Songs: The Art of the Trio, Vol. 3
Pianist Brad Mehldau is best known for the moody storms that blow quiet and dark over his work. He's also no slouch when it comes to interpreting standards and penning originals marked by an eloquent, whisper-fine touch and an extra helping of emotion. On his fourth LP, Mehldau is again aided by his sympathetic and strong trio (drummer Jorge Rossy and bassist Larry Grenadier) for an outing that is delicate in its approach yet powerful in its result. Mehldau sometimes sounds like a classical musician out for a spot of jazz and to its credit, his rhythm section allows him to mine these rich, thoroughly pleasing veins.Art of the Trio, Vol. 3will certainly evoke thoughts of Bill Evans, but covers of songs by Radiohead, Nick Drake, Rodgers, and Hart alongside five strong originals stamp this as a strong album by one of our finest pianists.--S. Duda