As an innovative and constantly inventive jazz pianist, Brad Mehldau has attracted a sizable following over the years, one that has grown to expect a singular, intense experience from his performances. With Formation, Brad seeks to extend that experience to the page, by sharing some of the deeply personal elements of his life, and how these came together for him to become the musician and person that he is today. For the first time, he offers an in-depth look at how he came to understand his adoption, survive sexual abuse, and overcome heroin addiction. The book creates a vibrantly-written portrait of the jazz world in New York in the late 1980s and early 1990s, showing how a generation of musicians met and sparked off one another to take the music in new directions, drawing on a wealth of influences but also keeping sight of tradition, including those rooted in both the jazz and classical worlds. The atmosphere of the clubs, the creative scene in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and Brad's early experiences of touring are brilliantly brought to life. The formation of the Mood Swing quartet with Joshua Redman is described, as is the growth of Brad's own groups, leading to his acclaimed Art of the Trio series of recordings with bassist Larry Grenadier and drummer Jorge Rossy. The trio's later life with Jeff Ballard joining in place of Rossy; Brad's solo ventures; and his explorations of other areas of music, are also covered. There is no holding back when it comes to Brad's period of heroin addiction - his painful personal decline and ultimate redemption make for compelling and often distressing reading. Yet throughout the book, his own reading and listening are a constant frame of reference and often inspiration, from the works of James Joyce and Thomas Mann to the sounds of Prog rock and Bob Dylan, not to mention critics from Harold Bloom to Terry Eagleton. The book can be read as a bildungsroman, but this coming-of-age is no novel, it is vividly lived personal experience. Intimate, vulnerable and profound, Formation is a rare look inside the mind of an artist at the top of his field, in his own words.
In his captivating book, "Formation: Building a Personal Canon, Part 1 (Popular Music History)," Brad Mehldau, the renowned jazz pianist and composer, delves into the rich tapestry of popular music history, crafting a personal canon of influential albums that have shaped his musical journey. With his characteristic eloquence and insightful analysis, Mehldau embarks on an exploration of these seminal works, shedding light on their cultural significance, artistic merit, and enduring appeal.
Through Mehldau's words, readers are transported back in time to the vibrant eras that birthed these iconic albums. From the electrifying energy of early rock and roll to the introspective musings of jazz greats, from the soulful melodies of R&B to the experimental soundscapes of electronic music, Mehldau paints a vivid picture of the diverse musical landscapes that have left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.
With each album, Mehldau offers a glimpse into the creative minds that brought them to life. He illuminates the intricate interplay between artists and their influences, the social and political contexts that shaped their music, and the enduring impact they have had on subsequent generations of musicians. Through his insightful commentary, Mehldau invites readers to engage in a deeper appreciation of these musical masterpieces, encouraging them to listen with fresh ears and discover new layers of meaning.
"Formation: Building a Personal Canon, Part 1 (Popular Music History)" is not merely a catalog of great albums; it is a testament to the transformative power of music. Mehldau's personal journey through these works becomes a universal exploration of the ways in which music can shape our lives, inspire creativity, and connect us to a shared human experience. As readers delve into the pages of this book, they will find not only a wealth of musical knowledge but also a profound appreciation for the enduring legacy of popular music.
