Pianist and composer Brad Mehldau’s Ride into the Sun—a songbook record of music by the late singer, songwriter, and guitarist Elliott Smith—is out now. It features performances by singer/guitarist Daniel Rossen of Grizzly Bear, singer/mandolinist Chris Thile, bassists Felix Moseholm and John Davis, drummer Matt Chamberlain, and a chamber orchestra led by Dan Coleman. The album's ten Elliott Smith songs are complemented by four Mehldau compositions inspired by him and interpretations of Big Star’s “Thirteen,” which Smith also covered, and “Sunday” by Nick Drake, whom Mehldau sees "in some ways as sort of Smith’s visionary grandfather.” "A stunning collection," raves Uncut. “A magnificent new record, which beautifully reimagines songs by Elliott Smith," says Record Collector. "A potent example of Mehldau’s ability to transport the listener to another world."

Brad Mehldau made his late-night television debut on ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live! last night, performing "Colorbars," the latest track from his upcoming album of Elliott Smith music, Ride into the Sun, with singer/mandolinist Chris Thile, bassist Felix Moseholm, and drummer Matt Chamberlain. You can watch it here.