Our first ever solo artist Chosen One! In a crazy, noisy world with “content” coming at us from all directions there’s something of great value in something as simple as a single instrument being played from the heart. “I wanted to discover what I could express on the instrument while making music that’s approachable,” says Bowden. “My aim would be to make music that anyone can enjoy, with no prior knowledge needed.” In that goal Bowden has more than succeeded making a record that is immediately listenable but offers plenty of depth and spaces you can get lost in. Shut off all other noises and indulge yourself in the purity of this solo solace.
Best known as a crucial member of pianist Fergus McCreadie’s internationally acclaimed, Mercury Prize-nominated trio, Glasgow-based David Bowden is a former Young Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year and an in-demand bass player on the Scottish jazz and folk scenes.Having successfully led the seven-piece world jazz ensemble Mezcla, Bowden found himself seeking a new creative challenge in the summer of 2023. He began developing repertoire for solo double bass – music that would place the instrument centre stage. Following a first solo gig at Glasgow Jazz Festival in 2024, the music on Unsung Songs was developed through a series of further solo performances at jazz festivals across Scotland and refined in studio sessions.The album draws on a rich spectrum of influences spanning jazz, folk and contemporary singer-songwriters. Alongside Bowden’s original compositions, it features reimagined songs by Nick Drake, Emilíana Torrini and mandolinist Chris Thile.
A key starting point for the project was a deep dive into vocal music. By transcribing and playing along with singers, Bowden absorbed the nuances of phrasing and articulation, aiming to translate the expressive flexibility of the human voice onto the double bass. Combined with inspiration from solo recordings by Jorge Roeder, Larry Grenadier and John Patitucci – as well as the intimacy and texture of guitar music – this approach shaped a melodic, chordal language that defines Unsung Songs.