Carla Bley's "Songs With Legs" is a captivating live album that showcases her innovative spirit and mastery of free jazz. Released on January 1, 1995, under the Watt label, this 54-minute journey through improvisational brilliance features a unique blend of jazz and free jazz, highlighting Bley's distinctive compositional style and virtuosic performance skills.
The album opens with "Real Life Hits - Live," setting the stage for an evening of dynamic and unpredictable music. Throughout the album, Bley's ability to blend humor, complexity, and emotional depth is evident. Tracks like "The Lord Is Listenin' To Ya" and "Hallelujah! - Live" demonstrate her knack for creating spiritually uplifting and rhythmically engaging pieces. Meanwhile, "Chicken - Live" and "Misterioso - Live" showcase her playful side, with quirky melodies and unexpected twists.
"Wrong Key Donkey - Live" and "Crazy With You - Live" further exemplify Bley's talent for crafting memorable, offbeat compositions that challenge listeners and fellow musicians alike. Each track is a testament to her fearless approach to jazz, pushing boundaries and redefining what the genre can be.
"Songs With Legs" is not just a collection of live performances; it's a vivid snapshot of Carla Bley's creative genius, capturing the energy and spontaneity of her live shows. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, this album offers a thrilling exploration of jazz's limitless possibilities.
Vinylscout