Saturday, July 12, 2014

Charlie Haden: A Ballad for the Fallen

Famed jazz bassist Charlie Haden (August 6, 1937-July 11 2014) has passed away. 

Haden first came to prominence in the classic Ornette Coleman Quartets of the early 1960's, in which chords, traditional structures and the distinction between fore and background players was set aside in favor of more communal, direct dialogues.  
In the 1970's Haden turned his attention to works with a more overt political frame of reference. Working with arranger Carla Bley, he adapted music from the Spanish Civil War, and focused his own music largely on political unrest in Latin and Central America, creating some of the most innovative and exciting big band performances of the decade.
Also beginning in the 1970's and continuing for many years, he worked in duo and trio formats with pianist Keith Jarrett and guitarist, Pat Metheny. 
His later works included looks back at earlier music to which he continued to bring his innovative touch. 
Charlie Haden's music was always infused with passion, integrity and a desire to communicate with his fellow musicians and audience. He received many accolades and honors throughout his career and deserved them all. 
Presented below, in tribute to this great musician, are several of his works, including the masterful Ballad of the Fallen.

Ballad of the Fallen

Introduction to The People United Shall Not Be Defeated

Cinema Paradiso with Pat Metheny
Sandino
Anthem of the African National Congress
Nocturne - Tres Palabras

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