John McLaughlin Returns after 25 years
These dates mark McLaughlin’s first headline shows in Australia in nearly 25 years, having not toured with his own band since 1991. McLaughlin was last here for five shows with Chick Corea as part of their Five Peace Band project in 2009.
As a musician, composer and bandleader, John McLaughlin’s contribution to contemporary improvisational music is undeniable.
Now, John McLaughlin is prepared to break through yet again, with what he feels is his most personal statement to date: Black Light, due for release this spring.
On his 18th full-length LP, McLaughlin has returned to acoustic guitar for a tribute to his friend, Paco De Lucia, entitled “El Hombre Que Sabia” and brings forth a depth of sadness and admiration beyond words. “I have explored ways in music and recorded them with happiness,” McLaughlin notes. “Black Light has opened a portal that is neither jazz nor rock, nor Indian nor blues, and yet all of these: it’s an open door.”
Black Light also features the 4th Dimension in full flight, with their empathy and precision honed on stage and in the studio.
Composed of the remarkable multi-instrumentalist Gary Husband on keyboards and drums, Etienne Mbappe’s nimble, effervescent electric bass, and the powerhouse drumming of Ranjit Barot, The 4th Dimension comprise “my three favourite musicians,” adds McLaughlin.
Who: John McLaughlin and the 4th Dimension
When: Thursday the 8th of October at 8:00 PM
Where: City Recital Hall Angel Place
Tickets on sale from August 17