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.