Brad Mehldau - Ride Into The Sun [2LP]

Brad Mehldau stretches out beyond the jazz trio format and into cinematic soundscapes with Ride Into The Sun. This 2LP is a genre-defying journey worth taking.

Opening with the introspective “Maybe As His Skies Are Wide,” the album immediately signals a shift—layered electronics, haunting melodies, and ambient textures replace traditional swing. Mehldau builds emotion slowly, leaning into space and mood, inviting listeners to settle in and listen deeply.

A standout moment is his stunning cover of “Ride Into The Sun,” originally by The Velvet Underground. Here, Mehldau transforms it into a dreamy, melancholy ballad that feels like drifting through a neon-lit fog. Tracks like “Nostalgia Filter” and “Goodbye Storyteller (for J.B.)” blend classical piano with analog synths, creating something simultaneously modern and timeless.

This isn’t background jazz—it’s a fully immersive experience. Mehldau’s compositional voice shines, embracing everything from ambient minimalism to low-key prog-rock vibes. Each piece feels deliberate and emotionally rich, making this an ideal listen for headphone introspection or late-night vinyl spins.

Pressed on high-quality 2LP vinyl, this release gives the dynamic range and textures space to bloom. If you're ready to hear jazz’s boundaries pushed in all the right ways, this album will absolutely reward your curiosity.