I’m David Bowden, a bass player and composer based in Glasgow.

I play in the Fergus McCreadie Trio, Modern Vikings and over the years I’ve also led my own fusion group, Mezcla, and started a solo project exploring the expressive side of the double bass. Alongside that, I enjoy playing folk music and dipping into different genres whenever I can. My inspirations range from jazz bassists like Paul Chambers, Larry Grenadier, and Jorge Roeder to songwriters such as Lianne La Havas, Nick Drake, and Sam Cooke, as well as the brilliant musicians I get to play alongside on the Scottish scene.

I always love coming to Islay Jazz Festival. I’ve played here with Fergus’s trio, with Mezcla, and in a Mingus tribute, and each time has felt unique. One of my favourite memories was an impromptu chordless trio set with the amazing saxophonist Tim Garland back in 2022 – a reminder of the kind of unexpected moments that make festivals so special. I’m really looking forward to being back this year and seeing what new music and connections unfold.

website: www.davidbowdenmusic.com

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