Escalator Over The Hill - A Chronotransduction By Carla Bley And Paul Haines - Carla Bley

Album Description

"Escalator Over The Hill - A Chronotransduction By Carla Bley And Paul Haines" is a monumental work in the realm of jazz, released in January 1971 under ECM Records. This ambitious project is a collaborative effort between the renowned jazz composer Carla Bley and poet Paul Haines, who began their collaboration in 1967 and saw it come to fruition four years later. The album is a sprawling, experimental jazz-rock opera that defies easy categorization, blending elements of cabaret, country twang, and minimalist avant-garde jazz into a cohesive and captivating whole.

Spanning a generous two hours across 27 tracks, this triple LP is a testament to Bley's innovative spirit and Haines' lyrical prowess. The album features a diverse array of musical styles and moods, from the whimsical and playful to the introspective and profound. It showcases Bley's mastery of composition and arrangement, as well as her ability to push the boundaries of traditional jazz.

The album's unique structure and eclectic influences make it a standout work in Bley's discography and a seminal release in the world of jazz. "Escalator Over The Hill" is not just an album; it's an experience that demands repeated listening and close attention to its intricate details. Fans of experimental jazz, avant-garde music, and innovative composition will find much to appreciate in this landmark release.

1 januari 1971

℗ 1971 JCOA Records, 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.