Carla's Christmas Carols

With Bley on keybords, Steve Swallow on bass & the Partyka Brass Quintet. Good stuff. Not “Christmas jazzed up” but traditional and familiar tunes played with respect and style. Tight arrangements and some nicely fluid improv. You think you know where it’s going then they take a turn in an unexpected direction. Good stuff.

1. Slow and traditional then suddenly takes a modern turn.
2. Sweet chimes, then slow brass. Both delicate and innovative.
*3. Slow and sweet classic, romantic but with a bright toch.
*4. Sharp brass takes the place of the familiar bells. Elegant & rich.
*5. Formal & slow then some great improv. So cool.
6. Slow keyboards, a sense of melancholy but sophisticated.
*7. Sleepy brass, sharp hints of New Orleans. Great horns, greasy!
*8. Modern, hip and stylish mid/upbeat jam. So cool.
9. Slow and introspective with an intimate feel.
10. Suave and sophisticated Jingle Bells. Stylish.
11. Reverent carol, with a modern brush. Beautiful.
12. Slow and delicate w/applause at 1:00 to end.