Texas 1978

Album Description

Carla Bley's "Texas 1978" is a captivating live album that captures the essence of her groundbreaking performance at the Armadillo World Headquarters in Austin, Texas, on March 27th, 1978. This release, set to drop on February 7th, 2025, under the Off Beat label, is a treasure trove for jazz enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into Bley's avant-garde jazz journey during her first North American tour.

The album spans six tracks, each a testament to Bley's innovative spirit and mastery of free jazz. From the intriguing "Radio Introductions - Live" to the enigmatic "Encore (Unknown Title) - Live," the tracks are a blend of improvisational brilliance and compositional depth. Highlights include "440 - Live," a piece that showcases Bley's ability to blend experimental sounds with traditional jazz structures, and "Isle of Pene - Live," a track that highlights her unique compositional style.

With a duration of 58 minutes, "Texas 1978" is a concise yet powerful representation of Carla Bley's artistic vision. The album is available in CD format, making it a valuable addition to any jazz collection. Whether you're a long-time fan of Carla Bley or a newcomer to her work, this live album offers an authentic and engaging experience of her pioneering contributions to the world of jazz.

February 7, 2025

2025 Off Beat

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.