Sunda Arc

Sunda Arc is the electronic project of brothers Nick and Jordan Smart, best known as two-thirds of the acclaimed UK jazz trio Mammal Hands. Based in Norwich and signed to Gondwana Records, the duo represents a pivotal branch of the 'Gondwana sound,' which blends spiritual jazz with modern classical and electronic influences.

Their sound identity is defined by the integration of live woodwinds (saxophone and bass clarinet) with analog synths and custom-made software patches. Unlike traditional jazz-fusion, Sunda Arc leans heavily into the aesthetics of techno and IDM, utilizing polyrhythms and looping structures that evoke the minimalist works of Steve Reich as much as the dancefloor sensibilities of Jon Hopkins or Floating Points. Their career arc shows a steady evolution from the more ambient-leaning 'Flicker' toward the darker, more rhythmic textures of 'Night Lands.' Critically, they are praised for their ability to maintain the 'breath' of acoustic performance within highly processed electronic environments. They occupy a unique cultural space between the UK's thriving contemporary jazz scene and the experimental electronic community, appealing to listeners who value technical proficiency alongside atmospheric depth.