Play Blue - Oslo Concert - Paul Bley

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of jazz with Paul Bley's "Play Blue: Oslo Concert," a live solo album that captures the master pianist in his element. Recorded at the Oslo Jazz Festival in August 2008 and released by ECM Records in March 2014, this album is a testament to Bley's extraordinary talent and his unique approach to the genre.

Spanning just over 56 minutes, the album features five outstanding tracks that showcase Bley's versatility and mastery of the piano. From the intricate "Way Down South Suite" to the evocative "Flame," each piece is a testament to Bley's ability to blend free jazz, cool jazz, and avant-garde elements seamlessly. The concert performance, held at Kulturkirken Jakob, is a thrilling display of Bley's improvisational skills and his ability to apply his own sense of order to various musical approaches.

"Play Blue: Oslo Concert" is not just a collection of songs; it's a live document of a remarkable performance by one of jazz's most innovative pianists. Bley's personal, meditative, and occasionally sombre style is on full display, making this album a standout in his discography. Whether you're a longtime fan of Paul Bley or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a captivating glimpse into the mind of a true jazz virtuoso.

March 28, 2014

℗ 2014 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Paul Bley

Paul Bley, a pioneering figure in the jazz world, was a Canadian pianist and composer whose innovative spirit and technical prowess left an indelible mark on the genre. Born in Montreal in 1932, Bley's career spanned over six decades, during which he contributed significantly to the free jazz movement of the 1960s and pushed the boundaries of trio playing. His music, characterized by its deep originality and aesthetic aggression, has been celebrated for its thoughtfulness and intuitive commitment to advanced improvisation.

Bley's extensive discography includes influential recordings from the 1950s through to his solo piano works of the 2000s. He collaborated with some of the most influential musicians of his time, including Charlie Parker, Ornette Coleman, Sonny Rollins, and Pat Metheny. Beyond his work on the piano, Bley was also an early adopter of synthesizers, notably the Moog and ARP, incorporating them into his live performances and recordings.

His compositions often featured a blend of nostalgia and reflection, with a gentle hint of the blues, creating a compelling and deeply personal musical experience. Bley's legacy as one of the most influential jazz pianists and composers of the 20th century is undeniable, making him a founding father of avant-garde jazz.