John Medeski - Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz Radio Broadcast

Marian McPartland's PIANO JAZZ radio show has hosted some of the finest musicians in the genre, and it is a credit to McPartland and the show that they include younger players as well as the host's old-school cohorts. Best known for leading the trio Medeski, Martin, and Wood, John Medeski brings a classic jazz sensibility into the ensemble's funky, free-form explorations. The degree to which Medeski's grounding in traditional jazz informs his playing is especially evident on this show.

Medeski discusses with McPartland the influence of Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk on his playing (and performs a piece by each--"Caravan" and "Bemsha Swing," respectively). The two also discuss Medeski's cross-genre leanings and his use of electronics, among other topics, while taking breaks to jazz it up on the ivories. The combination is fascinating, providing a true insight into the form, background, and sensibility of a jazz pianist.

1. Conversation
2. Bolivar Blues
3. Conversation
4. Out Of This World
5. Conversation
6. Bemsha Swing
7. Conversation
8. Threnody
9. Conversation
10. Caravan
11. Conversation
12. Otis
13. Conversation
14. Free Piece
15. Conversation
16. Bubble House

Released April 18, 2006