"Mundoagua: Celebrating Carla Bley" is an upcoming album by the renowned Arturo O'Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra, set to release on February 7, 2025, under the ZOHO label. This captivating collection of ten tracks is a heartfelt tribute to the late, great Carla Bley, a pioneering figure in jazz and experimental music. The album blends the rich traditions of Latin jazz and son jarocho with O'Farrill's distinctive jazz sensibilities, creating a unique and engaging soundscape.
The album's title, "Mundoagua," translates to "water world," and the tracks explore themes of global consequences and human connection. The suite of three "Mundoagua" tracks delves into the politics and beauty of water, while the four-part "Blue Palestine" series offers a poignant reflection on a region steeped in history and conflict. The album concludes with a trio of pieces inspired by Día De Los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, celebrating the cycle of life and death with a vibrant Latin rhythm.
With a runtime of just over an hour, "Mundoagua: Celebrating Carla Bley" promises to be a memorable journey through the creative mind of Arturo O'Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra. The album is a testament to the power of music to honor the past while exploring the present, and it is sure to captivate both longtime fans and new listeners alike.