Carla Bley, born Lovella May Borg on May 11, 1936, is an esteemed American jazz composer, pianist, organist and bandleader, renowned for her avant-garde approach to jazz and her prolific compositions that have added a richly-textured chapter to modern jazz. Emerging on the New York jazz scene in the 1960s, Bley became a notable figure in the free jazz movement, contributing innovative arrangements and developing an idiosyncratic compositional style that combines an eclectic range of influences, from traditional jazz to new music and everything in between.

Bley has carved out a distinctive niche in the realm of jazz with her eccentric and often humorous compositions. Her lengthy career boasts a vast discography, both as a leader and collaborator with other esteemed musicians. Her 2004 release, "The Lost Chords Find Paolo Fresu," exemplifies her affinity for creating unique sonic landscapes while maintaining the improvisational integrity of her jazz roots. Her more recent work, such as "Life Goes On" and "Andando El Tiempo," illustrates her undiminished creativity and commitment to exploring new conceptual territories, as these albums are celebrated for their thematic depth and understated elegance. A trailblazer and an enduring icon, Carla Bley's contributions to jazz stretch far beyond the conventional, making her a pivotal figure in the genre's continuous evolution.

Genres

Contemporary Post-bop

Ecm-style Jazz

Norwegian Jazz

Latest Release

Life Goes On

Carla Bley•

Andy Sheppard•

Steve Swallow

Album - 10 Tracks - Released February 14, 2020