About Doug Walker
Versatile bassist Doug Walker pours his love of music into every performance. He has been on the San Diego scene since 2001, backing up many of the city’s renowned artists across the spectrum of musical genres. His particular passion for modern jazz has afforded him performances with many local legends, and has inspired an abundance of original compositions and arrangements. Whether he’s accompanying the various styles of jazz, earthy blues, funky soul, breakneck bluegrass or folky roots-rock, Walker’s classically trained, jazz-minded approach merges with his stylistic faithfulness—a rare combination that has earned him praise among these intersecting circles of musicians.
Walker aims to play an integral role in every project that comes his way, whether as a leader or as a supporting artist. On stage, he plays in the moment, ready to roll with any spontaneous change of direction. In the studio, he delivers thoughtfully supportive bass lines worthy of their permanence. Numerous live and recorded performances have encountered receptive audiences and favorable press.
Doug Walker was born and raised in northern California, in the foothills just east of Sacramento. His interest in music began as far back as he can remember. He first studied saxophone before discovering electric bass at age fourteen. Inspired by the bass-dominated bands of Les Claypool and Flea, he became serious about the craft that would soon lead to such predecessors as Larry Graham, Bootsy Collins, Paul Jackson, Rocco Prestia, and Jaco Pastorius. Walker’s interest in jazz and the upright bass flourished while studying with Dr. Joe Gilman at American River College, where he sought after the sound of a deeper line of heroes, including Ron Carter, Ray Brown, Paul Chambers, Scott LaFaro, and far more. Walker later transferred to San Diego State University on a full scholarship. There he performed in orchestra, jazz big band and small combos while studying privately with celebrated bassist Bob Magnusson, ultimately earning a Master of Music degree in jazz studies. Walker continues to teach, compose and perform throughout San Diego, where he is often recognized as one of the few left-handed upright bassists on the planet.
Doug Walker Socials
https://walkerofbass.com/
https://www.instagram.com/walkerofbass
https://www.youtube.com/@walkerofbass
About Ian Harland
Born in Carlsbad, CA, Ian Harland is a true native San Diegan. He began playing piano at age seven, taking lessons from his neighbor across the street. However, he quit a year later because he couldn't understand how two people could possibly play together and stay on time. He didn't understand rhythm! Ironically enough, at age eleven, Harland decided to start playing drums. He formed a band with his brother and neighbor called Beyond Recognition. They played rock 'n' roll and wrote their own music. However, the band disolved as his brother and friend developed other interests while Harland remained intently focused on music. Throughout high school, Harland would continue to expand his musical taste and professionalism.
When Harland was fifteen, he began playing African drums with the San Diego group Ho Asogli. They performed throughout the county at venues such as The Neurosciences Institute (now TSRI) and World Beat Center at Balboa Park. Also at age fifteen, the young artist took up lessons with ragtime xylophonist Morris Palter. This was Harland's first exposure to mallet percussion. After high school, he attended San Diego State University (SDSU) where he earned both his Bachelor's and Master's of Music in Jazz Studies. During his studies at SDSU, he became increasingly interested in harmony and composition. This led Harland's studies towards mallets rather than drum set. When his teacher, Anthony Smith, moved to New York, Harland bought Smith's vibraphone and set out to become fluent as an improvisor and composer on the instrument.
Now, Harland performs and records professionally throughout the greater San Diego area. You're likely to find him rocking out on drums in Oceanside or swinging on the vibes downtown. He is also an exceptional teacher for all ages and skill levels - not only on drums and vibes, but on guitar, bass, and piano as well!
Ian Harland Social
https://www.instagram.com/iharland/
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