Record Reviews

NICOLAS MEIER ~ ELYSIAN DRIFT MGP 028 (Barcode: 5051078028620) ~ UK ~ Jazz-World Fusion Recorded: 2026 Released: 2026 This is an album by Swiss (resident in UK) guitarist / composer / bandleader Nicolas MeierFind albums by this artist, recorded with his World GroupFind albums by this artist, which includes pianist Alex HuttonFind albums by this artist, violinist Richard JonesFind albums by this artist, bassist Tom MasonFind albums by this artist, Spanish drummer Demi Garcia SabatFind albums by this artist and vocalist Randolph MatthewsFind albums by this artist. Spanish flamenco guitarist Jose AlmarchaFind albums by this artist guests on one track. The album presents twelve tracks, all but one original compositions by Meier. Not surprisingly, this is another outstanding release by Meier and his cohorts, which continues the stream of beautiful Jazz-World Fusion albums released over the years. Although it seems impossible that Meier would be able to repeat his successful formula time after time, he is not only able to maintain the class and glamour, but even takes it to yet another level, especially thanks to the addition of the wonderful vocalese, which is the new element on this album. His excellent and heartfelt compositions are still top notch, as is his virtuosic guitar technique, and the group keeps the music flowing briskly, changing the folkloristic influences between Spanish, Middle Eastern, Gypsy, Balkan and other accents, keeping the listener on a true musical carpet ride. Overall, Meier is definitely an absolute Master, in full control of this unique niche he managed to create, which takes the essence of music from all around the world and creates a magnificent amalgam, which is irresistible to human ears. The only thing that I regret is not yet hearing his music live, which I hope to be able to rectify as soon as possible.

Updated: 04/11/2026Posted: 03/11/2026

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