Penguin Cafe Orchestra

Penguin Cafe Orchestra was a British avant-pop and chamber jazz ensemble founded by composer and multi-instrumentalist Simon Jeffes in the 1970s. Known for their eclectic sound that blended classical, folk, minimalist, and world music influences, the group created a whimsical and atmospheric style that was both sophisticated and accessible. Their 1976 debut album, *Music From The Penguin Cafe*, introduced their distinctive mix of acoustic instrumentation, unconventional structures, and a playful yet contemplative energy. Over the years, they released several acclaimed albums, including *Broadcasting From Home* (1984) and *Signs Of Life* (1987), which featured their beloved composition "Music for a Found Harmonium." Following Jeffes' passing in 1997, the original Penguin Cafe Orchestra disbanded, but their influence endured, and Jeffes' son, Arthur Jeffes, later formed the related project, Penguin Cafe, continuing the spirit of his father's musical vision.

Genres

Minimalism

Experimental

Folk

Classical

New Age

Easy Listening

Chamber Jazz

Avant-pop

Related Artists

The Cinematic Orchestra

Ólafur Arnalds

Philip Glass

Max Richter

Yann Tiersen

Brian Eno

Michael Nyman

Hauschka

Ludovico Einaudi

Kate Bush

Talking Heads

Peter Gabriel

Latest Release

Union Cafe

Penguin Cafe Orchestra

Album - 16 Tracks - Released December 1, 2017