The Art Of The Trio, Volume One
Prodigious technique, an emphasis on harmonic impressionism and delicately strung arpeggios, a preference for the high-wire austerity of piano, bass, and drums: if jazz pianist Brad Mehldau sounds like he's grooming himself as the next Bill Evans, his second album only heightens the comparisons, right down to its deadly serious title. Happily, Mehldau pulls it off on this critically-acclaimed 1997 release, which finds his luminous touch bringing fresh power to standards (including the opening "Blame It on My Youth," "I Didn't Know What Time It Was," and a lovely reading of the Beatles' "Blackbird") and some equally strong originals. Drummer Jorge Rossy and bassist Larry Grenadier prove sympathetic partners, but it's Mehldau who transcends mere technical cuff-flashes to let the underlying lyricism carry the day.--Sam Sutherland