Medeski, Martin & Wood: Chris Wood (vocals, guitar, harmonica, bass instrument); John Medeski (keyboards); Billy Martin (drums, mbira, percussion).
Medeski, Martin & Wood made an album for kids? Well, why not? The trio's individual members are funky, fun, and free-spirited enough and, more importantly, they each have the smarts and sophistication to know that kids shouldn't be condescended to. The result is a frolicsome set that is joyously playful without being dumbed down.
With titles like "Pat a Cake," "We're All Connected," and "Pirates Don't Take Baths," it's easy to guess the sensibility behind LET'S GO EVERYWHERE. The band members brought their children (and other guests) into the studio for the vocals, creating a happy, all-inclusive singalong atmosphere in perfect keeping with the project's vibe. What hasn't changed is the high-minded improvisatory aesthetic central to MMW's jazzy, groove-oriented sound, which helps make LET'S GO EVERYWHERE as engaging to the group's regular fans as it will be to the average five-year-old.