He is one of the greatest contemporary jazz guitar players, who can fill large concert halls in almost any large city around the world. But Pat Metheny this month embarks on an ambitious project which, rather than resting on his laurels, breaks new ground for him and his fans.Working with a group of inventors Metheny has harnessed the power of a mechanical device called an Orchestrion which allows him to trigger a range of instruments, almost like a small orchestra, which he has written for and controls in his own solo show. Ahead of his debut UK show with the new concept and as his new album Orchestrion is released Stephen Graham talks to Pat about the inspirations behind the project in this step into the unknown

The last time Pat Metheny produced a solo album back in 2003 it was a relatively straightforward affair. Titled One Quiet Night it was just the guitarist in the quietness of his home studio playing a mostly soft set on the seldom-heard baritone guitar. But, instead of standing still, Metheny has gone instead for one of the most demanding projects of his career.

“This is the biggest challenge,” he says feistily, “based on faith at the beginning if it was even going to work. I just can’t help it. What am I going to do, play ‘Bright Size Life’ for the rest of my life? Part of the job description is to keep things moving and keep asking questions.

This is an extract from Jazzwise Issue #137 – to read the full article click here to subscribe and receive a FREE copy of the latest Portico Quartet CD 'Isla'.