Tutu

iTunes Review

This is one of four recordings that resulted from two marathon studio session in 1956, when the first classic Davis quintet put down definitive versions of the songs they were then playing on the road. Both of the two lead players were at crucial points in their development. Tenor saxophonist John Coltrane pursues his loquacious style, while trumpeter Davis is growing more terse and aphoristic, and this contrast adds an electrifying gloss to the proceedings. The music's moods dip and fly as 'Trane is aggressive, even frenetic, while Miles is restrained, understated, and always hip. Davis's sound could be paradoxically harsh and soft, and the highlight here is his truly heart-rending interpretation of the Rodgers and Hart standard "It Never Entered My Mind". We also get an early version of the Davis classic "Four"; a lyrical reading of one of Dave Brubeck's more memorable compositions, "In Your Own Sweet Way"; and the usual solid support from pianist Red Garland, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Philly Joe Jones.