Customer Reviews

Carla Bley - Live in Montreal (Montreal Jazz Festival)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I was so very happy to find this great video of the wonderful ensemble work of this particular configuation playing the multi-layered, humorous, passionate writing of Carla Bley. Gary Valente's opening solo is an absolute must listen for every trombonist on the planet. Watching Carla play really helps one understand more fully the intensity of her minimalist, edgy lines. This is a boatload of rich harmonies, texture and form.
what a hit seeing the younger Joe Levano and Michael Mantler! Everyone in this band is a monster.

This is an excellent performance. I happened on one of her albums in the library many years ago and I really liked it. (It was the same group, same period, and many of the pieces were the same too.) The trombone is especially dope. Slagel on alto burns. Lovano, although underutilized, is a treat. Well, actually, the whole group really shines.

If this DVD had better video and better sound, I would have given it 5 stars. Unfortunately, at the time of this Montreal concert (1983), CDs had just come out and DVDs were about 15 years away. So the video is unexceptional and the sound is about the same as a good LP. Channel separation is barely discernible and there is a level of aural clarity missing.

But the music is first rate for Bley fans. Ever-quirky and enigmatic, this bandleader never really reveals her face; instead she guides a 5-star ensemble, which includes French horn and tuba, through a very advanced big-band repertoire; not easily appreciated on the first listening and certainly the antithesis of swing.

If you're a Bley fan, buy it. If you're expecting to be able to dance, forget it.