This is the one jazz record owned by people who don't listen to jazz, and with good reason. The band itself is extraordinary (proof of Miles Davis's masterful casting skills, if not of God's existence), listing John Coltrane and Julian "Cannonball" Adderley on saxophones, Bill Evans (or, on "Freddie Freeloader", Wynton Kelly) on piano, and the crack rhythm unit of Paul Chambers on bass and Jimmy Cobb on drums. Coltrane's astringency on tenor is counterpoised to Adderley's funky self on alto, with Davis moderating between them as Bill Evans conjures up a still lake of sound on which they walk. Meanwhile, the rhythm partnership of Cobb and Chambers is prepared to click off time until eternity. It was the key recording of what became modal jazz, a music free of the fixed harmonies and forms of pop songs. In Davis's men's hands it was a weightless music, but one that refused to fade into the background. In retrospect every note seems perfect, and each piece moves inexorably towards its destiny. --John Szwed

Estate Agents and other coffee-tablists: This is not the be-all and end-all of jazz!, 21 Nov 2008
It has already been said here that this album is usually found in non-jazz fans' collections alongside Bob Marley's greatest hits and most probably David Gray's entire ouvre. Perhaps it stands sentry there unplayed, just so its spine can be read, head tilted sideways, begging to impress upon whoever it is browsing through their collection some ill-gotten measure of sophistication? Perhaps they did play it once then decided no, they were right about jazz all along?

Modal, understated, and (aaargh!) cool, or tedious, cicuitous and under-cooked? Amongst aficionados, the most fiercely debated issue with the session is whether you are appreciating it at the correct pitch (an issue with the tape playback speed when it was mastered). That sums up the excitement levels for you. Hardly a dynamic recording to bolster enthusiasm for a novice jazz listener.

Personally, I feel sad for Bobby Timmons. Who? The pianist in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers who wrote 'Moanin'' the year previous to this release. If he had had the temerity to just repeat the head to that tune up a semitone and then back down again as Miles practically does here (on 'So What'), it would be that album redundantly nestling in millions of style magazine-reading cretins' cd collections rather than this (somehow I picture Robert Elms owning 2 dozen copies). I find modal jazz to be a device that is prone to being abused as a way to stretch out lame ideas for twice as long as they need to be, and Miles was always fond of waiting until the cab ride to the studio to write the material. Just saying.

Just so this is not completely written off as a Davis-hating rant, here are my pointers for a few other jazz albums (from the exact same time frame as this: 1958-9) for the uninitiated to peruse rather than this stultifyingly obvious choice. Beware neophytes; no one musical genre can be defined by (and thus written off by) one album and I really do want to encourage more people to listen to jazz. These just strike me as being as accessible as Kind Of Blue.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin'
Horace Silver - Blowin' The Blues Away
Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin'
Lou Donaldson - Gravy Train
Gil Evans - The Complete Pacific Jazz Sessions
Bennie Green - Soul Stirrin'

My noted Blue Note bias is definitely a factor in this list. But from my own experience, being compelled to study this album as a rock-loving music student, I was put off jazz for several years by its meandering pace and lack of excitement. It took me another 5 years to discover there was more to jazz than Miles.

Before he went funny, 07 Nov 2008
I can understand why fans of Davis' jazz fusion, jazz rock and electric stuff may find this bland since it was recorded before he decided to explore that newer territory (which I find weird and disappointing). It represents just one part of his journey from the Rhumboogie Orchestra in 1944, via bop and Gill Evans, to the synthesizer-enhanced(?) din he was making towards the end of his career. Only a few days after this session was recorded Coltrane cut "Giant Steps", which is a fair indication of the direction he was a taking.

However, for me and thousands of others this is a beautiful record, with all the musicians performing at their (then) peak. Even Coltrane makes a beautiful sound and they all swing mightily when that is appropriate to the mood of the number. Yes, it is cool (although there is warmth, too) but that was what the mood required. Incidentally, in his autobiography, Davis denies that Bill Evans composed (or co-composed) any of the pieces in "Kind of Blue" although he admits Evans' influence on his approach to the work.

Whether it is "the best jazz record ever" I am not qualified to judge although it is surely among the best. But how do you compare it with King Oliver, Bechet's "Out of the Galleon" or with Bird at his best?
Such comparisons are pointless as well as impossible. Just enjoy it for what it is.


