Back catalogue: Jazz

Review: Miles Davis' The Bootleg Series, Volume 1: Live in Europe 1967 is a monumental release, capturing the essence of one of jazz's most legendary ensembles. This 5xLP box set from Columbia/Legacy, featuring 180-gram audiophile vinyl, showcases previously unreleased live performances by Davis' second great quintetiWayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams. The set documents five concerts from October and November 1967, a transitional period in Davis' career. While this quintet never achieved the pop-cultural impact of Davis' earlier or later groups, their work during this era remains highly influential. The recordings reveal a band pushing the boundaries of bebop with exhilarating spontaneity and creativity. Tony Williams' dynamic drumming is particularly noteworthy, adding intense energy to tracks like 'Footprints,' while Hancock's innovative piano work and Shorter's probing saxophone contribute to the band's distinctive sound. Live in Europe 1967 represents a crucial moment before the group's shift to electric jazz, epitomising the quintet's mastery of live improvisation and interaction.

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.