0
0
It’s tough to go wrong with Miles Davis and Live at the 1963 Monterey Jazz Festival is no exception. This deliciously smooth listen has generous play time for an album with only six tracks.
It opens up with “Waiting for Miles,” which is simply a brief, captivating drum solo by Tony Williams. “Autumn Leaves,” features a bold and dynamic opening that moves into a long, sweet, smoky jam, rich with gorgeous piano stylings by Herbie Hancock and a mind-blowing bass solo by Ron Carter. “So What” is remarkably smooth with some nice sparring between Hancock on piano and Williams on drums. “Walking” has plenty of explosive trumpet riffs rendered with such graceful fluidity that it makes you wonder when the man has time to take a breath. “Stella by Starlight” is soft, romantic and passionately rendered with a beautiful mix of sound. When Hancock’s smooth piano stylings aren’t perfectly complementing Davis’ bold staccato, the trumpet melts into a rich, gorgeous melody backed by Hancock wailing on the keys. Williams definitely gets his chance to shine with a sweet drum solo on “Walkin’.” “The Theme” closes the show with plenty of swing that will just leave you wanting more.
This delightful listen will definitely add a healthy dash of spice to any jazz lover’s collection.
