Our Musical Journey

Fillet-o-Soul blends jazz and soul to create an unparalleled musical experience, led by the talented Chris Storr and Fayyaz Virji, with roots in diverse musical expressions.

Our Origins

Meet the Artists

Formed in 2007, Fillet-o-Soul brings together seasoned musicians from various genres, showcasing their passion for music through captivating performances and unique arrangements.

Bryan Chambers

is a name synonymous with house music. His silky smooth tones have been lighting up dancefloors worldwide for over a two decades. It all began for Bryan with a chance meeting with EMI in the early 90’s and was put in touch with their new Artist Reel 2 Real as they were launching in the UK. The electronic and reggae influenced band headed by superstar Erick Morillo.Bryan went on to sing all the backing vocals for this hugely successful dance act. This was the platform Bryan needed to launch his solo career.

Since the major success of “All I do” a Stevie Wonder Cover Bryan has gone from strength to strength being one the most in demand backing and Lead vocalists in the country working with icons such as Grace Jones, Chaka Khan,Prince, Beverley Knight, Jools Holland and Squeeze. And just when you think it couldn’t get any bigger or better Bryan was invited to join the legendary David Gilmour aka Pink Floyd a two-year world tour to performing both lead and backing vocals.

Bryan can be seen in no less then 3 iconic DVDs: “David Gilmour - Live in Pompeii - Rattle That Lock tour” which went to number 1 on the worldwide music DVD chart. “Bros Reunion – Live at the O2” as well as their hugely successful documentary “After the screaming stops” which went on to win a both a National Film Award in the UK and also a BAFTA for best documentary. And finally “Soft Cell Reunion 2018 - Live at the 02” as well as their documentary “Say Hello Wave Goodby.

Tommy Blaize

is the most popular singer on British television. No one else entertains the 12 million people that Tommy entertains, week in, week out. He’s a man alone in a band apart, front and centre with the UK’s most-loved musical troupe. And he’s been there for 20 years. Simple as that.

As lead singer of the BBC Strictly Come Dancing band, Tommy's powerful yet sensitive performances have helped create some of the most memorable TV moments of recent times. Singing live to a live audience every week, Tommy is the man with the golden pipes whose unique, soulful sound is etched in the public consciousness.

Tommy began his singing career at the tender age of nine with ‘The Blaize Brothers’ alongside siblings Tony and Darrin, where he first learnt to sing in front of a live audience, playing in clubs across the North-West of England for 6 years in the 1970s.

In a career spanning a remarkable 50 years, Tommy has gone on to work with some of the world’s most legendary and renowned artists, from Diana Ross to Queen; The Beach Boys to Amy Winehouse; Joe Cocker to Stevie Wonder. The list is as long as it is impressive.

With talent like his, and exposure like that, an artist album was an obvious next step. Universal offered Tommy the chance to make his debut solo record. He already had a band, a core of musicians who play with him both on Strictly and at his own regular jazz club shows around the country. And he already had a musical sweet spot: the soul and R&B classics that Tommy heard at his parents’ knees and which had him performing live from the age of nine.

Louise Clare Marshall

Louise Clare Marshall is a powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and performer whose career spans almost three decades across stage, studio, and screen. Refusing to be defined by one path, she has built a vibrant and eclectic career, moving effortlessly from the West End to international tours, recording sessions, and fronting her own bands, The Brethren and Seriously Mendes.

Since 2006, Louise has been a key member of Jools Holland’s Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, featuring annually on the iconic Hootenanny broadcasts and performing alongside artists such as David Gilmour, Chaka Khan, Beverley Knight, Dionne Warwick, Marc Almond, and Paul Weller. Jools Holland describes her as “one of the greatest singers in the world.”

