Trios

"Trios," released in 2013, marks a significant milestone in Carla Bley's illustrious career, as it is her first album recorded directly for the prestigious ECM Records. This album reunites Bley with her longtime collaborators, saxophonist Andy Sheppard and bassist Steve Swallow, forming a trio that has been a staple in the jazz world for over two decades. Recorded in April 2013 at the Auditorio Radiotelevisione svizzera in Lugano, this album showcases the trio's exceptional chemistry and musical prowess.

The album features five captivating tracks, each offering a unique blend of free jazz and traditional jazz elements. "Útviklingssang" opens the album with a contemplative piano melody, setting the stage for the intricate interplay between Bley, Sheppard, and Swallow. "Vashkar" follows with a more upbeat tempo, highlighting Sheppard's dynamic saxophone work. The centerpiece of the album is "Les trois lagons (d'après Henri Matisse)," a three-part suite inspired by Henri Matisse's artwork, which showcases the trio's ability to weave complex compositions with seamless transitions. "Wildlife" and "The Girl Who Cried Champagne" round out the album with their distinctive rhythms and melodies, demonstrating the trio's versatility and depth.

"Trios" is a testament to Carla Bley's enduring talent and her ability to push the boundaries of jazz. With its rich textures and innovative arrangements, this album is a must-listen for any jazz enthusiast. The collaboration between Bley, Sheppard, and Swallow is a celebration of their collective musical journey, offering a glimpse into the creative process of three of the most respected figures in contemporary jazz. Whether you're a longtime fan of Carla Bley or a newcomer to her work, "Trios" is an album that will captivate and inspire.

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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