Medeski Martin & Wood have announced the release of Free Magic due September 25 on the band’s label Indirecto Records. For its latest effort, MMW dip into their archives to present a collection of recordings documenting their first-ever acoustic tour in 2007. The set, stretching out over five expansive tracks, captures the three intrepid improvisers—keyboardist John Medeski, bassist Chris Wood and drummer Billy Martin—exploring the telepathic hookup and deep groove sensibility that has defined MMW since its inception in 1991.
"There’s a rhythmic and sonic connection that we have," says Martin of his MMW colleagues. "Listening is the most important thing for us. We’re having a conversation when we’re playing. The dynamic range is much greater in the acoustic setting. When we play electric, everything is turned up to 11 and it’s screaming. But with John on piano and Chris on upright, we can play with a much more nuanced touch. It’s a very different world, but I love it."
To support the release of Free Magic, MMW follow in the footsteps of the 2007 shows that comprise its latest album by embarking on only their second ever acoustic tour. The 11-city run will stretch across the Northeast in October.
Upcoming MMW dates are:
10/03 – Fall River, MA – Narrows Center for the Arts
10/04 – Glenside, PA – Keswick Theatre
10/05 – Boston, MA – Jordan Hall
10/06 – Albany, NY – Massry Center for the Arts
10/07 – Bethel Woods, NY – Bethel Woods
10/08 – Englewood, NJ – Bergen PAC
10/10 – Ridgefield, CT – Ridgefield Playhouse
10/11 – Stroudsburg, PA – Sherman Theatre
10/12 – Huntington, NY – The Paramount
10/13 – Washington, DC – Kennedy Center
10/14 – Annapolis, MD – Rams Head Tavern
Free Magic track listing:
1. Doppler
2. Blues For Another Day
3. Free Magic/Ballade In C Minor
4. Where’s Sly?
5. Nostalgia In Times Square/Angel Race