Modal Jazz begginings, 29 Sep 2008
Miles Davis and his band ( and what a band ) explore modes in this record beggining a new era in jazz improvisation previously based in chord changes.
That was quite a big step .First , it gave greater freedom.Second, you must knew what to do with the freedom to avoid a musical disaster.
The truth is that this is one of this exceptional albums that you can listen to 1000 times and discover new layers and rewarding musical moments.
I mean , if you want to understand Jazz after 1950 buy this and if you want to listen to exceptional music buy it too.

The Master, 12 Sep 2008
Don't waste your time reading anymore reviews -just buy the album. Better jazz than this is hard to imagine! Put it on, listen and relax.

this is a superb jazz album classic!!, 28 Aug 2008
im open to all music mainly eccept rap hip hop dance not my kind of thing each to there own!! but this is a classic jazz album its fab im not a massive jazz lover but love some jazz charles mingus,countbasie,frank sinatra,nat king cole,ray charles,duke ellington i like jazz thats simple not too all over the place eg john coultrane a love supreme its good in parts but goes off in places its awfull in parts i like this album more simple buy it!! classic!!

Estate Agents and other coffee-tablists: This is not the be-all and end-all of jazz!, 21 Nov 2008
It has already been said here that this album is usually found in non-jazz fans' collections alongside Bob Marley's greatest hits and most probably David Gray's entire ouvre. Perhaps it stands sentry there unplayed, just so its spine can be read, head tilted sideways, begging to impress upon whoever it is browsing through their collection some ill-gotten measure of sophistication? Perhaps they did play it once then decided no, they were right about jazz all along?

Modal, understated, and (aaargh!) cool, or tedious, cicuitous and under-cooked? Amongst aficionados, the most fiercely debated issue with the session is whether you are appreciating it at the correct pitch (an issue with the tape playback speed when it was mastered). That sums up the excitement levels for you. Hardly a dynamic recording to bolster enthusiasm for a novice jazz listener.

Personally, I feel sad for Bobby Timmons. Who? The pianist in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers who wrote 'Moanin'' the year previous to this release. If he had had the temerity to just repeat the head to that tune up a semitone and then back down again as Miles practically does here (on 'So What'), it would be that album redundantly nestling in millions of style magazine-reading cretins' cd collections rather than this (somehow I picture Robert Elms owning 2 dozen copies). I find modal jazz to be a device that is prone to being abused as a way to stretch out lame ideas for twice as long as they need to be, and Miles was always fond of waiting until the cab ride to the studio to write the material. Just saying.

Just so this is not completely written off as a Davis-hating rant, here are my pointers for a few other jazz albums (from the exact same time frame as this: 1958-9) for the uninitiated to peruse rather than this stultifyingly obvious choice. Beware neophytes; no one musical genre can be defined by (and thus written off by) one album and I really do want to encourage more people to listen to jazz. These just strike me as being as accessible as Kind Of Blue.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin'
Horace Silver - Blowin' The Blues Away
Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin'
Lou Donaldson - Gravy Train
Gil Evans - The Complete Pacific Jazz Sessions
Bennie Green - Soul Stirrin'

My noted Blue Note bias is definitely a factor in this list. But from my own experience, being compelled to study this album as a rock-loving music student, I was put off jazz for several years by its meandering pace and lack of excitement. It took me another 5 years to discover there was more to jazz than Miles.

Before he went funny, 07 Nov 2008
I can understand why fans of Davis' jazz fusion, jazz rock and electric stuff may find this bland since it was recorded before he decided to explore that newer territory (which I find weird and disappointing). It represents just one part of his journey from the Rhumboogie Orchestra in 1944, via bop and Gill Evans, to the synthesizer-enhanced(?) din he was making towards the end of his career. Only a few days after this session was recorded Coltrane cut "Giant Steps", which is a fair indication of the direction he was a taking.

However, for me and thousands of others this is a beautiful record, with all the musicians performing at their (then) peak. Even Coltrane makes a beautiful sound and they all swing mightily when that is appropriate to the mood of the number. Yes, it is cool (although there is warmth, too) but that was what the mood required. Incidentally, in his autobiography, Davis denies that Bill Evans composed (or co-composed) any of the pieces in "Kind of Blue" although he admits Evans' influence on his approach to the work.

Whether it is "the best jazz record ever" I am not qualified to judge although it is surely among the best. But how do you compare it with King Oliver, Bechet's "Out of the Galleon" or with Bird at his best?
Such comparisons are pointless as well as impossible. Just enjoy it for what it is.


