I thought this audio was forever lost in the process of getting a new computer last year, but the magic of perusing old external hard drives grants us a special conversation (in audible format) with a special guest. The conversation was previously posted as a written article.
You could go an entire lifetime and never come across another artist like John Mailander. His musical voice resting on the precipice where beauty meets power. His even temperament balancing the sheer virtuosity that lays beneath his finger tips, riddled with character, grace and soul. The robust palette that he paints his sonic landscapes with is vast. Deep and pulling shades of blues and greys mingling with brilliant gold and saffron, covering the full breadth of emotion and vibe in even a single given tune or arrangement.
What I’ve found most intriguing and enviable about John and his music over the nearly decade I have known him and his songs in some capacity is his seamless ability to allow other artists around him to shine. His ability to slide gracefully between supporting role and band leader is inspired. Even more so, his genuine desire for those moments to happen is a beautiful testament to his being and light as both a performer and human. His music is less about the destination and the experience of getting there. Both in the creation and unity between the musicians creating the music and allowing the listener to take away their own nugget from the experience. Its a beautiful and special experience to be able to participate in.