Pianist John Medeski will kick off his East Coast solo tour at Philadelphia’s World Cafe Live on Wednesday December 4th. Branching out from his roots with the world-renowned Medeski Martin and Wood (MMW), Medeski’s first solo album, A Different Time, was released by Sony’s Okeh Records on April 9th, 2013. The effort highlights Medeski’s abilities as virtuoso pianist as he encounters the instrument with a fresh subtlety and touch, exploring creative realms of improvisation and nonmetric composition.
John Medeski first gained recognition in the 1990s New York Jazz scene as the pianist for Medeski Martin and Wood, His ventures with MMW into new instrumental territories using the Hammond B3 Organ and Moog Voyager Synthesizer eventually led to him securing his foothold under the avant-garde umbrella. Medeski’s progressive nature and ability to skim easily between straight-forward funk, jazz, and experimental makes him a hot commodity among artists- he has gigged with the likes of Iggy Pop, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, John Scofield, and a slew of other extreme talents.
A Different Time boasts a new sound for John Medeski, who is touring with a Steinway piano and encroaching upon a classical sound not quite heard before in his previous endeavors. Medeski’s new album is soft and sweet but also disjointed and melancholic, spanning a vast array of emotions. It is incredible that a single man and a single instrument could achieve such range. Kicking off his tour in Philadelphia, Medeski will move on to grace the Virginia, New York, and Boston, among other destinations.
John Medeski’s performance at World Cafe Live should not be missed. Whether a long time fan of MMW, a couple looking for a serene and romantic atmosphere, or a music-loving musician, there is surely something in Medeski’s solo act for all. Fans can likely expect some classics, as well as new hits from A Different Time, including the sweet serenade Luz Marina or the Willie Nelson cover (How Do I Know) I’m Falling in Love Again. Be sure not to miss John Medeski kick-start his tour at Philadelphia’s World Live Cafe on Wednesday, December 4th! Doors are at 6:30pm, show starts at 8:00pm!
Preview by Dan Schack
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