Modal Jazz begginings, 29 Sep 2008
Miles Davis and his band ( and what a band ) explore modes in this record beggining a new era in jazz improvisation previously based in chord changes.
That was quite a big step .First , it gave greater freedom.Second, you must knew what to do with the freedom to avoid a musical disaster.
The truth is that this is one of this exceptional albums that you can listen to 1000 times and discover new layers and rewarding musical moments.
I mean , if you want to understand Jazz after 1950 buy this and if you want to listen to exceptional music buy it too.

The Master, 12 Sep 2008
Don't waste your time reading anymore reviews -just buy the album. Better jazz than this is hard to imagine! Put it on, listen and relax.

this is a superb jazz album classic!!, 28 Aug 2008
im open to all music mainly eccept rap hip hop dance not my kind of thing each to there own!! but this is a classic jazz album its fab im not a massive jazz lover but love some jazz charles mingus,countbasie,frank sinatra,nat king cole,ray charles,duke ellington i like jazz thats simple not too all over the place eg john coultrane a love supreme its good in parts but goes off in places its awfull in parts i like this album more simple buy it!! classic!!

Great stuff!, 24 Aug 2008
Somethin' Else: Remastered

Quite by chance I caught just three or four bars of the theme of "Autumn Leaves" on the radio. It was so obviously Miles, and at his very best. I immediately decided, on the basis of that brief snatch of melody, to try to get the CD. But it was not easy to run it down as, of course, the band was under the (nominal) leadership of Cannonball Adderley.

This is a wonderful CD with all players on top form and I heartily endorse what other reviewers have said. It is worth its modest price just for that exposition of the beautiful "Autumn Leaves" theme!


Essential for your collection, 14 Dec 2004
One of the favourite CD's in my collection, this record is right up there with the best. Cannonball may be the leader, but Miles is absolutely superb. He plays the tunes like they belong to him and really inspires the band. The thing that impresses me most is Autumn Leaves. Seeing such a common tune on the track listing one thinks 'Oh not again!', but when Miles comes in with the tune, you have to smile with delight - HE'S THAT GOOD! Don't miss out on this great music.

The greatest of all the Blue Notes?, 29 Feb 2004
This was very much a collaborative effort between Cannonball Adderley and the master himself, Miles Davis, in a rare guest appearance. Adderley was part of Miles' sextet that recorded 'Milestones' around the same time as this recording, and Miles was returning the favour. Miles is, if anything, more dominant on this album than his own.
The beautiful opener 'Autumn Leaves',one of the truly great jazz recordings, is an example of this, as Miles takes three solos to Adderley's one, playing the theme at the beginning and end. The arrangement of this standard is inspired, the piano intro and outro by Hank Jones work superbly well, and Miles is at his lyrical, moody best.
'Love For Sale' is also excellent, particularly Miles' contribution, and it is interesting to compare with the version by Miles' sextet, including Adderley, recorded a few months later, and found on '58 Sessions.'
After those two slow/medium tracks, Miles' own 'Somethin Else' raises the tempo and contains blistering interplay between the two men, both playing brilliantly in a joyful and exuberant performance.
Adderley redresses the balance with 'Dancing in the Dark,' where he takes the only lead role and slowly builds momentum and emotion in his playing.
'One for Daddy O' is another fine track featuring both soloists in great form, and although the additional 'Rangoon' is a pefectly decent performance, the album would be as good without it, as it was in its original form, with Dancing in the Dark' as the closing track.
A classic album, and in my opinion the best of all Blue Note recordings; a must for fans of either star (and the supporting cast isn't bad either including Art Blakey on drums!) It offers yet another element to Miles' remarkable late 50s music, arguably the greatest period of his career.

Flawless, sublime, the finest jazz album I know, 04 Apr 2002
One of my first jazz purchases, and the album against which I measure all others: and usually find wanting!

I picked up at random in the store, and it has become my jazz conversion album -- the one I buy for people who don't see why I love jazz.

A very close second to this album for me is Miles Davis, Kind of Blue.

I challenge you to not love this CD. "Autumn Leaves" alone will melt the hardest hard.

The best Miles of the mid fifties and a great band, 30 Dec 2001
A suberb mix of the introverted cool thoughtful Miles Davis and the extravert swing of Cannonball Adderley.
Everyone plays perfectly and you would think this was a well established unit, not a one off studio recording.
Each track is a beauty - no fillers or duds.

