Jazz Landmark Album #1 - Miles Davis: Kind Of Blue (Columbia)

Columbia

Miles Davis (t), John Coltrane (ts), Cannonball Adderley (as), Wynton Kelly (p), Bill Evans (p), Paul Chambers (b) and Jimmy Cobb (d). Rec. 1959

"Kind of Blue" - A Timeless Odyssey Through Jazz Fusion

In the intricate tapestry of contemporary jazz fusion, one album stands as an enigmatic masterpiece: "Kind of Blue." Miles Davis (trumpet), John Coltrane (tenor saxophone), Cannonball Adderley (alto saxophone), Wynton Kelly (piano), Bill Evans (piano), Paul Chambers (bass), and Jimmy Cobb (drums) came together in 1959 to craft this iconic work.

Unearthly Impact

Measuring impact isn't always about thunderous applause or smoldering craters. "Kind of Blue" arrived subtly in 1959, devoid of fanfare, yet it etched its legacy over four decades. As the millennium drew to a close, it graced the zenith of countless "best of" lists, eclipsing many rock, pop, and hip-hop classics. Today, it's a symbol of coolness in Hollywood soundtracks, a consistent seller moving 5,000 copies weekly worldwide, and a staple in at least five million CD collections, transcending the confines of jazz enthusiasts.

The Sum of Unassuming Parts

"Kind of Blue" transcends a mere sum of its parts. Five elegantly simple compositions, profound in evocative depth, were entrusted to seven post-bop virtuosos in their prime. This all-star ensemble transcends the term "all-star": Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Cannonball Adderley, Bill Evans, Wynton Kelly, Paul Chambers, and Jimmy Cobb.

A Musical Revolution

Its true magnitude lies in its musical influence. Esteemed music creators like Quincy Jones and Herbie Hancock testify to its impact. In an era when music had become dense, "Kind of Blue" distilled modern jazz into a serene essence. Embracing a "modal" approach in the 1950s jazz landscape aimed to break free from conventional harmonic patterns, paving the way for boundless improvisation. Miles Davis ingeniously amalgamated seemingly contradictory elements: 20th-century classical concepts, exotic scales, and African rhythms, all within a laid-back, swinging groove. Upon its release, "Kind of Blue" became the improviser's bible. John Coltrane, one of its creators, followed its lead, guiding jazz into the 1960s after imbibing modal lessons from Miles. By his side, pianist McCoy Tyner adopted Bill Evans' quartal harmony innovation, as heard in 'So What,' leaving an indelible mark. As the '60s drew to a close, the modal concept became the bedrock of fusion jazz, shaping not only jazz but also rock groups like the Allman Brothers, Grateful Dead, and Santana. These bands adopted the electric guitar as their preferred solo instrument, influencing generations of jam-oriented musicians.

A Sonic Resonance

The implications of "Kind of Blue" ripple through the annals of music. It reverberates across genres, with echoes even seeping into rock 'n' roll. "I hear it everywhere," says Herbie Hancock, highlighting its pervasive influence.

A Constant Rethinking

Exploring a niche as narrow as one jazz album, like "Kind of Blue," invites perpetual contemplation. The reasons behind its enduring chart dominance defy a single explanation. Assessing the rank of a musical masterpiece is an ongoing endeavor, as musical value and appreciation are intrinsically subjective.

Jazz's Porous Democracy

Traditional top-10 lists appear inadequate and uninspiring in the world of jazz, the most porous and democratic of musical realms. Jazz embraces diverse influences, granting all styles equal value.

A World of Creative Possibilities

The journey of "Kind of Blue" mirrors personal epiphanies. It can transform perceptions and open doors to a vast ocean of musical possibilities. It serves as a portal, unmooring individuals from preconceptions and inviting them to explore the boundless world of creative music.

With weekly sales figures of 5,000 copies, "Kind of Blue" signifies much more than numbers. It stands as a testament to its power to unshackle listeners and offer an entire realm of musical exploration. In the world of impact, few landmarks can match the significance of guiding souls beyond the familiar shores into the expanse of artistic discovery. "Kind of Blue" perpetually earns its rightful place at the forefront.