Chris Rees

Born in South Wales, so inevitably exposed to music and rugby shortly after progressing to solid foods. Learnt 3-part harmonies singing hymns on long journeys to the seaside, before car radios were perpetrated. Picked up musical theory unenthusiastically during six ill-advised piano lessons in Tonypandy, from an octogenarian lady with a Bechstein mini grand and a goatee beard.

Started singing and playing in bands at school in Croydon in the late 60s. Early influences included ‘The Rolling Stones’, ‘Cream’, Hendrix, Dylan, ‘Fairport Convention’ and cider. Always played bass, with occasional inquisitive forays into acoustic guitar. Benefitted enormously from the paucity of decent local bands around in the early days and from playing with some rather good musicians.

Enjoyed a rewarding career in Science and the Law, but maintained a constant, though modest, presence in music. Joined Virgo on an Apprentice Scheme in 2012, finally graduating in 2015, after displaying the required degree of dysfunctionality.

Chris uses Fender Jazz basses and Fender Amps. Injudiciously.

Greatest fear

disapproval

Worst characteristic

insubordination

Best characteristic

large wine cellar

Favourite album

“Excitable Boy” – Warren Zevon

Non-musical interests

Rugby, Cricket, Wine, Whisky, Dining and Flippancy