SPEC to bring U. 'ultimate groove'

Medeski Martin and Wood will perform at Penn December 13. Called "one of America's great touring bands" by Rolling Stone magazine, Medeski Martin and Wood will bring some "combustication" to Penn on December 13. Their style incorporates jazz, funk, hip hop, blues and rock, and critics call MMW the "ultimate groove band," according to the leaders of the Social Planning and Events Committee's Jazz and Concerts Committee. After calling agents and making arrangements all summer, SPEC Jazz Chairperson Mike Turi said he was able to bring the committee's first-choice band to campus. "They are not your classic jazz band," said Turi, a College senior. "The three musicians of Medeski Martin and Wood complement each other perfectly in an improvisational way, and this makes the band extremely engaging." Organist John Medeski, drummer Billy Martin and bassist Chris Wood began their 1998 tour in Philadelphia at the Electric Factory on October 8 and will return at the conclusion of their Southeast tour. SPEC Concerts Director Jocelyn Jennings said that while the concert will fall very close to the week of finals, the band's success made it hard to schedule them for a different date. "Due to the popularity of the band, it was difficult to find a date that was convenient for them that matched the venues available at the University," the Nursing senior said. "Hopefully, it won't be a problem, since they seem to have quite a following at Penn." Combustication is the band's sixth and latest album, and fourth major-label release. Other albums have included Notes from the Underground, It's a Jungle in Here, Friday Afternoon in the Universe and Shack Man. In addition to MMW'S popular improvisational jams, DJ Logic will open the concert with funky scratching rhythms and add new dimensions to several of MMW's new tracks. "Due to the band's increasing popularity and unique flavor, we expect MMW'S appearance to be sold out," said Jennings. "The devotion of their fans is incredible." The concert will be held in the Harrison Auditorium of the University Museum of Anthropology and Archeology. The auditorium capacity is only 800, which offers students the chance to experience the band on a more intimate, personal level. Jon Herrmann, a SPEC Concerts member, said he is very excited about MMW'S Penn appearance. "Not only is MMW coming to Penn, but the students will have the opportunity to see them in a smaller and more intimate venue than at their past Philly experience," the Wharton junior said. "As far as I remember, they have not played in a theater ever in Philly, and believe me, this makes a difference." Last year, SPEC Jazz brought Bela Fleck and the Flecktones to campus; the show was a huge success. "Last year's show established the circular room as a venue for bands obsessed with high-talent grooves that don't allow the audience to miss a beat," said Herrmann. "MMW, however, might be even better."

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