Sextet

Carla Bley's "Sextet," released in 1987, is a captivating journey into the world of free jazz, showcasing the composer, bandleader, and keyboardist's unique vision and mastery. Recorded and mixed at Grog Kill Studio in Willow, New York, this album features a stellar lineup of musicians, including Hiram Bullock on guitar, Larry Willis on piano, Steve Swallow on bass, Victor Lewis on drums, and Don Alias on percussion, with Carla Bley herself on organ.

The album's six tracks, all composed by Carla Bley, offer a blend of cool, percolating Latin grooves and mildly incendiary rock solos, creating an engaging and dynamic listening experience. From the opening track "More Brahms" to the closing "Healing Power," Carla Bley's "Sextet" is a testament to her innovative approach to jazz, seamlessly blending various influences and styles.

With its appealingly cool organ melodies and near-lounge-style grooves, "Sextet" is a standout addition to Carla Bley's discography and a must-hear for fans of free jazz and jazz fusion. The album's 41-minute duration is filled with intricate compositions and impressive performances, making it a captivating exploration of Carla Bley's musical genius.

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.

Sextet

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