Joshua Redman, Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride & Brian Blade – LongGone (Quick Ship)

LongGone brings together four titans of modern jazz—Joshua Redman, Brad Mehldau, Christian McBride, and Brian Blade—for a rare and vibrant reunion. This album captures the quartet’s uncanny ability to converse musically, each voice distinct yet deeply attuned to the others. Redman’s tenor saxophone sings with narrative grace, Mehldau’s piano weaves intricate harmonic threads, while McBride and Blade anchor the ensemble with rhythmic intelligence and a sense of ever-present exploration. What sets LongGone apart is its balance between spontaneous invention and lyrical cohesion. The group’s interplay feels like an ongoing dialogue, alive with subtle humor, mutual respect, and unspoken understanding. These sessions revisit the spirit of their acclaimed 1994 collaboration, yet the years have only deepened their musical rapport and broadened their palette. For collectors, this album is a testament to the enduring potential of acoustic jazz in the 21st century: inventive, dynamic, and deeply human. Whether you’re a longtime devotee or new to their sound, LongGone offers an intimate window into the artistry of four musicians at the height of their creative powers.