Many thought that Miles Davis's contributions to Charlie Parker's mid-1940s bebop quintet were insignificant if not disastrous, but his promise became clear on the 1949-50 nonet sides which were collected on LP in 1957 as Birth Of The Cool. If bop's breakneck tempos had caught the young trumpeter unprepared, he flourished in the more relaxed environments of such as "Jeru" and "Israel", maximising the lyricism which became the hallmark of his style. The credit must be shared, however: Miles was part of a group of young experimenters in which Gil Evans, previously noted for his impressionistic arrangements for Claude Thornhill, was a prominent voice. Hence flowing solos from Miles and alto saxophonist Lee Konitz are underpinned by detailed, multi-dimensional writing from Evans, Gerry Mulligan and John Carisi which is more intriguing than the improvisations. Kind Of Blue from 1959 is doubtless a Miles essential, but this set offers a broader sonic experience. The group's nine instruments--unusually for the time including French horn and tuba--are deployed with great craft to create rich, mobile tapestries of tone, texture and harmony. No sound like this had been heard before in jazz, and the rarefied yet vigorous mood it set floated through the collective consciousness of jazz in the ensuing years. There have been several CD editions of these sessions, but this is the first to be drawn from the original 78 tapes rather than the LP master. With transfers by Rudy Van Gelder, the result is a new freshness in music which in some respects still sounds like it could have been written yesterday. --Mark Gilbert

Estate Agents and other coffee-tablists: This is not the be-all and end-all of jazz!, 21 Nov 2008
It has already been said here that this album is usually found in non-jazz fans' collections alongside Bob Marley's greatest hits and most probably David Gray's entire ouvre. Perhaps it stands sentry there unplayed, just so its spine can be read, head tilted sideways, begging to impress upon whoever it is browsing through their collection some ill-gotten measure of sophistication? Perhaps they did play it once then decided no, they were right about jazz all along?

Modal, understated, and (aaargh!) cool, or tedious, cicuitous and under-cooked? Amongst aficionados, the most fiercely debated issue with the session is whether you are appreciating it at the correct pitch (an issue with the tape playback speed when it was mastered). That sums up the excitement levels for you. Hardly a dynamic recording to bolster enthusiasm for a novice jazz listener.

Personally, I feel sad for Bobby Timmons. Who? The pianist in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers who wrote 'Moanin'' the year previous to this release. If he had had the temerity to just repeat the head to that tune up a semitone and then back down again as Miles practically does here (on 'So What'), it would be that album redundantly nestling in millions of style magazine-reading cretins' cd collections rather than this (somehow I picture Robert Elms owning 2 dozen copies). I find modal jazz to be a device that is prone to being abused as a way to stretch out lame ideas for twice as long as they need to be, and Miles was always fond of waiting until the cab ride to the studio to write the material. Just saying.

Just so this is not completely written off as a Davis-hating rant, here are my pointers for a few other jazz albums (from the exact same time frame as this: 1958-9) for the uninitiated to peruse rather than this stultifyingly obvious choice. Beware neophytes; no one musical genre can be defined by (and thus written off by) one album and I really do want to encourage more people to listen to jazz. These just strike me as being as accessible as Kind Of Blue.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin'
Horace Silver - Blowin' The Blues Away
Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin'
Lou Donaldson - Gravy Train
Gil Evans - The Complete Pacific Jazz Sessions
Bennie Green - Soul Stirrin'

My noted Blue Note bias is definitely a factor in this list. But from my own experience, being compelled to study this album as a rock-loving music student, I was put off jazz for several years by its meandering pace and lack of excitement. It took me another 5 years to discover there was more to jazz than Miles.

Before he went funny, 07 Nov 2008
I can understand why fans of Davis' jazz fusion, jazz rock and electric stuff may find this bland since it was recorded before he decided to explore that newer territory (which I find weird and disappointing). It represents just one part of his journey from the Rhumboogie Orchestra in 1944, via bop and Gill Evans, to the synthesizer-enhanced(?) din he was making towards the end of his career. Only a few days after this session was recorded Coltrane cut "Giant Steps", which is a fair indication of the direction he was a taking.

