"The Lost Chords Find Paolo Fresu" is a captivating jazz album by Carla Bley, released in 2007 under the Watt/ECM label. This record is a testament to Bley's unique compositional style and her ability to blend free jazz with more traditional jazz elements, creating a sound that is both innovative and accessible. The album features Bley on piano, accompanied by Andy Sheppard on saxophone, Steve Swallow on bass, Billy Drummond on drums, and special guest Paolo Fresu on trumpet. Recorded in Europe, the album showcases the musical synergy between these accomplished musicians, with each track offering a blend of improvisation and structured composition.
The album's standout feature is "The Banana Quintet," a six-part suite that highlights the collaborative spirit of the group. The suite, along with other tracks like "Death Of Superman / Dream Sequence#1 - Flying" and "Ad Infinitum," demonstrates Bley's knack for blending humor, blues, and jazz into a cohesive and engaging musical experience. The album's duration of 55 minutes allows for a deep dive into Bley's musical world, making it a rewarding listen for jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike. "The Lost Chords Find Paolo Fresu" is a joyful exploration of jazz, showcasing Carla Bley's distinctive voice and her collaborators' exceptional musicianship.