Sing Seven Seas [VINYL]

Sing Seven Seas marks a major new chapter for British composer, arranger and trombonist Callum Au, internationally recognised for shaping the sound of global artists including Michael Buble, RAYE and Josh Groban, Au now puts his own voice front and centre with a large-scale recording of original music. Written for an expanded ensemble of over 80 musicians, Sing Seven Seas moves beyond the traditional big band, combining classic swing, contemporary jazz and orchestral colour. The project features a "who's who" of British musicians, with substantial trombone contributions from Au himself alongside standout soloists including Freddie Gavita, Duncan Hemstock, Chad LB, Mark Nightingale, Emma Rawicz and Nadim Teimoori. Reflecting a rich mix of generations and backgrounds, the ensemble includes Buddy Rich and Frank Sinatra alumni, classical principals from the film world, and up and coming British jazz superstars. The tracks on Sing Seven Seas are vivid and wide-ranging, from 'Swipe Right!' which captures the age of Instagram & TikTok and 'Murmurations', inspired by the shifting patterns of starling flocks over Blackpool. 'jazz.ai' offers a playful, modern take on 'The Sorcerer's Apprentice', with artificial intelligence causing havoc at a conservatoire. At the heart of the album is the four-part 'Influencers Suite', paying tribute to big band giants including Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Kenny Wheeler. Personal touches run throughout, from a melody by Au's young son in 'Through the Deep Dark Woods' to a closing dedication to his grandparents in 'Stardust'. Although conceived as a single expansive project, Sing Seven Seas unfolds across two distinct volumes. Volume 1 reflects Au's instinctive approach to composition, moving freely across styles, textures and ideas. By contrast, Volume 2 draws more directly on the big band tradition that first shaped his musical voice, with material that sits more firmly within that lineage and pays tribute to the figures who have influenced his writing. Together, the two volumes reveal both sides of Au's work - from bold experimentation to a deep-rooted love of the big band tradition.