Originally from the North Coast of Scotland, Ali Watson grew up in Glasgow before moving to London to study at the Guildhall School. While studying Watson began writing his first compositions and formed a trio with drummer Tom Potter and Tim Lallemant. In the summer of 2022 however he returned to his homelands, forming a new quartet of leading Glasgow Musicians; Alan Benzie, Matt Carmichael, and Greg Irons. Last year he performed sold-out shows at the Edinburgh and Glasgow Jazz Festival as well as more recently in Aberdeen and London.
In February of this year, the band recorded Watson's debut album, set to be released at the end of November. As well as leading his own band, Watson also performs regularly as a member of saxophonist and long-standing friend Matt Carmichael's Quintet.
Watson describes his music as 'complex yet melodic' with hopes to appeal to both Jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike, without compromising musical depth and integrity. As well as Jazz you may hear influences from the likes of Scottish Folk and Impressionist Classical elements. Some of Watson's favorite musicians include the likes of Aaron Parks, Kit Downes, and Larry Grenadier.
