Great ensemble playing
dh-6 | Morton Grove, Illinois USA | 10/19/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I checked these guys(ex-AN, with keyboard player Karl M.'s brother, Eric, doing an admirable job filling in on drums) a couple week's ago at Chicago's Green Mill. I also saw them well over a year ago (the night before the recording) and they really cooked. I've been waiting patiently for the CD to be released.Well I'm not disapointed. Beyond great ensemble playing, JM's diverse compositions really facilitate individual solos (everyone gets plenty of "open" time). JM plays beautifully on acoustic & electric guitar.Being a GM regular, I've had the opportunity to see all of these guys play in different groups over the years, but this is definately one of the best. I've been a fan of Jim Gailloretto (Sax) for years & he blows harder with this band (& on this CD) than any other."
Brave New Voice In Jazz Guitar
D Regel | Detroit, MI | 09/12/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"John McLean's "Easy Go" is perhaps one of the most important jazz guitar records in recent history. Why? Hmmmnnn, let me count the ways. To begin with, it is the consummate demonstration of one who has studied the parameters of jazz improvisation as drawn by his predecessors on ANY instrument, and who has with this record bravely and effectively broadened those parameters. John's remarkable constraint and use of space as a highly effective musical device and foil to his remarkable technique makes for a stunning musical experience. As an improviser he calls to mind Pat Metheny and Pat Martino from time to time, although he demonstrates and extemporaneous resourcefulness that may just surpass those two. Check out "Blues for Wood" for relevant proof - what a mind-numbing display of symmetry inside and outside the changes!
John is equally adept compositionally. From the pure beauty of "Sag Harbor" to the high drama of "Fat Chance", John proves his skill in creating musical statements that go well beyond vehicles simply designed to frame his improvisational prowess, however tempting that must be for one of his surpassing skill.
Beyond his own compositions, John's gorgeous re-working of Jaco's "Three Views of a Secret" and the hauntingly beautiful interpretation of Miles' "Blue In Green" make this record well worth the price of admission.
Backed by a stellar supporting cast, John McLean has succeeded in creating one of those "desert island discs" we all talk about. What's even more exciting is that it serves as a harbinger of what I feel will be some highly pioneering musical offerings from John in the future. No pressure there, John!
p.s. Thanks, John, for signing the CD for my son Jack at the Chicago Jazz Fest. I'll be darned if the little guy isn't totally into this record, though he still digs Sco a whole lot, too!"
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1