Calum McKenzie
Calum McKenzie
@calum-mckenzie
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  Joined March 07, 2026
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Calum McKenzie is a Dundee based composer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist whose career spans jazz, rock and Celtic folk. A master of the bass, double bass ,rhythm guitar and vocals, McKenzie is renowned for his fluid ability to anchor a track while driving its melodic direction. He has a natural ability to control vocal dynamics and phrasing, navigating complex jazz harmonies and transitions with ease.

A cornerstone of his career is his 27 year tenure with Havana Swing, Dundee’s premier gypsy jazz outfit. Joining in 1987, his double bass work and vocals propelled the band to major stages like Glastonbury. More than a bass player, McKenzie was a key creative force for the band. His original compositions such as “Hotel Du Palais”,“the Fifth Man” and “Uncle Frank” are staples of their acclaimed album “Django’s Lion” and showcase his deep understanding of gypsy jazz arrangements.

He has laid down swinging basslines for world renowned guitarist Martin Taylor, top jazz vocalist Alison Burns, and the legendary jazz trumpeter JimmyDeuchar.

Beyond Havana Swing, his strong groove has benefitted virtuoso Gypsy Jazz Masters like Lulo Reinhardt and Angelo De Barre.

Calum has an invaluable arsenal of talent that keeps him continuously in demand both in the studio and on the stage.

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Little Girl (Hyde/Henry) - Havana Swing


Category: Music
Duration: 00:03:35
Description:
Visit Havana Swing at http://www.facebook.com/HavanaSwing
Full album available from iTunes at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/djangos-discovery/id525868044 or DVD of whole concert from http://www.havanaswing.com. (Taken from Havana Swing's sellout concert in Scotland, Nov 2011)

CD and DVD "Django's Discovery" also available from every other major online music retailer.

Havana Swing are:

Walt Smith (clarinet)
John Whyte (lead guitar)
Ashley Malcolm (lead guitar)
Alain LeGrande (rhythm guitar / vocals)
Calum McKenzie (double bass)

Filming and DVD production by TV Energy Productions

Live sound - Charlie Martin

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