MILES DAVIS
Birth Of The Cool (Blue Note)
Reviewed by John Sekerka

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The importance of this album, originally recorded in '49 and '50 is indisputable. Since it directed the West coast cool movement (Chet Baker) and influenced the evolution of soft jazz (Kenny G), there is reason both to celebrate and dispise the record. Whatever the consequences, Birth of Cool remains an important landmark in jazz, a coming out party for Miles Davis and a reference point to this day. The inclusion of tubas and trombones in a nonette was indeed revolutionary, as was the flawless playing. Funny thing is that for the countless re-releases it has enjoyed, the master tapes were used only once (for the original vinyl LP). Until now that is. Die hard audio afficionados will revel at hearing the clarity presented here, espacially since their ancient vinyl copies must be all but shreaded by now.

© 2001 - John Sekerka