Local jazz performance saw Nicolas Meier, during which Jeff Beck proposed a tour with Brian Wilson, marking a significant turning point in Meier's career, while performing in a London jazz club.
In the world of music, collaborations can lead to some of the most memorable and inspiring works. Such is the case with Swiss guitarist Nicolas Meier and the legendary Jeff Beck.
Meier first came to Beck's attention in 2017, during a gig at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London. It was a significant moment for Meier, as he was spotted by Beck near the foot of the stage. The encounter marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would span several years and include extensive touring across Europe and the U.S.
Their collaboration, while primarily a touring and performing duo, did not result in a widely released studio album. However, Meier recently rerecorded a collection of songs he wrote for Beck, titled Last Sunset. This tribute album features a lineup that includes Lizzie Ball, Jimmy Haslip, Gary Husband, and Vinnie Colaiuta.
Last Sunset is a bracing set that seamlessly blends rifftastic rockers with futuristic jazz fusion burners. Meier's unique blend of jazz, metal, flamenco, and Middle Eastern influences offers a rich tapestry for Beck's distinctive sound to weave through.
In creating Last Sunset, Meier did not attempt to mimic Beck's playing style. Instead, he drew inspiration from his memories of their collaborations and the influence Beck had on his own music. This approach results in a sound that is vaguely Beck-ish, yet distinctly Meier's own.
The creation of Last Sunset was a labour of love for Meier. After a gig where Beck had come to see Meier and Lizzie Ball play, the invitation to jam at Beck's place turned into writing sessions. During these sessions, Beck suggested they go on tour with Brian Wilson.
Following the writing sessions, the trio played a local gig together. It was during this performance that the collaboration between Meier, Beck, and Ball evolved naturally through playing together and becoming friends.
Last Sunset is out now via MGP, and is a testament to the creative synergy that can occur when two talented musicians come together. For fans of Jeff Beck and Nicolas Meier, it's a must-listen.
[1] The Strad [2] Guitar World [3] The Guardian [4] Classical Guitar Magazine
- In an interview with The Guardian, Nicolas Meier revealed that the collaboration between him, Jeff Beck, and Lizzie Ball led to the creation of the album Last Sunset, a fusion of rock, jazz, and Middle Eastern influences.
- In the review for Guitar World, the rerecorded collection of songs was praised, with the reviewer noting Meier's unique blend of guitar styles, which created a sound that is reminiscent of Jeff Beck while maintaining its own identity.
- Aptly titled, Last Sunset serves as a poignant tribute to the entertainment world's influence on music, showcasing the harmonious fusion of a Fender Stratocaster, a Les Paul, and diverse amplifier tones on Classical Guitar Magazine.
