Edinburgh-based artist Calum Ingram is not your average blues rock musician. Armed with a cello as his main instrument, he creates a sound that captures all the edge and rhythm of the blues rock style but delivered in a completely new way.
Influenced by a huge range of music from the work of artists such as Peter Gabriel, Jimi Hendrix and Jack White, Calum Ingram’s artistic story is formed by exceptional musicianship, a deep connection to his instrument and a mission of both personal expression and social causes. Having made his debut in 2016 with the EP Turn Around, he’s continued to make an imapct in the music scene with his original songwriting and soulful vocals.
Beyond his musical work, his compassion shines in his collaborations with organisations like Musicians in Exile, where he uses music for positive change. With his upcoming album titled The Man, set to drop next month, he brings us his latest release with the new single and title-track of the LP with “The Man,” another killer bluesy rock outing that draws on Calum’s ability to wield his electric cello as if it were a rock guitar.
Joined by a band consisting of Chatona Ridley on bass, Moss Taylor on keys and Jose Rojas on drums and percussion, the song came to life from a spontaneous improvised jam. From the opening notes, a playful groove is set and magnified by the shuffling strike of drums. Above this funky blues rock arrangement, Calum’s vocal lines lay down rhythmic melodies to form a catchy sound that instantly pulls you in and compels you to surrender to movement.
Peppered by exquisite instrumental flourishes from the gritty staccato cello notes, the bouncy synth stutters, popped bass guitar fills and jazz-inflected runs, Calum as a virtuoso musician and his talented band injects superb dashes of flair throughout. Propelled by the ever-present patter of percussion, furnished with lively moments of shaker and tapped bell shots, Calum delivers a stellar vocal performance to ensure “The Man” presents a catchy and engaging sound throughout.
In his trademark style, his cello solo lays down sensational showcase of his instrumental talent, followed by a moody breakdown before the song builds up with danceable vibes to create a memorable conclusion to the song. As Calum Ingram prepares to drop his forthcoming full-length record, “The Man” offers a thrilling taste of what’s to come and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the album has in store.
Commenting on the song’s context, Calum shares, “It’s about the idea of someone towering over you, showing you that they are the only ones worthy of power. It’s also about the stranglehold that men have had over women through the generations. I feel very passionately about women’s rights, so this is a reminder to people that are stuck in the past to wake the hell up!”
Listen to The Man below
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