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View Full Version : Brad Mehldau - A Thoughtful Discussion


musikmusik
06-19-2008, 01:48 PM
Fast bebop style lines in the right, thick and interresting chords in the left.

He is usually associated with a trio, but has also done beautiful solo work which can be compared to Keith Jarrett.

He usually plays standards, but also sometimes plays originals. Radiohead covers are common.

If I had to describe Bead Mehldau's improv playing, it would be beautifully constructed lines in the style of a saxophone player, running up and down through scales and memorized patterns. Extremely melodic solos that capture the essence of jazz, and syntax of freedom. He likes to go in and out of the key, thoughtfully connecting consonance and disonnance. He communicated well with the musicians he is playing with, but also becomes consumed by his own brain. The solos often start becoming disconnected with the rest of the group, and float onwards into a new dimension. His playing is generally light handed, but is free enough to allow moments of intensity.

I am curious how others would describe Brad Mehldau's playing.

ohcleverhansyou
06-20-2008, 03:23 AM
From what I've heard (not too much yet), I don't really like it when he goes out of key. It often sounds the same. Aside from his ventures off key, I really like his playing style. But that really turns me off. I'd need to listen to more to better describe his playing. But he has made good enough music for me to be interested.

blacklungfever
07-03-2008, 01:45 PM
Mehldau is one of my favourite pianists, I saw him a couple of months ago. Great show. Also, Larry Grenadier is SUCH a sick bassist, and Jeff Ballard is one hell of a drummer.

I think he sounds kind of angular sometimes, but I like that. It separates him from other pianists. It's cool to see him get totally engrossed in what he is playing and it almost seems like he isn't really even listening to his band (though I'm sure he is).

If you haven't heard it, get the album Alone Together with Charlie Haden and Lee Konitz. Downright amazing album.