Introduction
The 1955 album "Miles Davis and Milt Jackson Quintet/Sextet" is a significant partnership in between 2 jazz legends-- trumpeter Miles Davis and vibraphonist Milt Jackson. Launched by Prestige Records, the album includes five tracks that perfectly mix Davis' cool jazz noise with Jackson's blues-influenced approach. The result is an album that showcases the adaptability and ability of both musicians while also providing a snapshot of an intriguing duration in jazz history.
Personnel and Recording
"Miles Davis and Milt Jackson Quintet/Sextet" includes an all-star lineup that consists of Davis on trumpet, Jackson on vibes, Jackie McLean on alto saxophone, Ray Bryant on piano, Percy Heath on bass, and Art Taylor on drums. The album was tape-recorded on August 5, 1955, during a single session at Rudy Van Gelder's famous studio in Hackensack, New Jersey.
Rudy Van Gelder, who was accountable for numerous timeless jazz recordings during his career, crafted the session. The quintet format is included on the very first three tracks, while the sextet lineup, consisting of McLean on alto saxophone, is heard on the final two tracks.
Track Listing and Composition
The album consists of 5 tracks in total, which show the effective improvisational skills of the artists included. The track listing is as follows:
1. "Dr. Jackle" (Miles Davis).
2. "Sid's Ahead" (Miles Davis).
3. "Two Bass Hit" (Dizzy Gillespie, John Lewis).
4. "Milestones" (Miles Davis).
5. "Billy Boy" (Traditional, arr. by Ahmad Jamal).
"Dr. Jackle" starts the album with a strong statement, including a transmittable tune and showcasing the close interplay between Davis, Jackson, and McLean. The 2nd track, "Sid's Ahead", is a blues-based structure with an excellent solo area that highlights each musician's talents in turn.
"Two Bass Hit", a Dizzy Gillespie and John Lewis composition originally tape-recorded by Gillespie's big band in 1947, is an up-tempo tune that works as a dynamic showcase for the quintet. "Milestones", not to be confused with Davis' later composition of the same name, is a swinging tune that includes some particularly impressive work by Davis on trumpet and Jackson on vibes. Lastly, the album closes with a lovely rendition of the traditional tune "Billy Boy", arranged by pianist Ahmad Jamal, which enables each musician to express their individuality while also collaborating as a cohesive whole.
Tradition and Influence
As a collaboration between 2 jazz giants, "Miles Davis and Milt Jackson Quintet/Sextet" holds an important location in the history of jazz. The album represents a conference of two unique musical worlds-- Davis' cool and cerebral approach, identified by his harmonic subtlety and fragile lyricism, and Jackson's blues-tinged, soulful playing on the vibraphone.
The combination of these two styles resulted in an unique musical blend that has continued to affect subsequent generations of jazz musicians. The album also demonstrated the potential for the vibraphone to be utilized as a leading instrument in jazz, paving the way for future vibraphonists such as Bobby Hutcherson and Gary Burton.
In summary, "Miles Davis and Milt Jackson Quintet/Sextet" is a must-listen for fans of both Davis and Jackson, as well as those looking for a glimpse into the development of jazz in the 1950s. With its outstanding lineup, superb musicianship, and fascinating efficiencies, the album stands as a testimony to the enduring power and importance of the genre.
Artist: Miles Davis
Miles Davis, born May 26, 1926, in Alton, Illinois. Explore his innovative music, collaborations, and iconic quotes.
More about Miles Davis