“…a drummer of supreme musicality.” – John Shand – Sydney Morning Herald
Toronto based drummer and composer Chris Wallace formed his new quartet “Many Names” in mid 2015. Reintroducing himself to his native Canadian music scene in late 2013 after living in Edinburgh, Scotland for 12 years. This new quartet is made up of some of Canada’s finest jazz musicians: Jeff King on tenor sax, Adrean Farrugia on piano and Dan Fortin on bass.
While in Edinburgh, Wallace was a central figure in the Scottish jazz scene. Appearing in many situations as sideman including playing with international stars: guitarist Ulf Wakenius (SWE), trumpeter Anderz Bergkrantz (SWE), saxophonist Julian Arguelles (UK), guitarist Jim Mullen (UK), altoist Silke Eberhard (GER), Pianist Louis Durra (USA), tenor saxophonist Jamie Oehlers (AUS) and vocalists Barbara Morrison (USA), Lillian Boutee (USA), Lady Rizo (USA), Ali McGregor (AUS) and many others.
On top of his many sideman obligations Wallace also made time to release his own quartet album “Looking Glass” in 2010 and a quintet album “Identity” in 2013.
“…this album is a triumph of mood and musical intelligence.”
“…complex, accomplished writing…” – Mark Gilbert – Jazz Journal
He also formed the progressive jazz trio “NeWt”, recipients of the 2012 Scottish Jazz Ensemble of the year award. This group toured the UK extensively, were featured in concert for BBC Radio 3, supported Bill Frisell at the London Jazz Festival and appeared as part of the “Made in the UK” showcase series which brought the group to the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival and the TD Toronto and Vancouver Jazz Festivals in 2012.
Wallace was twice selected to take part in “Air Time”, a professional development residency produced by Serious Music Ltd (London). The week long industry conference (2010) was designed to give 5 elite Scottish musicians direct contact with media, promoters, etc in order to develop the tools to create a successful career. The third edition of the residency (2012) focused exclusively on composing new works in a cross genre format, specifically writing for a small chamber group, integrated with a jazz rhythm section. The group was mentored during the week by legendary UK jazz musician and composer John Surman, and BBC Symphony conductor Howard Moody.
Jeff King – saxophone,
Adrean Farrugia – piano,
Dan Fortin – bass,
Chris Wallace – drums.
Here is the Quartet with “Alone Together”
