Max Beesley’s High Vibes release jazz-funk fusion album ‘Zeus’
Max Beesley’s High Vibes released two classic 12inches on Boogie Back Records at the height of the Acid Jazz movement in 1993/1994. For the new album, Beesley set out to create something very special and reached out to some of the greatest session players in the world to play on the record.
Steve Gadd was a friend from many years ago when the two played on George Benson’s 1996 album That’s Right. Steve came on board and suggested his good friend Walt Fowler would be a great addition for soloing on flugel and trumpet. Walt said he would love to be a part of the record and was terrific to work with. His tone is unsurpassable and perfect for the High Vibes record. Max then reached out to renowned guitarist Dean Parks who is one of the most recorded player in the 21st century. Dean also loved the tracks and wanted to record. Max has admired Luis Conte for many years and he has worked extensively with Steve, Dean and Walt in the James Taylor band among virtually every artist in the world, so it was great to add him to the line-up.
Jerry Meehan is Max’s close school friend. Together they have produced and written songs, film scores and toured together with many artists. Jerry also served as a co-producer on the record: “Jerry’s my fav bass player in the world and his musicianship unsurpassable”. Finally, Max’s good friend Christian Sands plays keyboards on the album. Max cites him as one of the greatest players of his generation today and was very eager to have him on the record. Christian’s contribution is phenomenal. The Horn House rounded the musicians off. Nichol Thomson on trombone, Tom Walsh trumpet and Mike Davis also adding trumpet on some tracks. They are Max’s fav horn section. Nichol and Max arranged all horns and the result is electrifying.
Max Beesley is an actor and musician from Manchester UK. At 11 he was awarded a scholarship to Chethams School of Music where he studied piano, percussion and composition.
‘Zeus’ out on LP / CD / digitally on Sep 29th 2023 via Légère Recordings