Her career began in London’s West End, appearing in acclaimed productions including Jesus Christ Superstar, Whistle Down the Wind, and Soul Train. A sought-after session vocalist, her recording credits include work with Pink Floyd, Noel Gallagher, Soft Cell, and The Brand New Heavies, as well as chart-topping collaborations such as LF System’s Afraid to Feel. Her voice also features on major film soundtracks including Love Actually, Mamma Mia, Troy, and The Little Mermaid.

Known for her spontaneous, soulful performances and infectious energy, Louise brings a sense of joy and freedom to every stage. Alongside her live and studio work, she continues to write and record her own music, drawing on a lifetime of experience and collaboration to create songs full of honesty, warmth, and groove.

Louise Warren

Her singing career includes working with, recording and singing backing vocals for a range of artists such as, Ringo Starr, Kenney Jones and the Jones gang, Mike Rutherford (Genesis/Mike & The Mechanics), Mica Paris, Littlemix, Omar, Madeline Bell, Gary Brooker (Procal Harem), Roland Gift, Beverley Knight, Bev Bevan (The Move/ELO), Kenny Thomas, Olly Murs, Matt Goss and Peter Andre.

As a freelance vocalist, Louise has worked with various bands, shows, big band outfits, and musicians, such as Dave Arch’s Strictly Come Dancing Band.

Session work includes various recordings for the Metrophonic record label with Brian Rawlings and Cliff Masterson, including the Disney track ‘Destiny’. A collaboration with 5AM on "I thought It Was You", which got to the to number 1 in the uk soul charts. Louise collaborated on the recent album ‘The Hypnos files’ with Chris Bowden and Neil Bullock on Rehab records.

Louise is also a voiceover artist and has voiced for live animation, including companies such as Disney, sky, BBC, along with many adverts, TV and character shows. Louise is proud to work with nordlingstalent.com.

Trevor Barry

Trevor Barry is one of the UK’s most accomplished and in-demand bass players, known for his versatility, musicality, and effortless groove across genres from pop and soul to jazz and orchestral music. A seasoned live and session musician, Trevor has performed on countless major stages and television broadcasts, including his long-standing role as a core member of the house band for Strictly Come Dancing.

Over his distinguished career, Trevor has worked with an extraordinary range of artists, from pop icons and jazz legends to film stars turned performers. His reputation for creativity, precision, and warmth has made him a first-call bassist for live tours, studio recordings, and broadcast productions around the world.

Artists Trevor has worked with include:
The Dave Clark Five, Carole King, Geoff Wayne, Russell Watson, Marc Almond, Natalie Imbruglia, Sarah Brightman, Mel C, Beverley Knight, Rita Ora, Jess Glynne, All Saints, David Essex, Jim Carrey, Robin Williams, George Benson, Patti Austin, Everything But The Girl, Elaine Paige, The Hollies, and Tom Odell.

Neil Bullock

Neil Bullock is a powerhouse drummer whose energy, versatility, and musical precision have made him one of the most respected and in-demand musicians on the UK and international scenes. Equally at home in jazz, pop, rock, or orchestral settings, Neil’s dynamic career spans world tours, West End shows, studio sessions, and high-profile television performances.

Renowned for his driving groove, technical flair, and expressive musicality, Neil brings passion and personality to every stage he steps onto. His adaptability and professionalism have seen him perform with some of the industry’s most celebrated artists and ensembles, earning him a reputation as a true first-call player.

Beyond performing, Neil is a dedicated educator and mentor, delivering workshops, clinics, and masterclasses that inspire musicians of all ages. His teaching is infused with the same creativity, discipline, and infectious enthusiasm that define his playing.

Artists Neil has worked with include:
Jools Holland, Beverley Knight, Paul Weller, Marc Almond, Ruby Turner, Clare Teal, The BBC Big Band, The BBC Concert Orchestra, The National Youth Jazz Orchestra, and The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars.

Mike Gorman

is a UK based musician/composer.

