Record Reviews

JOHN MCLAUGHLIN ~ BLACK LIGHT ABSTRACT LOGIX 050 (Barcode: 700261424491) ~ UK ~ Jazz-Rock-World Fusion Recorded: 2015 Released: 2015 This is the third studio album by British Jazz guitar maverick John McLaughlinFind albums by this artist, recorded with his 4th DimensionFind albums by this artist band, which includes British keyboardist / drummer Gary HusbandFind albums by this artist, Cameroonian bassist Etienne M`BappeFind albums by this artist and Indian drummer and konokol vocalist Ranjit BarotFind albums by this artist. The album presents eight original compositions, all by the leader. The music is a unique mixture of Jazz-Rock Fusion with World Music elements, with a distinct Indian touch, but also Flamenco touches and other underlying elements. For McLaughlin followers this music combines everything he did in the five decades preceding this recording, including Mahavishnu OrchestraFind albums by this artist, ShaktiFind albums by this artist and his extensive solo work. McLaughlin’s performances are brilliantly ageless, and his virtuosity seems to be completely unmindful of the years that passed by since he appeared on the scene. He has more energy and open-mindedness than guitarists half his age, which of course is hardly surprising to his many followers. 4th Dimension is a perfect band for McLaughlin, as it encapsulates all the elements he likes to have around when creating music. Husband supports McLaughlin most amicably, contributing some superb keyboard parts, and the rhythm section is like a good natured tornado, driving the music with enormous energy but at the same time being incredible precise and considerate. Since this album was released in 2015, the popular rumors circulating until a couple of month before I write these words stated, that this is probably the last studio album by McLaughlin, but in July 2021 McLaughlin delightfully surprised all his followers with the release of the pandemic influenced new album entitled “Liberation TimeFind albums with this title”, which of course will get its own write-up here. Overall, this is a brilliant album from start to finish, which continues the sublime recording legacy by the greatest guitarist that we were all blessed to hear in all time. Thank you John for a lifetime of music!

Updated: 04/09/2021Posted: 04/09/2021

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