Brad Mehldau Trio
Live
Nonesuch Records
By George W. Harris

Recorded at The Village Vanguard in October,2006, “Live” features Mehldau’s 5th in concert recording, his fourth at the historic club, and his first with his “new” trio featuring drummer Jeff Ballard, who replaced longtime partner Jorge Rossy. The difference in drummers is quite tangible, as Ballard, while still maintaining the all important aspect of percussive communication with Mehldau, also provides an extra dose of punch to the proceedings, giving the band a bit more of an assertive feel. Instead of the introspective leanings on previous live recordings, this one settles into a groove on each tune, giving Mehldau more opportunity to explore the tensile aspect of each melody. Standards like “The Very Thought Of You” and “More Than You Know” have an expansiveness about them that invites ricocheting interplay between the leader, Grenadier, and Ballard. “CTA” at 16 minutes, and “Black Hole Sun”, clocking in at over 23 minutes, feature long stretches of Mehldau’s taking time to microscopically exam the rabbit trails of the melody, taking his time to use chords, single note runs and rhythmic variations in exploring the tunes. After touring with Pat Metheny last year, Mehldau seems musically reinvigorated; look for him coming to town real soon.