Radiohead Jazz Covers
Nextbop’s Guide to the Best Radiohead Jazz Covers
Radiohead‘s music, with its complex harmonies, intricate rhythms, and emotionally resonant melodies, has proven surprisingly fertile ground for jazz interpretation.
While the band themselves often incorporates elements of jazz into their work, it’s the daring reinterpretations by jazz musicians that truly illuminate the depth and versatility of Radiohead’s compositions.
This guide explores some of the most compelling Radiohead jazz covers, showcasing how artists like Brad Mehldau, Robert Glasper, and others have taken these iconic songs and reshaped them through the lens of jazz, revealing new layers of meaning and beauty.
From introspective ballads to high-energy improvisations, these covers demonstrate the power of cross-genre pollination and the enduring appeal of Radiohead’s music in the world of jazz.
“Paranoid Android” Jazz Covers
Brad Melhdau
It was probably pianist Brad Mehldau who was most responsible for bringing Radiohead covers into the jazz idiom, hence it’s no surprises (pun intended) that we begin this article with some of his work.
“Paranoid Android” was one of the mainstays from Radiohead’s famed OK Computer album, and Mehldau revisited the track on several occasions throughout his recording history.
Our favorite remains the poignant and deeply moving 19-minute masterpiece recorded live in Tokyo for the album of the same name, while Mehldau’s Largo album also features a slightly more lively rendition that is worth checking out.
In addition, three other minimalist takes were featured on the Mon Chien Stupide soundtrack, which Mehldau penned for Franco-Israeli film director Yvan Attal.
Featured on the Albums:
Live in Tokyo (2004), Nonesuch
Largo (2002), Warner Records
Mon Chien Stupide Soundtrack (2019), Same Player
“Exit Music (for a Film)” Jazz Covers
Brad Melhdau
Also from OK Computer, and still with Mehldau, “Exit Music (for a Film)” was tackled on record three times by the pianist.
First, his Art of the Trio, Vol. 3 provides a poised and thoughtful take, which is then further developed on his next album, Art of the Trio, Vol. 4: Back at the Vanguard.
Then, 2011’s Live in Marciac revisits the cover again with a more dramatic rendition overflowing with counterpoints and staccatos.
Featured on the Albums:
Songs: The Art of the Trio, Vol. 3 (1998), Warner Records
The Art of the Trio, Vol. 4: Back at the Vanguard (1999), Warner Records
Live in Marciac (2011), Nonesuch
“Everything in Its Right Place” Jazz Covers
“Reckoner” Jazz Covers
“The Eraser” Jazz Covers
“No Surprises” Jazz Covers
“Bloom” Jazz Covers
“Knives Out” Jazz Covers
Conclusion
The interpretations explored in this article represent just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Radiohead jazz covers. From Brad Mehldau‘s introspective explorations to Robert Glasper‘s genre-bending fusions and the unique voices of artists like Yazz Ahmed and Christian Scott, each musician brings their own distinct perspective to these already complex compositions.
These covers not only pay homage to the brilliance of Radiohead’s songwriting but also highlight the boundless creativity and interpretive power of jazz. Ultimately, these cross-genre collaborations demonstrate the enduring strength of well-crafted music, its ability to transcend boundaries and resonate with audiences in unexpected and profound ways.
Whether you’re a fan of Radiohead, jazz, or simply appreciate the beauty of musical innovation, these covers offer a compelling listening experience, inviting us to hear familiar melodies in entirely new light.
Written by Sebastien Helary
Sebastien Helary is the founder and principal writer for Nextbop.com, a premier destination for contemporary jazz enthusiasts. His insightful contributions have also graced the pages of Time Out Montreal and Cult Montreal. Outside the realm of music and food journalism, Sebastien’s personal musings and artistry are showcased at Helaryous.com.
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