Peter Bernstein’s “Better Angels” New Album Out Now
Featuring an All-Star Quartet with Brad Mehldau, Vicente Archer, and Al Foster, “Better Angels” Blends Standards with Bold Originals
Better Angels
by Peter Bernstein
Label: Smoke Sessions Records
Recorded: April 1, 2024, at Studio A, Power Station, NYC
Released: September 27, 2024
Peter Bernstein gathers an all-star quartet for his stunning new release, Better Angels, featuring pianist Brad Mehldau, bassist Vicente Archer, and legendary drummer Al Foster. While this marks the quartet’s debut, their individual connections run deep, fostering an undeniable chemistry that fuels the album’s dynamic interplay. Recorded on April 1, 2024, at Studio A, Power Station in NYC, Better Angels blends the familiar with the fresh, pairing standards with bold original compositions.
Set to release on September 27, 2024, via Smoke Sessions Records, Better Angels reflects Bernstein’s signature balance between elegance and innovation. The album showcases not only his mastery of guitar but also his deep collaborative spirit, particularly with Mehldau, a longtime friend and colleague dating back to their days at the New School. Their reunion alongside Archer and Foster generates a compelling mix of comfort and excitement as they explore both new compositions and well-known standards.
With songs like the opening track “Perpetual Pendulum” and the heartfelt ballad “Hazel Eyes,” Bernstein’s touch shines through. The group also offers fresh takes on standards like “You Go to My Head” and Duke Jordan’s “No Problem,” each piece elevated by Foster’s rhythmic ingenuity and Archer’s subtle yet powerful bass work.
Better Angels marks yet another chapter in Bernstein’s illustrious career, capturing the essence of musical connection and discovery.
Personnel
Peter Bernstein • guitar
Brad Mehldau • piano
Vicente Archer • bass
Al Foster • drums