Go Together

Album Description

"Go Together" is a captivating album of duets by the renowned American composer, bandleader, and keyboardist Carla Bley, alongside the esteemed bassist Steve Swallow. Released in April 1993 under the Watt label, this 52-minute journey into the realms of free jazz and chamber jazz is a testament to the artistic synergy between two masterful musicians.

The album features eight unique tracks, each offering a distinct blend of improvisation and composition. From the evocative "Sing Me Softly Of The Blues" to the intricate "Masquerade In 3 Parts," every piece showcases Carla Bley's signature style and her collaborative prowess with Swallow. The duo's chemistry is palpable, with each track revealing a deep understanding and mutual respect for each other's musical sensibilities.

"Go Together" is not just an album; it's an exploration of sound and silence, a dialogue between two virtuosos who push the boundaries of jazz. The tracks range from introspective and delicate, like "Peau Douce," to more dynamic and energetic, such as "Ad Infinitum." This diversity makes "Go Together" a rich and rewarding listen, offering something new with each playthrough.

For fans of jazz, and particularly free jazz, this album is a treasure trove of innovative compositions and performances. Carla Bley's unique approach to the keyboard, combined with Steve Swallow's masterful bass playing, creates a sound that is both familiar and fresh, making "Go Together" a standout release in the genre.

April 1, 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.