However, for me and thousands of others this is a beautiful record, with all the musicians performing at their (then) peak. Even Coltrane makes a beautiful sound and they all swing mightily when that is appropriate to the mood of the number. Yes, it is cool (although there is warmth, too) but that was what the mood required. Incidentally, in his autobiography, Davis denies that Bill Evans composed (or co-composed) any of the pieces in "Kind of Blue" although he admits Evans' influence on his approach to the work.

Whether it is "the best jazz record ever" I am not qualified to judge although it is surely among the best. But how do you compare it with King Oliver, Bechet's "Out of the Galleon" or with Bird at his best?
Such comparisons are pointless as well as impossible. Just enjoy it for what it is.


Modal Jazz begginings, 29 Sep 2008
Miles Davis and his band ( and what a band ) explore modes in this record beggining a new era in jazz improvisation previously based in chord changes.
That was quite a big step .First , it gave greater freedom.Second, you must knew what to do with the freedom to avoid a musical disaster.
The truth is that this is one of this exceptional albums that you can listen to 1000 times and discover new layers and rewarding musical moments.
I mean , if you want to understand Jazz after 1950 buy this and if you want to listen to exceptional music buy it too.

The Master, 12 Sep 2008
Don't waste your time reading anymore reviews -just buy the album. Better jazz than this is hard to imagine! Put it on, listen and relax.

this is a superb jazz album classic!!, 28 Aug 2008
im open to all music mainly eccept rap hip hop dance not my kind of thing each to there own!! but this is a classic jazz album its fab im not a massive jazz lover but love some jazz charles mingus,countbasie,frank sinatra,nat king cole,ray charles,duke ellington i like jazz thats simple not too all over the place eg john coultrane a love supreme its good in parts but goes off in places its awfull in parts i like this album more simple buy it!! classic!!

Great stuff!, 24 Aug 2008
Somethin' Else: Remastered

Quite by chance I caught just three or four bars of the theme of "Autumn Leaves" on the radio. It was so obviously Miles, and at his very best. I immediately decided, on the basis of that brief snatch of melody, to try to get the CD. But it was not easy to run it down as, of course, the band was under the (nominal) leadership of Cannonball Adderley.

This is a wonderful CD with all players on top form and I heartily endorse what other reviewers have said. It is worth its modest price just for that exposition of the beautiful "Autumn Leaves" theme!


Essential for your collection, 14 Dec 2004
One of the favourite CD's in my collection, this record is right up there with the best. Cannonball may be the leader, but Miles is absolutely superb. He plays the tunes like they belong to him and really inspires the band. The thing that impresses me most is Autumn Leaves. Seeing such a common tune on the track listing one thinks 'Oh not again!', but when Miles comes in with the tune, you have to smile with delight - HE'S THAT GOOD! Don't miss out on this great music.

The greatest of all the Blue Notes?, 29 Feb 2004
This was very much a collaborative effort between Cannonball Adderley and the master himself, Miles Davis, in a rare guest appearance. Adderley was part of Miles' sextet that recorded 'Milestones' around the same time as this recording, and Miles was returning the favour. Miles is, if anything, more dominant on this album than his own.
The beautiful opener 'Autumn Leaves',one of the truly great jazz recordings, is an example of this, as Miles takes three solos to Adderley's one, playing the theme at the beginning and end. The arrangement of this standard is inspired, the piano intro and outro by Hank Jones work superbly well, and Miles is at his lyrical, moody best.
'Love For Sale' is also excellent, particularly Miles' contribution, and it is interesting to compare with the version by Miles' sextet, including Adderley, recorded a few months later, and found on '58 Sessions.'
After those two slow/medium tracks, Miles' own 'Somethin Else' raises the tempo and contains blistering interplay between the two men, both playing brilliantly in a joyful and exuberant performance.
Adderley redresses the balance with 'Dancing in the Dark,' where he takes the only lead role and slowly builds momentum and emotion in his playing.
'One for Daddy O' is another fine track featuring both soloists in great form, and although the additional 'Rangoon' is a pefectly decent performance, the album would be as good without it, as it was in its original form, with Dancing in the Dark' as the closing track.
A classic album, and in my opinion the best of all Blue Note recordings; a must for fans of either star (and the supporting cast isn't bad either including Art Blakey on drums!) It offers yet another element to Miles' remarkable late 50s music, arguably the greatest period of his career.

Flawless, sublime, the finest jazz album I know, 04 Apr 2002
One of my first jazz purchases, and the album against which I measure all others: and usually find wanting!

I picked up at random in the store, and it has become my jazz conversion album -- the one I buy for people who don't see why I love jazz.

