In the modern world, where music stands as an integral part of our culture and life, each new album unveils new artists and new sounds. In this context, the upcoming album “Cinematic Light Orchestra” by Callum Allardice is poised to be one of the most anticipated and significant releases of this spring.
“Cinematic Light Orchestra” has emerged from the collaboration of outstanding musicians, including producers Dave Wilson and Thomas Voyce, who have infused their relentless enthusiasm into the project. Pooling all their passion, the musicians are gearing up to unleash a stunning album, which stands as one of the brightest exemplars, the benchmarks of contemporary jazz.
photo by @nickgeorge.creative
Callum Allardice has already secured a solid place in the world of jazz music and continues to carve his path. The musician boasts prestigious accolades such as the APRABest Jazz Composition awards for his works “SonsofThunder” (2016), “DeepThought” (2017), and “Chungin” (2019). In 2020, he and his group, TheJac, received the RecordedMusic NZ Best JazzArtist award for their album “AGathering.” Collaborating with other talented musicians, Callum Allardice underscores the essence of collectivity, uniting souls in jazz music and improvisation. He acts as a conductor, weaving the threads of jazz music around him, connecting the most gifted. In 2022, he became the first resident of Te Kōkī – New Zealand School of Music, affording him the opportunity to create and record the album “Cinematic Light Orchestra,” which I had the privilege to listen to exclusively before its release. The album will be available on all digital platforms very soon, on March 8th.
From the outset, “Cinematic Light Orchestra,” released under the Australian jazz label Earshift Music, captivates with its stylish, vivid, textured, and cinematic atmosphere. Founded on the fusion of a large jazz orchestra with a string ensemble and guitars, the album presents us with the richness of the jazz genre, reflecting a multitude of influences and styles. “Cinematic Light Orchestra” incorporates indie rock influences with groovy guitars, orchestral classical music featuring impeccable string arrangements, and elements reminiscent of cinematic spaghetti westerns.
photo by @callum.allardice
From the very first track, “Dark Love,” you’ll hear and see a melodrama unfold through dreamy trumpets, light keys, and, you know, I was struck by the ease and cinematic quality of the sound. This rich melody evokes a sense of melancholy while preserving the grandeur of solemn harmonies, evoking a feeling of touching greatness in the soul. As Callum Allardice himself admits, “Dedicated to my beloved partner Jordan, it draws inspiration from Pablo Neruda’s sonnet ‘XVII (I do not love you…).‘”
Then the light abruptly dims, goosebumps race across the skin from the sharp change in mood and sound, and the track “Phobos & Deimos” bursts forth with epic tension, showcasing the mastery of bassist Thomas Botting, whose deep sound resonates within the textured waves of brass and strings. Meanwhile, in the track “The Vibe,” virtuoso pianist Luke Sweeting takes center stage, showcasing mastery of melody and harmony on the piano.
I like that every instrument is realized in the album, each having its own voice, style, and incredible character. That’s why the album “Cinematic Light Orchestra” sounds so warm, virtuosic, and friendly. As proof of Callum Allardice’s endlessly beautiful soul, his track “Hotere” shines with light and joy, ease, and cinematic spring sounds, dedicated by Callum to his entire team of musicians. The album concludes with molten and explosive energy in “Sacrament”. Every beat seems to breathe electrifying sound, ready to dispel all barriers and fully surrender to the music. This is a remarkable finale to the album, demonstrating all the passion and strength of the release, a stunning reflection of what has been recorded and crafted.
The upcoming album “Cinematic Light Orchestra” is a mini-novel in modern jazz, showcasing Callum Allardice’s unique vision of music. Through each track, a subtle thread of concept and style is woven, as Callum Allardice and the orchestra explore themes of love and inspiration, grandeur and friendship, respect and devotion, along with the incredible power of improvisation, understanding, and… jazz, lots of jazz. “Cinematic Light Orchestra” is an astonishing album that presents the world with impeccable style, and every lover of contemporary jazz music should have this record in their collection.
Indie Boulevard Magazine 