The Quintet Are:
Chris Stout (Fiddle, Viola)
Fraser Fifield (Sax)
Catriona Mckay (Piano, Harp)
Malcolm Stitt (Guitar)
Neil Harland (Double Bass)
Since the release of his debut solo album 'First O' the Darkenin' in 2004, Chris has led his quintet to critical acclaim accross the globe, developing a sound which defies catagorisation, demonstrating the discipline of a classical ensemble and a jazz group's sense of adventure, while celebrating all the spirit and flair of traditional music.
A culmination of Folk, Jazz, Classical and World influence, their music has been described as "‘Kaleidoscopically exciting and technically audacious...panoply of dynamic musical adventures." (Scotsman 2007). The quintet's latest offering, Devil's Advocate, intentionally reflects - and provides a natural link between - Chris's love of both traditional and contemporary music. The joyously skirling opening track and the closing, deeply emotive Dynrost are rearranged movements from Chris's successful commission for the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra performed at Celtic Connections 2007.
"There are some who can play like nobody's business and set the heather on fire in the process, and there are those who are possessed to the extent that they achieve standards that are out there beyond the reach of almost anyone else. Stout sets a new benchmark." (Maverick Magazine)