KIND OF BLUE

ORIGINAL RECORDING: 1959

THE PLAYERS: Miles Davis(trumpet)

                        Julian”Cannonball” Adderley(alto saxophone)

                        John Coltrane(tenor saxophone)

                        Wynton Kelly(piano)

                        Bill Evans(piano)

                        Paul Chambers(bass)

                        Jimmy Cobb(drums)

It is the MOST played CD in my collection and I shall not dwell on other facts of the album as there is an overload of information about this masterpiece virtually everywhere. The question is why is it the most played CD in my collection considering that I own a wide range of CDs of various genres?. I have no idea. The reason might be as complex and intriguing as the genius himself, Miles Davis.

The tunes are catchy and very relaxing. The first time I listened to the album, I was intrigued by the melodic content. I guess that’s what defines modal jazz. Musicians are able to understand and explain the concept better. During many listening sessions with a close friend of mine, we found it rather hilarious trying to figure out the tune.

Kind of Blue is the most celebrated album in the history of jazz to the extent that it has been included in the National Recording Registry. There are numerous releases post 1959 including my copy (1997 Sony Music Entertainment Inc.). This particular reissue has an alternate take on Flamenco Sketches.     

Bill Evans wrote “ …..These artists must practice a particular discipline, that of allowing the idea to express itself in communication with their hands in such a direct way that deliberation cannot interfere. The resulting pictures lack the complex composition and textures of ordinary painting, but it is said that those who see will find something captured that escapes explanation….”

Bill couldn’t have said it better and til this day, I am still looking for an answer.



THE FRENCH OPEN 2012(PRE-TOURNAMENT PERDICTION)

The French Open or Roland Garros is one of the four Grand Slam tournaments held in Paris, usually in late May after the Australian Open.  It is the only Grand Slam held on clay, a slow playing surface which is physically demanding.

Rafael Nadal, fondly known as Rafa has won this prestigious event six times (2005-08, 2010-11) matching the great Bjorn Borg. In the last Fench Open, he defeated Roger Federer in 4 sets(7-5,7-6,5-7,6-1). Rafa is known for his relentless heavy top spin and athleticism. It is obvious that his style of play is suited to the clay court surface.

World number one, Novak Djokovic  has won five Grand Slam titles defeating Rafa in the last Australian Open final; in five hours fifty-three minutes, the longest final in Australian Open history . However, the French Open seems to be elusive for the Serb. Novak managed to reach the semi-finals in 2011 against Roger Federer. He succumbed to the Swiss legend’s graceful and powerful strokes in four sets (7-6,6-3,3-6,7-6). He has played in the semi-finals three times at Roland Garros (2007,2008 and 2011). Novak has proven that he has the energy, physical and mental ability to defeat Rafa.

There are many contenders out there not to be underestimated especially Roger Federer and Andy Murray who has an ex-French Open champ(3 times), Ivan Lendl as his coach. But my prediction in the final would have to be Rafa versus Novak.  The champion?. I am going with Rafa based on his track record and several other factors.