This is the first release in the Radiolarians Series, a three album project that Medeski, Martin & Wood began in early 2008 and which follows a specific formula. The trio, which consists of keyboards, drums, and bass, would first write the outline of some songs, then take them on the road to be continually tweaked and refined, and then record the results shortly after each tour was over. As Radiolarians 1 demonstrates, it’s a winning concept for such an adventurous band because it captures the energy and unpredictability of their live shows. It also reveals their impressive range and depth. Opening with the otherworldly atmospherics of “First Light,” the album also features the loosely controlled frenzy and experimentation of “Cloud Wars,” “Rolling Son,” and “God Fire,” as well as the classic funk jazz that MMW does so well on songs like “Muchas Gracias” and “Sweet Pea Dreams.” There are also some pleasant surprises sprinkled throughout the recording, including some tasty acoustic guitar by Wood and haunting melodica passages by Medeski. Radiolarians 1 is further proof that there are few musical places where this prolific trio can’t, and won’t, venture.