#25 Kind of BlueMiles Davis

Genres: Modal jazz

Description

"Kind of Blue" by Miles Davis addresses the shift from bebop's complexity to the expansive freedom of modal jazz. Released in 1959, this landmark album blends Davis's innovative vision with the ensemble's masterful execution, creating a timeless piece that redefined jazz. Each track is a modal sketch that invites improvisation, reflecting Davis's aspiration for melodic creativity unbound by chords.

Background

By late 1958, trumpeter Miles Davis led a prestigious hard bop band with notable members including bassist Paul Chambers, alto saxophonist Julian "Cannonball" Adderley, and tenor saxophonist John Coltrane. Drummer Jimmy Cobb and pianist Wynton Kelly completed the lineup, though Bill Evans was brought back for the project due to his knowledge of modal jazz. Dissatisfied with bebop, Davis was inspired by George Russell's Lydian Chromatic Concept, leading him to explore new musical territories.

Notable Tracks

• "So What": Opens with a call-and-response structure that utilizes only two modes, creating a spacious framework for improvisation.
• "Freddie Freeloader": A standard twelve-bar blues featuring Wynton Kelly's soulful piano introduction.
• "Blue in Green": A ten-measure cycle piece known for its emotive and haunting melody, co-credited to Bill Evans.
• "All Blues": A twelve-bar blues in 6/8 time, creating a waltz-like feel that is both relaxed and intricate.
• "Flamenco Sketches": Consists of five modes played in sequence as the soloist desires, promoting infinite melodic possibilities.

Reception and Impact

"Kind of Blue" was noted for its profound innovation in jazz, offering a new approach centered around scales and modes rather than chord changes. It achieved commercial success, reaching the upper ranks of the Billboard chart and garnering widespread acclaim. The contributions of musicians like John Coltrane and Bill Evans were pivotal, enriching Davis's vision with their distinct styles. The album has since earned numerous accolades, including a top position in various "greatest albums" lists.

Legacy

"Kind of Blue" remains a pivotal album in Miles Davis's discography, embodying the endless melodic potential that modal jazz provides. Its influence extends beyond jazz into numerous genres, and it continues to be celebrated for its groundbreaking approach and enduring artistic brilliance.