On 16 October, John McLaughlin will release his 24th solo album, Now Here This, a stunning set of originals that finds the world-renowned guitar legend playing with the kind of unbridled musical spirit that prompted even Jeff Beck to declare him to be « the best guitarist alive. »
« It’s a very special album, and I’m so proud of it, » says McLaughlin, brimming with good-natured cheer as he kicks back in his hotel room just off Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. « You know, I’m 70 years old, and I still feel like there’s so much I have to do. There’s a lot to discover, so many questions to answer. »
On the subject of questions, we came armed with a bunch of them – from MusicRadar readers, no less. Plus, we threw in an all-time favorite of our own, one which has been known to break up bands, friendships and marriages for the past five decades. « Go for it, » McLaughlin says with a laugh. « I’m feeling good and ready. »