Jazz
Contemporary Jazz newcomers, Rich Meehan Trio make their debut on the striking new single ‘Prelude’. Taken from the upcoming EP ‘Suite Antique’, the single is a first taste of the trio’s unique, multifaceted sound and has already been names Dinner Jazz Track Of The Week on Jazz FM. Fusing elements of classical with contemporary jazz and subtle flecks of electronica, the new single and upcoming EP offer an exciting look at this inventive new trio.
Led by composer and pianist Richard Meehan, the trios first single ‘Prelude’ opens with spacious, warming chords as subtle electronics dance around the soundscape courtesy of Jon Bierman. As the track builds, introducing tight, grounding drums courtesy of Paul Glover and warming bass from James Newman, the trio show off their ability as performers with moving time signatures and subtle key changes that surround Richard’s virtuoso piano playing.
Speaking on the new single, Richard explains: “Prelude sets out the stall for Rich Meehan Trio’s Suite Antique. A moody piano chorale bookends episodes of increasingly disquieting quartal harmony, as Bierman’s soaring synth work blends with the live trio’s stately groove. After an epic climax, it dies down to an electro-drone, ready to move on to the next track, an African polyrhythm-inspired Carillon.
I wanted to return to the music I made as a late teenager. Working with a language that was visceral, vital and unmediated by what others might think. The prelude balances this desire to explore new sounds, without this becoming the only priority of the music.”
Mixed by acclaimed, Mercury-nominated producer Gerry Diver (Sam Lee, Graham Coxon, Tom Robinson etc.) the new single exudes professionalism and is strikingly complete sounding despite being the trio’s first release. Already gaining acclaim from Jazz FM, Backseat Mafia and more, ‘Prelude’ is an exciting first look at a Jazz trio full of ideas and a unique multigenre sound.
