John Medeski is known for his work with the explosive trio Medeski, Martin & Wood, a regular act that always sets Métropolis on fire during the festival. A blast, always. It’s worth mentioning this to better highlight the contrast between Medeski’s work as a member of that trio and what he does on this first solo album. No B3 organ here, just acoustic piano. More precisely: all Gaveau 1924 piano, seven feet. An exacting instrument, Medeski notes in the booklet, one that calls for nuanced and delicate playing, as well as the pianist’s full attention. The recording was also done the old-fashioned way, with two microphones, in analog. This technical setting frames a highly meditative musical setting, with the album’s seven compositions and two covers forming the thread of a timeless journey. Strong melodies, solid harmonic ideas, the piano’s full range put to good use. In the end, this body of ballads reveals an unseen side of Medeski. And for the better.