Guelph, Ontario’s own soulful crooner Dan McLean Jr is preparing to unveil his highly anticipated debut album, Rhyme as Reason, slated for release on October 11, 2023. Preceding the album, McLean will treat fans to a taste of his soul-infused artistry with the release of the single “Kiss Me Once” available now.
For over four decades, Dan McLean Jr has captivated audiences with his expressive vocals and enchanting performances. However, Rhyme as Reason marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, featuring his first-ever collection of original adult-contemporary compositions.
McLean’s journey to his debut album was not without its challenges, as he battled and triumphed over cancer, emerging with a newfound perspective on life and love. Rhyme as Reason draws inspiration from affairs of the heart, exploring themes of breakups, denial, and the power of starting over. The album’s lead single, “Kiss Me Once,” encapsulates the excitement and euphoria of a new relationship, a sentiment that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Drawing inspiration from the iconic sounds of the ’70s, including influences like Hall & Oates, Todd Rundgren, and Meat Loaf, Dan McLean Jr’s music is celebrated for its emotional depth and intensity. Collaborating with Dave Dunlop, who has an extensive history working with artists like Rik Emmett of Triumph, McLean co-wrote the music for this remarkable album. Paired with the upbeat yet tender music, Mclean’s ability to convey feelings of intimacy and vulnerability sets him apart.
Rhyme as Reason boasts a stellar lineup of talent, including Grammy and Juno-winning executive producer Greg Wells, who has worked with chart-toppers such as Lin Manuel Miranda, John Legend, and Ariana Grande. Neil Donell, the current lead tenor singer for Chicago, lends his exceptional vocal prowess to the album, while Don Breithaupt, a 10-time Smooth Jazz Awards nominee, adds his keyboard magic. On drums is Paul DeLong, known for his years as Kim Mitchell’s drummer. The culmination of such immense talent converges to breathe life into McLean’s songwriting and lyrical vulnerability.
Renowned for his talent in crafting songs from unique character perspectives, McLean’s songs on Rhyme as Reason take on a cinematic quality, allowing listeners to delve into the emotions and experiences of his characters. Songs like “I Don’t Believe in Love” challenge audiences to confront the complexities of human emotion, while tracks like the album’s closing number, “Everything Out In The Darkness,” deliver powerful moral messages.
Prepare to be swept away by the soulful melodies and profound storytelling of Dan McLean Jr’s debut album, Rhyme as Reason, as it unveils a musical journey like no other.
