Hess Is More is the brainchild of Danish musician Mikkel Hess, evolving from a 2003 solo electronic venture into a sophisticated transatlantic ensemble based between Copenhagen and New York. The project's sound identity is defined by a unique intersection of nu-jazz, minimalist disco, and art-pop, characterized by the prominent use of vibraphone, live percussion, and deadpan vocal delivery.

Their career arc is marked by a shift from programmed electronic foundations to a 'live to tape' philosophy, particularly evident in their 2014 work which utilized a seven-piece ensemble to capture a more organic, theatrical energy. Culturally, they occupy a space similar to artists like Yello or Laid Back, blending European eccentricity with high-concept production. Critical consensus highlights their ability to remain catchy while maintaining an avant-garde edge, often praising the project's rhythmic ingenuity and dry wit. The ensemble's collaborative nature, featuring a rotating cast of high-caliber jazz and electronic musicians, ensures a sound that is technically proficient yet emotionally elusive.