A very close second to this album for me is Miles Davis, Kind of Blue.

I challenge you to not love this CD. "Autumn Leaves" alone will melt the hardest hard.

The best Miles of the mid fifties and a great band, 30 Dec 2001
A suberb mix of the introverted cool thoughtful Miles Davis and the extravert swing of Cannonball Adderley.
Everyone plays perfectly and you would think this was a well established unit, not a one off studio recording.
Each track is a beauty - no fillers or duds.

Caution, 15 Jul 2007
I own several of MD's album - my personal favourite being Sketches of Spain. This album, which is rather dull, I made the mistake of buying on the basis of the track Rocker on a compilation. It's dificult to describe, but to me the sound is too undifferenciated to let the melodies and tune speak. It is an ambient album. Pleasant, but doesn't set the blood racing. Instead, buy in A Silent Way, Sketches... or Kind of Blue.....Or better yet by the Best of Blue Note Comp' - not a duff track on it

Not many better starts to jazz than this, 26 Nov 2004
If you're new to jazz, you can easily be swayed away from the genre by stuff that sounds like a tray of dropped cutlery.

This, however, is a sheer joy to listen to - whether dipping a tentative toe into the ocean that is jazz, or if your beard smells of real ale and your favourite chords are augumented thirteenths.

The remarkable consensus amongst critics that this is one of the finest jazz albums made goes to show how strong it is. It is a major achievement that even jazz critics can't be snobbish about this - a groundbreaking record made in 1949 that still sounds fresh.

Buy - you will not be disappointed.

Cool and Blue, 11 Sep 2001
The cool ooozes out of this great Miles classic. Surely, together with Kind of Blue, a must have...

And if you liked this one, check out Gerry Mulligan's "Rebirth of cool"

And a genius is born..., 28 Apr 2001
This is where it all starts, people. You have to hear this stuff. If the only jazz CD you've ever heard of is 'Kind Of Blue', for my money this has a little more bite to it - oooh controversial. Still great though.

Estate Agents and other coffee-tablists: This is not the be-all and end-all of jazz!, 21 Nov 2008
It has already been said here that this album is usually found in non-jazz fans' collections alongside Bob Marley's greatest hits and most probably David Gray's entire ouvre. Perhaps it stands sentry there unplayed, just so its spine can be read, head tilted sideways, begging to impress upon whoever it is browsing through their collection some ill-gotten measure of sophistication? Perhaps they did play it once then decided no, they were right about jazz all along?

Modal, understated, and (aaargh!) cool, or tedious, cicuitous and under-cooked? Amongst aficionados, the most fiercely debated issue with the session is whether you are appreciating it at the correct pitch (an issue with the tape playback speed when it was mastered). That sums up the excitement levels for you. Hardly a dynamic recording to bolster enthusiasm for a novice jazz listener.

Personally, I feel sad for Bobby Timmons. Who? The pianist in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers who wrote 'Moanin'' the year previous to this release. If he had had the temerity to just repeat the head to that tune up a semitone and then back down again as Miles practically does here (on 'So What'), it would be that album redundantly nestling in millions of style magazine-reading cretins' cd collections rather than this (somehow I picture Robert Elms owning 2 dozen copies). I find modal jazz to be a device that is prone to being abused as a way to stretch out lame ideas for twice as long as they need to be, and Miles was always fond of waiting until the cab ride to the studio to write the material. Just saying.

Just so this is not completely written off as a Davis-hating rant, here are my pointers for a few other jazz albums (from the exact same time frame as this: 1958-9) for the uninitiated to peruse rather than this stultifyingly obvious choice. Beware neophytes; no one musical genre can be defined by (and thus written off by) one album and I really do want to encourage more people to listen to jazz. These just strike me as being as accessible as Kind Of Blue.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin'
Horace Silver - Blowin' The Blues Away
Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin'
Lou Donaldson - Gravy Train
Gil Evans - The Complete Pacific Jazz Sessions
Bennie Green - Soul Stirrin'

My noted Blue Note bias is definitely a factor in this list. But from my own experience, being compelled to study this album as a rock-loving music student, I was put off jazz for several years by its meandering pace and lack of excitement. It took me another 5 years to discover there was more to jazz than Miles.