Mike performed in the BBC Double big band prom in 2017, was recently in the Houseband for ITV’s The Imitation Game and has arranged music for Bogata Symphony Orchestra and Metropole Orchestra. As a jazz pianist/organist he has worked/toured with many leading international artists including Marlena Shaw, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Manu Katche, Jimmy Witherspoon, Georgie Fame, China Moses, Scott Hamilton, Bill Watrous, Clare Teal, Stacey Kent & Charles McPherson.

He has also worked with many of the UK’s leading luminaries in the field including Don Weller, Guy Barker, Anita Wardell, Dave Cliff, Alan Skidmore, Bobby Wellins, Art Themen, Danny Moss and is a regular member of The Peter King Quartet & The Jim Mullen Organ Trio.

In the popular & commercial music field, Mike has worked and/or toured with many renowned artists including Manfred Mann, Boy George and Culture Club, Kid Creole and the Coconuts, Incognito, Us3, Trevor Horn, Lol Creme, Van Morrison, Mica Paris, Gwen McCrea, Rumer, Marty Pellow, Andrea Bocelli, Tom Robinson, Omar, Madeleine Bell, Rebecca Ferguson.

He leads his own trio which can be seen at well known UK venues such as Ronnie Scotts Club and The 606 Club and runs his own Big Band for which he writes and/or arranges all the material

Dave Ital

is an accomplished guitarist, musical director, and producer whose career spans international touring, recording, and musical education. A graduate of Goldsmiths College, University of London, with a Certificate in Jazz and Popular Musicianship, he also holds an HNC in Studio Engineering, giving him a deep technical and creative understanding of both performance and production.

As Musical Director for Bananarama’s first world tour, Dave brought his exceptional musicianship and leadership to global stages, earning recognition for his dynamic arrangements and live performance expertise.

Throughout his career, Dave has recorded or performed live with an extraordinary range of world-class artists across genres including pop, soul, funk, and jazz. His credits include:

Deniece Williams, Nile Rodgers, Maceo Parker, Jimmy Cliff, Sly & Robbie, James Morrison, Anastacia, Chaka Khan, Robin Gibb, Craig David, Stanley Clarke, Steve Arrington, Level 42, Joss Stone, Sugababes, Lewis Taylor, Ali Campbell, Ernest Ranglin, Suggs, Beyoncé, Liberty X, Tom Jones, Brian May, M People, Bryan Ferry, Adam F, Jamelia, Rick Astley, Michał Urbaniak, Jason Rebello, Rahsaan Patterson, LL Cool J, Redman, Anita Baker, Sharon Corr, Bonnie Tyler, Jocelyn Brown, Mel C, Mica Paris, Beverley Knight, Nerina Pallot, Gary Barlow, Dina Carroll, Martha High, Urban Species, Tom Robinson, Candi Staton, Hamish Stuart, Lulu, Bobby Womack, Des’ree, Alvin Stardust, Kele Le Roc, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Desmond Dekker, Incognito, Light of the World, Mirage, Peter White, Dave Koz & Steve Cole, Norman Connors, Michael Henderson, Carleen Anderson, Andy Abraham, GC Cameron, Freda Payne, The Flirtations, Junior Giscombe, Jackie Graham, and Taio Cruz.

In addition to his performance work, Dave has also served as a session guitarist at Point Blank Music School in Islington, London, mentoring emerging musicians and producers.

Lisa Grahame

is a virtuoso alto saxophonist whose versatility and infectious energy have made her a standout figure on the UK jazz and popular music scene. She has played Lead Alto in Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra for over twelve years, delighting audiences with her soulful solos and impeccable ensemble work.

Lisa’s musical journey began in her youth with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO), where she honed her skills as a lead alto. Since then, she has performed across a wide range of professional settings: West End theatre productions including Annie, Fame, and Soul Train; studio sessions for numerous artists; cruise ships and sun-soaked resorts; the BBC Big Band; and countless venues around London. Regular appearances at iconic clubs such as Ronnie Scott’s and The 606 Club showcase her command of both jazz improvisation and contemporary ensemble playing.

