Carla Bley - Life Goes On (LP)

Carla Bley, a pioneer in the world of free jazz, presents her latest sonic exploration, "Life Goes On," released on February 14, 2020, under the prestigious ECM Records label. This 56-minute journey through the realms of free jazz and jazz is a testament to Bley's innovative spirit and her ability to push the boundaries of the genre.

The album is a collection of eight tracks, divided into two main suites. The first, "Life Goes On," is a four-part exploration of the eponymous theme, taking the audience through a journey of life's ups and downs, as suggested by the titles: "Life Goes On," "Life Goes On: On," "Life Goes On: And On," and culminating with "Life Goes On: And Then One Day." The second suite, "Beautiful Telephones," is a three-part composition that delves into the intricate and often humorous world of communication and imitation, with tracks titled "Beautiful Telephones - Pt. 1," "Beautiful Telephones - Pt. 2," and "Beautiful Telephones - Pt. 3." The album concludes with the three-part "Copycat" suite, which further explores the theme of imitation and followership.

Bley's compositional prowess is evident in the intricate structures and unexpected twists that characterize each track. Her ability to blend free jazz's spontaneity with jazz's structured elegance makes "Life Goes On" a captivating listen from start to finish. The album is a testament to Bley's enduring influence and her commitment to innovation, making it a significant addition to any jazz enthusiast's collection.