Big Band Theory

Album Description

"Big Band Theory," released on October 1, 1993, is a captivating big band album by the renowned composer, bandleader, and keyboardist Carla Bley. This album showcases Bley's unique compositional prowess and her ability to lead a large ensemble with precision and creativity. Recorded in London with an 18-piece orchestra, predominantly featuring British musicians, the album stands out for its moody and atmospheric compositions.

The album features three original tracks by Carla Bley, along with a standout cover of Charles Mingus' "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat." The lineup includes notable jazz stars such as Andy Sheppard on tenor and soprano saxophone, Gary Valente on trombone, Lew Soloff on trumpet, and Wolfgang Puschnig on alto saxophone. The album also includes a special appearance by violinist Alex Balanescu, adding a unique texture to the ensemble's sound. The album's production, handled by Carla Bley and Steve Swallow, ensures a cohesive and polished listening experience.

"Big Band Theory" is a testament to Carla Bley's innovative approach to big band music, blending progressive elements with traditional jazz structures. The album's three tracks—"On The Stage In Cages," "Birds Of Paradise," and "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat"—each offer a distinct musical journey, showcasing the band's versatility and Bley's compositional depth. With a duration of 49 minutes, this album is a compelling addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection, highlighting Carla Bley's enduring influence in the genre.

1 oktober 1993

℗ 1993 WATT Works Inc./ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Carla Bley

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.