Friday Afternoon in the Universe

Medeski, Martin and Wood's "Friday Afternoon in the Universe" is like finding a hidden gem in a thrift shop full of dated tracksuits. This trio of jazz virtuosos has created an album that defies categorisation, blending elements of jazz, funk, and electronica to create a sound that is as colourful and unpredictable as a British summer. On tracks like "Acoustic Butterfly" and "Farolitos," the band showcases their impeccable musicianship, effortlessly weaving complex rhythms and melodies into a tapestry of sound that is both challenging and rewarding for the listener. The interplay between John Medeski's virtuosic keyboard work, Billy Martin's inventive percussion, and Chris Wood's melodic bass lines is nothing short of magical, creating a sonic landscape that is both familiar and alien, like waking up in a parallel universe where jazz reigns supreme. However, not every track on the album hits the mark. "Amber Gris" and "Dracula" feel like filler, lacking the same energy and inventiveness that make the rest of the album so compelling. But even in these moments of mediocrity, Medeski, Martin and Wood's talent shines through, reminding us that even at their worst, they are still head and shoulders above many of their peers. Overall, "Friday Afternoon in the Universe" is a bold and ambitious statement from a band that refuses to be pigeonholed. It may not be perfect, but it is certainly worth a listen for anyone looking to expand their musical horizons.