Search - Medeski Martin & Wood :: Radiolarians 3 (Dig)

Like all MMW, it bears repeated listening

Chris Weekly | Plymouth, MA United States | 08/04/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This whole Radiolarians series is phenomenal. If you're new to MMW you might want to start with Shack Man and Friday Afternoon in the Universe... but this is all pretty accessible even to the uninitiated. These guys are just amazing, I feel they're historically great. But leaving aside their "importance", just put on some headphones and lose yourself here. Highly, highly recommended."

Another excursion into the avant-garde

The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 11/14/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Volume III is an enjoyable book end to a good series. As with the two proceeding recordings, Medeski Martin and Wood keep things pretty loose. Comparatively, the trilogy doesn't have as many of the anthemic types of tunes that are so prevalent on recordings like "Uninvisible" and "Shack Man." Melody, groove and arrangement make casual appearances. Rock and funk are in the vehicle, but more often than not, avant-garde is in the driver's seat. That written, it's very listenable when compared to albums like "Notes from the Underground" and "Farmer's Reserve." While Radiolarians probably shouldn't be anybody's introduction to the band, this is a good listen for steadfast listeners. Sonically, there are acoustic moments, but most of the environment is electric. As a nod to the band's more accessible material, 'Undone' may be the highlight, followed by 'Walk Back.' 'Jean's Scene' is a fun frolic through Cuba. In this piece, it sounds like John Medeski was possessed by Rubén González. The other songs are enjoyable but not especially compelling. Even compared to the rest of the series, volume III is arguably the weakest. All in all, Radiolarians III is a quality listen for the devoted."