originally published: 08/06/2025
Photo by Elia Ma
(BOSTON, MA) -- Maxwell Close, a talented drummer and composer from Berklee College of Music, led his Maxwell Close Collective in a memorable concert at the Berklee Performance Center (BPC) on Thursday, July 17, 2025. The performance, a rare opportunity for a Berklee student to headline at the BPC, offered an evening of innovative music that also honored jazz icon John Coltrane on the anniversary of his passing. The event brought approximately 150 attendees to the Berklee Performance Center venue.
Close, 21, originally from Pennington, New Jersey, showcased his distinctive blend of jazz, funk, and fusion. The 16-musician ensemble included horns, strings, keyboards, a rhythm section, and world instruments, alongside special guest artists. The setlist featured primarily original compositions, with two pieces dedicated to Coltrane, demonstrating Close's broad artistic range.
Maxwell Close grew up in Pennington, NJ, and attended The Pennington School. Now a Massachusetts resident, Maxwell has enjoyed his musical journey in Boston and has fallen in love with his retreats to Rangeley, Maine.
All photos by Elia Ma
Maxwell’s new EP, Rangeley, was named after what he perceived as the best song on his new EP.
His grandparents, Donald (Skip) M. Sykes Jr. and Frances P. Sykes, purchased a vacation home in Rangeley, many years ago and Maxwell and his family would vacation there every summer throughout the course of his life.
“I have a personal connection to Rangeley,” says Maxwell. “I come to relax, embrace my artistry, and become inspired. It’s so peaceful there.”
Audience Reactions Highlight the Night’s Impact
The performance struck a powerful chord with attendees, who praised the ensemble’s musicianship and Close’s artistic vision:
“A night of great music by some of the finest young, up-and-coming musicians, spearheaded by drummer Maxwell Close. Keep an eye—and an ear—out for these guys and girls!” — Greg Saffares, Guilderland, NY
“I was mesmerized by the music. Ten out of ten—loved it!” — Lourdes Ronquillo, Trenton, NJ
“I didn’t expect 90 minutes of fusion jazz at that level. A truly wonderful performance.” — Ghahre Pascale, McKinney, TX
Explore Maxwell Close's Unique Sound on New EP
Close's BPC performance offered a glimpse into his evolving musical journey, which now includes the release of his new EP, Rangeley. Available now on all major streaming platforms, the EP offers listeners an even deeper exploration of his unique sound.
“I’m most proud of how honest and complete it feels,” Close shared about Rangeley. “This EP is the best representation of who I am musically; it doesn’t sound like anything else out there. Every track feels intentional.”
Maxwell and three other members of the Maxwell Close Collective will be opening for “The Electric Alliance” on September 3rd at the Middle East Restaurant and Nightclub in Cambridge and on September 10th at the Lizard Lounge in Cambridge.
To stay updated on Maxwell Close's music and future performances, follow him on Instagram: @maxclose.
Making the trip from New Jersey to show their support were Max’s proud family members: sisters Charlotte and Nora Close, Max Close, his mother Tiernan Close, and father Matthew Close. Photo by Elia Ma
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