MACLEAN, EDWARD - Me&You (Sealed) (CD)

January 2017 sees the release of bassist Edward Maclean’s Me&You, the second LP in his own name. Underlining his standout signature, the profound and masterful album interweaves the sounds of our times with inspiration from the seventies. Infectious groove-centred compositions meet deep ballads, with hymnal passages lining up alongside almost meditative vibes. Maclean’s album title invokes a direct form of communication, without agendas or preconceived thought patterns, without listening expectations. That idea is reflected in his work – making music up close to the listener and intensely personal. Christian K?gel on guitar and drummer Tobias Backhaus were on board for the first album, now joined by tenor saxophonist Sebastian Borkowski and keyboarder and pianist Matti Klein. These four superb musicians bring together stage experience ranging from Jerri Granelli to Till Br?nner all the way to Mo’Blow and Jazzanova. Edward Maclean has played with Peter Fox, Dendemann, Nils W?lker, Jessica Gall and the S?hne Mannheims. He’s in great demand on electric and double bass for his rock-solid timing and the grounded basslines and tuneful solos he brings to the stage. Maclean’s main priority, though, is always a band’s overall sound. Coupled with his engaging communication style, this makes him a much-valued musical director. During his impressive career as a sideman, his focus has shifted increasingly towards composing and producing, resulting in his 2013 debut album Edward Maclean’s Adoqu?. Edward Maclean has expertly circumnavigated the dangers of the difficult second album. Me&You exudes relaxed nonchalance, grounded on absolute dedication and confident trust in what comes to pass.