A passionate subset of Pat Metheny enthusiasts favor the Lee’s Summit native’s subdued solo guitar albums. Beloved recordings such as 2003’s One Quiet Night and last year’s MoonDial showcase the guitarist’s penchant for sensitive meditations.
Those listeners will relish Michael McClintock’s new album Here and There. McClintock, an expansive guitarist born in Neosho, Missouri, is cut from the same cloth as Metheny. McClintock is best known for his work in Brazilian and Cuban contexts, but Here and There consists largely of contemplative Metheny-esque instrumentals
The title of “From Topeka to Zurich” alludes to McClintock’s life as a globetrotting musician. The heartland folk-jazz composition possesses enough sophistication to resonate in Europe’s most cultured cities. The melodic “St. Matthew” sounds like an enchanted music box.
Given McClintock’s specialty, it’s odd that “Matancera” is Here and There’s only unsuccessful track. The jaunty workout feels out of place amid the otherwise serene recording that’s both emotionally soothing and intellectually invigorating.