corto.alto

Liam Shortall, the driving force behind corto.alto, hails from Glasgow, Scotland. With a background rich in musical education and performance, Shortall's passion for jazz and multi-instrumental prowess laid the foundation for the creation of corto.alto. The project emerged as a platform to explore and blend various musical influences, resulting in a fresh and innovative sound that resonates with a diverse audience.

The name 'corto.alto' is a playful nod to Shortall's surname, translating to 'short.tall' in Spanish. This clever wordplay reflects the project's creative and unconventional approach to music. From its inception, corto.alto aimed to push the boundaries of jazz, incorporating elements from different genres to craft a unique auditory experience.

In 2024, corto.alto released their debut album, 'Bad With Names,' which quickly garnered attention in the jazz community and beyond. The album's innovative compositions and energetic performances showcased the band's ability to blend traditional jazz with contemporary influences seamlessly.

The critical acclaim for 'Bad With Names' culminated in its shortlisting for the Mercury Prize 'Album Of The Year' in 2024. This recognition not only highlighted the album's artistic merit but also signified corto.alto's rising prominence in the UK music scene. The success of 'Bad With Names' opened doors for the band, leading to increased media coverage and a growing fan base eager to experience their live performances.

corto.alto's reputation for electrifying live performances has been a significant factor in their rapid ascent. The band's dynamic stage presence and improvisational prowess have captivated audiences at various venues and festivals across the UK.

Notably, corto.alto has graced the stages of renowned festivals such as Glastonbury and the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival. Their performances at these events have been praised for their energy and innovation, further solidifying their status as a must-see act in the contemporary jazz scene. The band's ability to connect with audiences through their music has been instrumental in building a loyal and expanding fan base.

Throughout their career, corto.alto has engaged in various collaborations that have enriched their musical repertoire. Working with artists from different genres has allowed the band to experiment with new sounds and styles, contributing to their distinctive fusion of jazz and contemporary music.

The band's influences are diverse, drawing inspiration from traditional jazz legends as well as modern electronic and hip-hop artists. This eclectic mix of influences is evident in their compositions, which often feature complex rhythms, innovative harmonies, and a blend of acoustic and electronic elements. These collaborations and influences have been pivotal in shaping corto.alto's unique sound and artistic identity.

corto.alto's innovative approach to jazz has not gone unnoticed. The band has received several accolades, including the Scottish Jazz Awards for Best Band in 2020 and 2023, and Best Album in 2020 for 'Live From 435 Vols 1, 2 & 3.' In 2021, they were honored with the Scottish Awards for New Music Innovation in Jazz Award.

The shortlisting of 'Bad With Names' for the Mercury Prize 'Album Of The Year' in 2024 marked a significant milestone in the band's career. This recognition placed corto.alto among the leading contemporary jazz acts in the UK and underscored their contribution to the evolution of the genre. The band's commitment to innovation and excellence continues to earn them critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

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