CHRIS ALLARD
“A hip approach to modern jazz”
Time Out
An impressive guitarist Chris Allard is known both as a consummate sideman, working with high profile talents including Jacqui Dankworth, Gwyneth Herbert and Dave O’Higgins and an acclaimed bandleader, releasing four albums under his own name including his latest, “Invisible Landscape”. A graduate of the Guildhall School of Music & Drama (where he now teaches), Chris’s playing is characterised by a graceful fluidity and ease, balancing space and melody in a refreshing and pleasing style. In addition to his own compositions, tonight’s set list will also include choice arrangements of songs from contemporary jazz artists to Brazilian favourites, demonstrating Chris’ impressive versatility; his other recent projects include work with Palestinian singer Omar Kamal, touring with the 30+ million-selling Il Divo (also featuring Michael Ball) and playing with Olivier award-winning actress/singer Sheridan Smith OBE at the Royal Albert Hall. Further highlights of Chris’ sparkling CV are live TV appearances with Jacqui Dankworth and playing with Madeline Bell and the BBC Big Band at the BBC Proms in Hyde Park London to over 42000 people. Unsurprisingly the musicians sharing the 606 stage with Chris this evening are also top UK players, Brandon Allen-saxophone, Ross Stanley-piano, Dave Whitford-bass and Nick Smalley-drums.
“A hip approach to modern jazz” Time Out; “Chris Allard was impeccable” London Jazz News; “Great playing…beautiful…a real guitar player” Pat Martino