Callum Allardice - Cinematic Light Orchestra (2024)

Guitarist-composer Callum Allardice’s debut, Cinematic Light Orchestra, features big band with string orchestra complemented by his soaring guitar work, bringing to life his expansive and immersive compositions. The music distills influences from indie rock, orchestral music, spaghetti western and contemporary jazz to shape Allardice’s bold vision; a musical statement reflecting dark love, musical friendship, poetry and the vibe.

Callum Allardice is an award-winning composer and guitarist based in Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand. The ensemble features exceptional talents such as double bassist Thomas Botting, pianist Luke Sweeting, and skilled drummer Hikurangi Schaverien-Kaa. Their combined expertise and diverse musical backgrounds contribute to the album's rich and dynamic sound.

Cinematic Light Orchestra's journey began in 2016, evolving from the Arthur Street Loft Orchestra (ASLO).. Initially conceived as a traditional big band, the ensemble gradually incorporated cinematic elements and orchestral qualities into their music. In 2022, Callum Allardice was granted a composer residency at Te Kōkī - New Zealand School of Music, which provided the opportunity to compose and record this album.

Reflecting on the project, Allardice shares, "One thing I love about this band and larger ensembles is the juxtaposition of heavily arranged sections with improvisation. I love having the ability to frame a delicate solo piano improvisation against a small orchestra. It's important to me to enable the players' freedom and creativity within the ensemble. That's where the magic happens."

Cinematic Light Orchestra was recorded in two distinct sessions, with the first focusing on the rhythm section and brass, followed by the addition of a 10-piece string section. The resulting compositions skillfully blend improvisation with intricate arrangements, offering listeners a captivating musical journey.

This album is a testament to the collaborative efforts of a number of individuals, including producers Dave Wilson and Thomas Voyce, whose meticulous planning and dedication were instrumental in bringing this ambitious project to fruition.

Callum is an award-winning composer and guitarist based in New Zealand. He is a three-time recipient of the APRA Best Jazz Composition award for his works ‘Sons of Thunder’ (2016), ‘Deep Thought’ (2017), and ‘Chungin’ (2019). In 2020 he and his group The Jac, received the Recorded Music NZ Best Jazz Artist award for their album ‘A Gathering’, and in 2022 he was the inaugural Te Kōkī - New Zealand School of Music jazz composer-in-residence.



Tracklist:
1.01 - Callum Allardice - Dark Love (5:58)
1.02 - Callum Allardice - Phobos & Deimos (10:04)
1.03 - Callum Allardice - The Vibe (11:01)
1.04 - Callum Allardice - Patience (3:01)
1.05 - Callum Allardice - Hotere (7:56)
1.06 - Callum Allardice - Unknown Peril (5:18)
1.07 - Callum Allardice - Sacrament (9:53)