Are We There Yet? cover

Are We There Yet?

Carla Bley · 1999

47 min · 7 tracks · jazz

An intricate tapestry of jazz harmonies and experimental textures, blending improvisation with composed sections seamlessly.

Top tracks — play these first

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    A Dog’s Life — This track stands out for its playful yet complex arrangement, capturing the essence of Bley's ability to blend whimsy with intricate musical dialogue.
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    Satie for Two — A tribute to Erik Satie, this piece elegantly intertwines classical influences with jazz improvisation, highlighting Bley's versatility and depth as a composer.
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    Musique Mecanique (Part I / Part II (At Midnight) / Part III) — Spanning over thirteen minutes, this ambitious suite exemplifies Bley's innovative orchestration and willingness to explore extended forms in her compositions.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intricate improvisation with depth
  • thoughtful moments for reflection
  • dynamic shifts in pacing
  • late-night contemplative listening

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking straightforward melodies
  • prefer fast-paced experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
When 'Are We There Yet?' was released in 1999, Carla Bley had already established herself as a significant figure in jazz for over three decades. This album followed her acclaimed work 'The Lost Chords,' showcasing her continued evolution as a composer and bandleader while solidifying her unique voice within the genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Paul Bley· Sun Ra· Charles Mingus

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Major 3:36
  • 2 A Dog’s Life 7:15
  • 3 Satie for Two 8:42
  • 4 Lost in the Stars 5:16
  • 5 King Korn 4:38
  • 6 Playing With Water 4:42
  • 7 Musique Mecanique (Part I / Part II (At Midnight) / Part III) 13:24

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata