The Legendary John Mclaughlin And The 4th Dimension

October will herald the much-anticipated return to Australian soil of pioneering virtuoso guitarist John John McLaughlin, for headline performances in Perth, Sydney and Brisbane, together with a previously announced appearance at Melbourne Festival.

These dates mark McLaughlin’s first headline shows in Australia in nearly 25 years, having not toured with his own band since 1991. McLaughlin was last here for five shows with Chick Corea as part of their Five Peace Band project in 2009.

As a musician, composer and bandleader, John McLaughlin’s contribution to contemporary improvisational music is undeniable.

From his work with Miles Davis during the legendary “Bitches Brew” and “Jack Johnson” sessions, then with Mahavishnu Orchestra, with Shakti and now with his current band, The 4th Dimension, McLaughlin’s work has obliterated the boundaries dividing jazz, rock and global musical traditions.

Now, John McLaughlin is prepared to break through yet again, with what he feels is his most personal statement to date: Black Light, due for release this spring.

Tickets will go on sale at 10am Monday August 17.

Telstra Thanks is bringing an exciting 48-hour pre-sale just for Telstra customers from 10am Monday August 10 until 10am Wednesday August 12. For more information on how to purchase, visit: telstra.com/music.

My Live Nation members can also be among the first to access tickets during the pre-sale commencing midday Wednesday August 12.

For complete tour and ticketing details, visit: livenation.com.au.

On his 18th full-length LP, McLaughlin has returned to acoustic guitar for a tribute to his friend, Paco De Lucia, entitled “El Hombre Que Sabia” and brings forth a depth of sadness and admiration beyond words. “I have explored ways in music and recorded them with happiness,” McLaughlin notes. “Black Light has opened a portal that is neither jazz nor rock, nor Indian nor blues, and yet all of these: it's an open door."

Black Light also features the 4th Dimension in full flight, with their empathy and precision honed on stage and in the studio.

Composed of the remarkable multi-instrumentalist Gary Husband on keyboards and drums, Etienne Mbappe’s nimble, effervescent electric bass, and the powerhouse drumming of Ranjit Barot, The 4th Dimension comprise “my three favourite musicians”, adds McLaughlin.

Don’t miss out on the remarkable and genre-defying performances by John McLaughlin and the 4th Dimension.