Heavy Heart

Album Description

"Heavy Heart" is a captivating jazz album by Carla Bley, released in March 1984 under the Watt label, with distribution through ECM Records. Recorded in the fall of 1983 at Grog Kill Studio in New York, this album is a testament to Bley's prowess as a composer, bandleader, and keyboardist. With a runtime of just under 39 minutes, "Heavy Heart" packs a powerful punch, featuring six tracks that showcase Bley's unique blend of free jazz and traditional jazz elements.

The album opens with "Light Or Dark," setting the tone for the eclectic journey that follows. Each track, from the introspective "Talking Hearts" to the upbeat "Joyful Noise," offers a distinct mood and musical exploration. "Ending It" and "Starting Again" provide a dynamic contrast, highlighting Bley's ability to navigate complex compositions with ease. The title track, "Heavy Heart," closes the album, leaving a lasting impression with its profound and evocative melodies.

"Heavy Heart" is a stellar addition to Carla Bley's discography, showcasing her innovative approach to jazz. The album features a talented ensemble of musicians, each contributing to the rich tapestry of sounds that define this record. Whether you're a longtime fan of Carla Bley or a newcomer to her music, "Heavy Heart" offers a rewarding listening experience that highlights the depth and versatility of her artistic vision.

March 1, 1984

℗ 1984 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.