Like a quick dip on a hot day, Mister Edd's music reminds one of a Caribbean cruise or a walk on a Jamaican beach. Originating from Southwest Michigan, the six-piece band is hitting the road performing music from the release of their first CD, Jump In The Pool! The recording contains thirteen original songs which include instrumentals, ballads, and a healthy dose of R & B-infused Rock and Roll. The songs' themes range from the social conscious (Back To The Border) to folk and blues (Jon's Jam and Someday). And of course, there's songs of love: love lost (She's Gone), love hoped for (Someday), and love of the earth (Tumboa). Some of the songs are just plain fun, like Mongo Bongo and the title track, which was inspired by Chuck Hartzell, the band's percussionist. 'The song has a section in it where I blow a whistle and I would say 'everybody jump in the pool.' The name just stuck,' he explained. Mongo Bongo has become a trademark audience participation number. 'Fun is a key element to the band, especially when performing live,' said keyboardist Dave Maki. 'We're all really good friends and we joke around a lot. Even doing the actual work--rehearsing, recording, doing shows--we're trying to have fun. The band consists of a versatile group of musicians. Besides keyboard, drums, guitar, bass guitar and vocals, there are saxes and what Tim King refers to as his 'Wind-Driver.' 'It gives the real feel of horns with the unlimited choice of synthesized sounds', states saxophonist King. In reality, the instrument is a Yamaha WX7 MIDI-controller and is played like a sax. Mierau's expressive MIDI guitar licks add to the electronic sounds, contrasting with the earthy acoustics of drums, various percussion and piano. When Mister Edd performs live, the music is irresistibly danceable. 'There's lots of rhythm and improvisation in our originals. I guess that's why our fans don't just listen, they get involved too,' said guitarist Lindsey Mierau. The group has opened up for jazz organist Charles Earland, guitarist Ken Navaro, sax man Nelson Rangell, and ex- Starship guitarist Craig Chaquico. Mister Edd was established as a four piece band in 1991. King, Mierau, and Maki had played together in other bands, and were pleased to have the opportunity to play with Skjordal. 'We get a great deal of energy being around each other,' drummer Ed Skjordal says. 'The goal is to play music we enjoy. There were a lot of years we played only covers, which gets old after awhile.' Hartzell, an old school friend, joined to add percussion in 1993. King and Maki shared bass responsibilities until November of 1994 when Kevin Leazenby was recruited. The musical six-pack was now complete. Their compatibility is the result of genuine friendship as well as common influences. Leaning toward concert venues, festivals, and private parties, the band avoided the standard covers, exploring more challenging tunes. The result is a more diversified play list. Within the first year of performing together, Mister Edd originals were claiming their place, charming audiences. With the help of all the band members, Maki and King produced Jump In The Pool! in their own recording studios, giving them total control of of final sound. When recording the horn solo in Mongo Bongo, King played to the end and out came a 'creative' note that he wanted to edit. Maki and Hartzell, in the control booth, both said 'No! It's perfect. Add one more just like it.' What does the future hold for Mister Edd? 'Promoting our music through live shows, recording our next CD--oh, and having fun!' said Maki. 'We're working out new material now....performing tunes live, working out arrangements.' Thinking of getting your feet wet yet? Well then......Jump In The Pool! Contact: Dave Maki (616) 925-0515 Tim King (616) 471-7200 E-mail: misteredd@qtm.net