As part of Jools Holland’s Radio 2 Show team, Lisa relishes the opportunity to play alongside some of the world’s finest artists, absorbing their influences while delivering performances that are precise, expressive, and exhilarating.

Artists Lisa has worked with include:

Jools Holland, Beverley Knight, Paul Weller, Marc Almond, Ruby Turner, Clare Teal, Level 42, M People, Tom Jones, Sugababes, Lewis Taylor, Natalie Imbruglia, Anastacia, Chaka Khan, Bryan Ferry, David Essex, and George Benson.

Chris Storr

Chris Storr is a world-class trumpet player whose career spans jazz, pop, soul, and orchestral music. A long-standing member of Jools Holland’s Rhythm & Blues Orchestra for over 20 years, Chris has also leads his own band, Fillet-o-Soul, with Fayyaz Virji, and recently completed a seven-year run in London’s West End on Tina: The Musical.

Chris has performed and recorded with an extraordinary range of artists, from BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing Band to global icons including Gregory Porter, Beyoncé, James Brown, Jay-Z, Adele, Kylie Minogue, Sir Paul McCartney, Don Henley, Amy Winehouse, Robin Thicke, Jessie J, Emeli Sandé, Patti LaBelle, Ray Lamontagne, James Morrison, Macy Gray, Lulu, Eric Clapton, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Ed Sheeran, Florence & The Machine, and many more.

His versatility extends to theatre and film, with credits including Easy Virtue, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day, The Great Gatsby, Paddington 1 & 2, The Little Mermaid, Common, Turks and Caicos, and the Worricker Trilogy. Chris has also worked extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company and across London’s West End.

Chris continues to perform and record with the finest artists, including Rod Stewart, Van Morrison, Tony Hadley, Blur, Brian May, Olivia Dean, PP Arnold, Take That, Raye, and Gorillaz, cementing his reputation as one of the UK’s most in-demand and versatile trumpet players.

Fayyaz Virji

Fayyaz Virji is a distinguished trombonist, composer, arranger, and producer whose career spans jazz, soul, pop, and cinematic music. Born in Tanzania and raised in the UK, he began his musical journey with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra and was a founding member of the pioneering Jazz Warriors. Early influences such as Duke Ellington, The Beatles, and Miriam Makeba inspired his passion for performance, composition, and production.

Renowned for his versatility, Virji has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music and remains a dynamic force on stage and in the studio. He is a long-standing member of Jools Holland’s Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and co-leads the band Fillet-o-Soul with Chris Storr. Fayyaz has also contributed to television, composing and arranging for BBC and Channel 4 documentaries including Science and Islam, Atom, Cromwell, The Seven Ages of Britain, Who Wrote the Bible?, and Science of Secrecy.

As a producer and arranger, his work includes albums and remixes for Carmel, Frayz, Aster Aweke, Dawda Jobarteh, Incognito, and modern ballet productions such as AfriCarmen by Bawren Tavaziva. He has arranged tracks for George Benson, Incognito, Mika, James Morrison, Chaka Khan, William Bell, and many Jools Holland Hootenanny performances.

Artists Fayyaz Virji has worked with include:
Dexy’s Midnight Runners, Jazz Warriors, Carmel, Basia, Carla Bley, Jason Moran, Andrew Hill, D’Angelo, Donna Summer, Jimmy Somerville, Howard Jones, Annie Lennox, Atomic Kitten, Fela Kuti, Mori Kante, Pet Shop Boys, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, George Michael, Tina Turner, Lauryn Hill, Ben Elton (TV session band), BBC Death in Paradise (remote recording sessions), Aster Aweke, Frayz, Anita Carmichael, Dawda Jobarteh, David “Baps” Baptiste, George Benson, Mika, James Morrison, William Bell, Ruby Turner, Beth Hart, Toots Hibbert, Melanie, Michael Kiwanuka.