Callum Allardice - Cinematic Light Orchestra

Callum Allardice melds sounds from film music, pop, rock and contemporary jazz on Cinematic Light Orchestra

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.

• Personell

  Bryn van Vliet - Alto Saxophone

  Dave Wilson - Alto Saxophone, Piccolo, Bass Clarinet

  Louisa Williamson - Tenor Saxophone, Flute

  Chris Buckland - Tenor Saxophone, Clarinet

  Andre Paris - Baritone Saxophone, Flute

  Cameron Robertson, Ben Hunt, Michael Costeloe, Peter James Guilford - Trumpets

  Matthew Allison, Kaito Walley, Julian Kirgan-Báez, Ben Robertson - Trombones

  Callum Allardice - Guitar

  Luke Sweeting - Piano

  Thomas Botting - Bass

  Hikurangi Schaverien-Kaa - Drums

  Jake Baxendale - Saxophone solo on Sacrament

  Daniel Hayles - Conductor

  Amy Brookman, Anna Van Der Zee , Monique Lapins, Sophie Bird, Rebecca Struthers - Violins

  Nicholas Hancox, Victoria Jaenecke, Grant Baker - Violas

  Sally Isaac, Zhenqi Li - Cellos

  Ewan Clark - Conductor (strings)