Sometimes it takes a while to catch up. Case in point: Carla Bley’s, Andy Sheppard’s and Steve Swallow’s Life Goes On. ECM released the album on Valentine’s Day. But the Rifftides staff (blame me) somehow managed to overlook what would ordinarily have been a quick and enthusiastic response to a nifty album. Swallow is all but certifiably one of the leading bassists alive, Bley has been at the apex of jazz composition and arranging for much of her life, and the British tenor saxophonist Sheppard is one of the most hamonically gifted of contemporary soloists. The album’s title blues is as comforting and reassuring as its name.
Andy Sheppard, Steve Swallow and Carla Bley together in a splendid trio album that we should have called to your attention six months ago.