Well Mixed Blue: Tom Lyne’s Artistic Breakthrough with a Captivating Double Bass Duo

Acclaimed bassist, composer, producer, and sound designer Tom Lyne marks a significant artistic milestone with his latest album, Well Mixed Blue. This release showcases Lyne stepping beyond his familiar rhythm section role to take center stage, unveiling a distinct and compelling musical voice. The album also celebrates his enduring creative partnership with pianist Dave Milligan, resulting in a deeply intimate and expressive musical journey.

Tom Lyne’s Renewed Focus on Double Bass and Duo Composition

During the pandemic, Tom Lyne dedicated himself to an intensive practice regime on the double bass, reconnecting with the instrument on a deeper level. He composed specifically for the pared-back duo format with Milligan, drawing inspiration from legendary partnerships such as Sheila Jordan and Harvey S, as well as his long collaboration with Sophie Bancroft.

This renewed focus manifests in Well Mixed Blue as a collection of subtle, exploratory compositions rooted in sonic narrative and emotional depth.

A Diverse Musical Palette: From Meditation to Playful Fusion

Well Mixed Blue presents a broad range of musical vignettes that showcase Lyne’s versatility and expressive range:

• The meditative track “Sea More”, inspired by the ocean’s tranquility.

• A playful interpretation of David Sanborn’s ‘80s fusion classic “Run For Cover”.

• The quietly poetic “Holding On”.

• The title track “Well Mixed Blue” offers a subtle homage to the iconic 1962 Money Jungle session featuring Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, and Max Roach.

This varied sonic landscape appeals to fans of jazz, fusion, and contemporary instrumental music.

Tom Lyne’s Musical Journey and Artistic Evolution

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Tom Lyne’s musical journey has taken him across Canada and internationally. He earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz from McGill University in 1991, launching a career that spans busking in Europe with The Overexcite Band, forming the band Men Without Heads in Amsterdam, and touring extensively.

His 2016 solo album, Far From Mars, highlighted his talents as a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer, blending improvisation with electronic music for a vibrant, retro-inspired sound infused with modern production techniques.

In addition to performance, Lyne is a passionate sound designer and composer for film, video, and experimental audio. He earned an MSc in Sound Design from Napier University in 2020, further enhancing his sonic expertise.

Tracklisting: Well Mixed Blue

Disc 1 – Side 1

1. Sea More

2. Three Sides Now

3. Use Me

4. The Bent Peg

5. Well Mixed Blue

6. Glitch In The Key Of Life

7. Slow To Home

8. One Small Thing

9. Holding On

10. Catriona's

11. Run For Cover

12. Dinner In Berlin

Why Well Mixed Blue Is a Must-Listen

• Showcases Tom Lyne’s distinctive double bass voice and duo collaboration.

• A rich mix of meditative, playful, and poetic jazz compositions.

• Reflects a mature blend of jazz tradition and modern sonic exploration.

• Features an intimate partnership with pianist Dave Milligan.

• Appeals to jazz lovers and fans of contemporary instrumental and fusion music.