Friday, July 11, 2014

Charlie Haden

One of the great bassists in jazz history -- via the Ottawa Citizen. His deft touch, superb musicianship, and ability to lead, follow and meld with his fellow players makes him an exemplary figure in music history for me.  He made his name with Ornette Coleman, led the Liberation Music Orchestra, numerous ensembles, and nearly countless collaborations with the best musicians on the planet. Among my favorite recordings of his: "Haunted Heart," "Beyond the Missouri Sky," "Come Sunday," "Steal Away," "The Shape of Jazz to Come," "Farewell to Philosophy," "Pop Pop," "Sarabande," "Living Legend," "Jasmine" . . . and many more. From Yoko Ono to Gavin Bryars, he could play any- and everything, his talent and dedication expanding his musical circle ever wider. Can't really express how much I will always love him.