‘No Man’s Land’ brings together a selection of works composed by David Heyes since 2014, performed by Heyes (double bass), Joe Prindl (double bass), Gemma Ashcroft (double bass), Josie Jobbins (double bass), Alexander Heather (double bass), Sarah Poole (soprano) and Derek Harris (piano).

David’s interest in the First World War has led to the composition of a number of works which have been particularly successful, notably ‘No Man’s Land’ for double bass and piano, ‘Passchendaele Meditation’ for 2 double basses and piano, ‘The Last Poppy’ for double bass trio, ‘Beneath the Stars’ and ‘The Poppies Blow’, both for double bass and piano.

‘Invocation’ for double bass trio is prayer-like and mesmeric, contrasting the jazz idioms of ‘When I’m Gone’, composed in memory of the great Billie Holiday. ‘A Spotless Rose’ and ‘Far Away’ are performed with beautiful understatement and simplicity by Sarah Poole (soprano) and Derek Harris (piano) contrasting a more exotic and colourful ‘Sahara’ for unaccompanied double bass. ‘Ilmarinen’ (Spirit of Air-Maker of Heaven) explores a wide palette of muted colours and ‘The Great Wall of China’ for double bass quartet is a work of rhythmic energy and good humour employing many playing techniques to bring a unique CD to a happy and successful conclusion.

David only began to compose seriously in his early fifties, has had music performed in 13 countries to date, and was Featured Composer at Galicia Graves International Double Bass Competition (Spain) in 2017. David began to play the double bass at the age of 14 and has given recitals and masterclasses around the world for many years. His unique and extensive knowledge of the solo double bass and its possibilities enable him to write works which fit the instrument like a glove.