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Review by JW May 28, 2003 (7 of 7 found this review helpful)
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Performance:  Sonics: |
This is the first in a series of 4 famous albums by what to some is the best Miles Davis band ever. Just check-out the line-up: Miles himself on trumpet of course, John Coltrane (tsax), Red Garland (piano), Paul Chambers (bass), Philly Joe Jones (drums). The other 3 albums are Steamin' (available on MoFi), Workin' and Relaxin'.
Apart from the opening number, which is a ballad, this disc swings. The level of playing is beyond reproach. This is the Miles Davis band playing standards in a classical, mainstream jazz setting. So for those of you getting into Miles Davis this is a 'safe' start. You won't encounter the improvisational and electronic Miles of later years on Cookin'. The tunes played here are mostly uptempo and melodic with lots of room for individual solo's by the band members.
The recording quality is outstanding. Do not let the fact that it's mono deter you from getting this disc. The detail of all instruments is clearly audible and there is sufficient space between them. There is some drop-out on 'Blues By Five' but that is part of the mastertape and only lasts a fleeting moment. As an SACD I would say this is indeed an 'essential' (for Jazz fans at least).
Jw
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