Paul Bley

Paul Bley (1932–2016) was a Canadian jazz pianist noted for his influential solo piano work, contributions to free and avant-garde jazz, and collaborations with Annette Peacock and Carla Bley.

Born November 10, 1932; died January 3, 2016. Prolific recording career (reviews note "over 120 albums in about sixty years"). Known for landmark solo albums such as Open, to Love (ECM, 1972) and later solo recordings including Solo in Mondsee. Collaborated extensively with Annette Peacock; earlier career included work with leading jazz figures and performances on electronic keyboards (Moog, Fender Rhodes) as documented in reviews of Improvisie and other releases. Mondsee was recorded on a Bosendorfer Imperial (noted in reviews).

User reviews celebrate Paul Bley as a pioneer of solo piano and free jazz, praising albums like Open, to Love, Solo in Mondsee and Improvisie. Reviewers highlight his spare, lyrical touch, electronic experiments (Moog, Fender Rhodes) and long, prolific recording career (noted as over 120 albums). The collection of reviews on DeBaser is affectionate and recommends listening closely and patiently to his improvisations.

For:Listeners of solo piano, fans of free/avant-garde jazz, and readers seeking deep, lyrical improvisation.