Before he went funny, 07 Nov 2008
I can understand why fans of Davis' jazz fusion, jazz rock and electric stuff may find this bland since it was recorded before he decided to explore that newer territory (which I find weird and disappointing). It represents just one part of his journey from the Rhumboogie Orchestra in 1944, via bop and Gill Evans, to the synthesizer-enhanced(?) din he was making towards the end of his career. Only a few days after this session was recorded Coltrane cut "Giant Steps", which is a fair indication of the direction he was a taking.

However, for me and thousands of others this is a beautiful record, with all the musicians performing at their (then) peak. Even Coltrane makes a beautiful sound and they all swing mightily when that is appropriate to the mood of the number. Yes, it is cool (although there is warmth, too) but that was what the mood required. Incidentally, in his autobiography, Davis denies that Bill Evans composed (or co-composed) any of the pieces in "Kind of Blue" although he admits Evans' influence on his approach to the work.

Whether it is "the best jazz record ever" I am not qualified to judge although it is surely among the best. But how do you compare it with King Oliver, Bechet's "Out of the Galleon" or with Bird at his best?
Such comparisons are pointless as well as impossible. Just enjoy it for what it is.


Modal Jazz begginings, 29 Sep 2008
Miles Davis and his band ( and what a band ) explore modes in this record beggining a new era in jazz improvisation previously based in chord changes.
That was quite a big step .First , it gave greater freedom.Second, you must knew what to do with the freedom to avoid a musical disaster.
The truth is that this is one of this exceptional albums that you can listen to 1000 times and discover new layers and rewarding musical moments.
I mean , if you want to understand Jazz after 1950 buy this and if you want to listen to exceptional music buy it too.

The Master, 12 Sep 2008
Don't waste your time reading anymore reviews -just buy the album. Better jazz than this is hard to imagine! Put it on, listen and relax.

this is a superb jazz album classic!!, 28 Aug 2008
im open to all music mainly eccept rap hip hop dance not my kind of thing each to there own!! but this is a classic jazz album its fab im not a massive jazz lover but love some jazz charles mingus,countbasie,frank sinatra,nat king cole,ray charles,duke ellington i like jazz thats simple not too all over the place eg john coultrane a love supreme its good in parts but goes off in places its awfull in parts i like this album more simple buy it!! classic!!

Great stuff!, 24 Aug 2008
Somethin' Else: Remastered

Quite by chance I caught just three or four bars of the theme of "Autumn Leaves" on the radio. It was so obviously Miles, and at his very best. I immediately decided, on the basis of that brief snatch of melody, to try to get the CD. But it was not easy to run it down as, of course, the band was under the (nominal) leadership of Cannonball Adderley.

This is a wonderful CD with all players on top form and I heartily endorse what other reviewers have said. It is worth its modest price just for that exposition of the beautiful "Autumn Leaves" theme!


Essential for your collection, 14 Dec 2004
One of the favourite CD's in my collection, this record is right up there with the best. Cannonball may be the leader, but Miles is absolutely superb. He plays the tunes like they belong to him and really inspires the band. The thing that impresses me most is Autumn Leaves. Seeing such a common tune on the track listing one thinks 'Oh not again!', but when Miles comes in with the tune, you have to smile with delight - HE'S THAT GOOD! Don't miss out on this great music.

The greatest of all the Blue Notes?, 29 Feb 2004
This was very much a collaborative effort between Cannonball Adderley and the master himself, Miles Davis, in a rare guest appearance. Adderley was part of Miles' sextet that recorded 'Milestones' around the same time as this recording, and Miles was returning the favour. Miles is, if anything, more dominant on this album than his own.
The beautiful opener 'Autumn Leaves',one of the truly great jazz recordings, is an example of this, as Miles takes three solos to Adderley's one, playing the theme at the beginning and end. The arrangement of this standard is inspired, the piano intro and outro by Hank Jones work superbly well, and Miles is at his lyrical, moody best.
'Love For Sale' is also excellent, particularly Miles' contribution, and it is interesting to compare with the version by Miles' sextet, including Adderley, recorded a few months later, and found on '58 Sessions.'
After those two slow/medium tracks, Miles' own 'Somethin Else' raises the tempo and contains blistering interplay between the two men, both playing brilliantly in a joyful and exuberant performance.
Adderley redresses the balance with 'Dancing in the Dark,' where he takes the only lead role and slowly builds momentum and emotion in his playing.
'One for Daddy O' is another fine track featuring both soloists in great form, and although the additional 'Rangoon' is a pefectly decent performance, the album would be as good without it, as it was in its original form, with Dancing in the Dark' as the closing track.
A classic album, and in my opinion the best of all Blue Note recordings; a must for fans of either star (and the supporting cast isn't bad either including Art Blakey on drums!) It offers yet another element to Miles' remarkable late 50s music, arguably the greatest period of his career.

