Review: Originally out on the timeless Columbia label in 1965, Miles Davis' ESP album is considered by many of his fans to be one of the man's most underrated works. Most people cite Miles Ahead, 'Round About Midnight, or Kind Of Blue as his definitive LPs, but Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab have come through utterly correct in reissuing this sublime piece of music. This was in Davis' hard-bop era, and this is clear from the opening "ESP" track itself, a fast-paced, frenetic ride across the man's own sax wizardry, and a bustling, energetic percussion roll. Other favourites on here include the pensive sway of the gorgeous "Little One", the quirky ups and downs of "Agitation", and the deep, emotive 8-minute wonder that is "Mood". Unmissable.
Review: Milestones is the full-pun-intended landmark 1958 album by the legendary jazz trumpeter Miles Davis, which marked his transition from hard bop to modal jazz. Featuring classics like 'Milestones', 'Straight, No Chaser' and 'Two Bass Hit', it was notable as one of Davis' earliest experimentations in public with modal scale patterns that was available commercially. Marking a great milestone since its original release in mono, it now comes pressed on numbered 180 gram SuperVinyl - which is a new ultra-quiet vinyl formulation which enhances the sound quality and durability of original recordings - as well as with a deluxe gatefold jacket and a booklet with rare photos and liner notes.
Review: Craft Recordings' Miles '54: The Prestige Recordings is an excellent retrospective that has Miles Davis at a transformative period in his career. Spanning 20 tracks, this collection highlights the pivotal year of 1954, where Davis honed his signature sound and emerged as a leading figure in jazz. The album features contributions from luminaries like Sonny Rollins, Thelonious Monk, and Art Blakey, who together elevate the sessions to iconic status. The set includes insightful session notes by Dan Morgenstern and a thoughtful essay by Ashley Kahn, providing historical context and depth. The collection is a journey through Davis' evolving artistry, from the melodic 'Four' to the innovative 'Bags' Groove.' Tracks like 'Walkin'' and 'Oleo' reveal a confident, boundary-pushing musician on the brink of greatness, while his use of the cup mute foreshadows the cool, introspective sound that would define much of his later work. Miles '54 is not just a celebration of a milestone year in Davis' career but also a tribute to the enduring legacy of Prestige Records.
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