April 07, 2006
Medeski, Martin & Wood, April 7
Better known as MMW, this instrumental trio returns to the Kimmel Center tonight for an evening of hip-hop trance-funk. They've backed Iggy Pop, shared stages with The Roots, Beck, and A Tribe Called Quest. Tonight, local phenomenon Slo-Mo will open the show.
What did you think of the show tonight?
Comments
I only knew some of MMW's songs before attending their performance at the Kimmel. But I must say that it was one of the best concerts I've been to.
I was familiar with their jazzy funk, but was surprised to see their strength in improvisation. They are a band that really plays off one another, listens for the pauses and appropriately explodes with energy after building tension.
I also enjoyed the whimsy of their little acoustic moments, where the piano player (Medeski) whipped out his portable keyboard with mouthpiece. It felt a bit like a gypsy parade.
My only gripe was that it was often difficult to hear the bass playing. I had noticed the same thing with the opening act, Slo Mo's, bass player. So I imagine that it wasn't the performers' fault.
I would certainly see MMW perform again, as I imagine that each show is unique.