Ode

Excellent! I find myself thinking how glad I am that someone else devoted their life to the Piano. The fact that at least one of us can make music like this gives me hope that we may actually be redeemed as a species.

One of my favorite jazz albums.

This album is truly something special. As mentioned the title "Ode" can be misleading. It's not just tunes that sound like other artists, this is very much an original Mehldau trio recording. Not to mention there are "odes" to his wife, his (amazing drummer) Jeff Ballard, an ode to the idea of odes themselves, and one to his favorite childhood superhero (Aquaman - when I saw the title I figured it'd be based on someone's nickname, the liner notes show that no, he really is writing to THAT Aquaman). He's really having fun with the idea.All that being said, there is absolutely nothing gimmicky about this record. It is at the same time a great vibe record - you can have it on in the background while deep in thought, reflection, etc. or you can actively listen to it as a piece of music that can be thoroughly enjoyed. The playing is all top notch. Grenadier has been with Mehldau throughout all of his trio recordings, and is the ultimate pinnacle of bassists for this style of jazz. Jeff Ballard on drums is otherworldly. He is perhaps the most unique jazz drummer in the scene today, his playing is never anything short of extraordinary with amazing feel.If you like piano jazz at all or just great music, I highly highly recommend this. It is everything we all love about acoustic jazz trios. I cannot say enough positives about it.

Mehldau and his trio just continue to get better: intricate yet accessible original compositions that transport the listener. I can hardly wait to hear him live this Spring in Seattle.

Excellent music. The group "cooks" and swings. The drummer is exceptional. This is the best Mehldau CD I've heard.

Best jazz album I have ever heard, love almost every song.

Great energy, creativity, great listening

Great cd and a timely delivery