Selected Recordings

Dive into the eclectic and innovative world of Carla Bley with "Selected Recordings," a compelling compilation released in 2004 under the ECM Records label. This album is a testament to Bley's versatility and genius, spanning over a decade of her groundbreaking work in the realms of free jazz and contemporary jazz. With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, the album features 11 tracks that showcase Bley's unique compositions and performances, including live recordings that capture the raw energy of her stage presence.

"Selected Recordings" is not just a collection of songs; it's a journey through Bley's artistic evolution. The album opens with "Baseball," a track that sets the tone for the eclectic mix of styles and influences that follow. Highlights include "End of Vienna," a piece that exemplifies Bley's ability to blend classical and jazz elements seamlessly, and "On the Stage in Cages," a longer composition that showcases her prowess in arranging and conducting large ensembles. The album also features live performances of "Major" and "Chicken," providing a glimpse into Bley's dynamic live performances.

This compilation is part of the "Rarum" series, which is dedicated to presenting diverse and fascinating cross-sections of Carla Bley's work. The album includes tracks that have been remastered and presented in a digipak format, ensuring that the audio quality is top-notch. Whether you're a long-time fan of Carla Bley or a newcomer to her music, "Selected Recordings" offers a comprehensive and engaging introduction to her unique artistic vision.

Carla Bley, a titan of jazz composition and performance, left an indelible mark on the genre with her innovative and emotionally resonant work. Born in America, Bley was a pivotal figure in the free jazz movement of the 1960s, known for her bold avant-garde compositions and her ability to create music that was both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. Her magnum opus, the jazz opera "Escalator over the Hill," showcased her unique vision and storytelling prowess. Throughout her career, Bley's compositions were performed by a who's who of jazz greats, including Gary Burton, John Scofield, and her ex-husband Paul Bley. A pioneer in independent record labels, Bley recorded over two dozen albums between 1966 and 2019, continually pushing the boundaries of jazz. Her Trio, active for over two decades, was her primary vehicle for musical expression in her later years. Bley's wit and individualism were as legendary as her music, earning her the nickname "Countess Bleysie" among fellow musicians. Her passing in 2023 marked the end of an era, but her influential body of work continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

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