Flawless, sublime, the finest jazz album I know, 04 Apr 2002
One of my first jazz purchases, and the album against which I measure all others: and usually find wanting!

I picked up at random in the store, and it has become my jazz conversion album -- the one I buy for people who don't see why I love jazz.

A very close second to this album for me is Miles Davis, Kind of Blue.

I challenge you to not love this CD. "Autumn Leaves" alone will melt the hardest hard.

The best Miles of the mid fifties and a great band, 30 Dec 2001
A suberb mix of the introverted cool thoughtful Miles Davis and the extravert swing of Cannonball Adderley.
Everyone plays perfectly and you would think this was a well established unit, not a one off studio recording.
Each track is a beauty - no fillers or duds.

Caution, 15 Jul 2007
I own several of MD's album - my personal favourite being Sketches of Spain. This album, which is rather dull, I made the mistake of buying on the basis of the track Rocker on a compilation. It's dificult to describe, but to me the sound is too undifferenciated to let the melodies and tune speak. It is an ambient album. Pleasant, but doesn't set the blood racing. Instead, buy in A Silent Way, Sketches... or Kind of Blue.....Or better yet by the Best of Blue Note Comp' - not a duff track on it

Not many better starts to jazz than this, 26 Nov 2004
If you're new to jazz, you can easily be swayed away from the genre by stuff that sounds like a tray of dropped cutlery.

This, however, is a sheer joy to listen to - whether dipping a tentative toe into the ocean that is jazz, or if your beard smells of real ale and your favourite chords are augumented thirteenths.

The remarkable consensus amongst critics that this is one of the finest jazz albums made goes to show how strong it is. It is a major achievement that even jazz critics can't be snobbish about this - a groundbreaking record made in 1949 that still sounds fresh.

Buy - you will not be disappointed.

Cool and Blue, 11 Sep 2001
The cool ooozes out of this great Miles classic. Surely, together with Kind of Blue, a must have...

And if you liked this one, check out Gerry Mulligan's "Rebirth of cool"

And a genius is born..., 28 Apr 2001
This is where it all starts, people. You have to hear this stuff. If the only jazz CD you've ever heard of is 'Kind Of Blue', for my money this has a little more bite to it - oooh controversial. Still great though.

Mysterious and haunting, mesmersing and hypnotic - this is more than just music, 05 Oct 2006
Like the sea itself, Maiden Voyage is vast and epic- flirting with adventure and myth. It is Herbie Hancock's tour de force- what the wonderous Speak No Evil was to his Blue Note peer, Wayne Shorter- ie. representing the composer/pianist at his imaginitive peak. We can only imagine what kind of zone Freddie Hubbard, George Coleman, Ron Carter and Tony Williams must have been during the recording of this masterpiece- so wonderfully coherent yet brimming with subtle musical conflict. And Hancock's playing is simply majestic.

The opening track is stunningly simple- you might feel a little uninspired by the low-key opening, but then, all of a sudden, it all opens out beautifully during the trumpet solo. This short flourish embodies the enitre tone of the album and indeed the majesty of the ocean in its sense of wonder and awe.

After the fast-and-furious Eye of the Hurricaine, Hancock, with Little One, reminds us of his ability to produce deeply complex and challenging, yet incredibly beautiful compositions. It's probably my favourite track of the album.

Survival of the Fittest recalls The Egg, from Empyrean Isles(Blue Note, 1964) in its open improvisational structure. The sense of conflict and frantic struggle is briliantly portrayed, and the listener is unsure of whether the music is hideous, or beautiful.

To round off, Herbie returns to laid-back territory with Dolphin Dance- fresh enough to clear our musical palette after what has preceded.

While the briliant playing ability of this wonderful quintet is unquestionable, for me, it's Herbie's writing that makes album what it is. Maiden Voyage works as more of a "Love Supreme-esq" suite, rather than an album of five separate tracks. Not always easily listenable, always completley compelling, music is rarely this powerful.

La Mer, 29 May 2004
By now, Herbie Hancock was reaching a point were every convention, every facet of jazz he had experienced before was reaching near perfection in his compositions. He had already acheieved fame and lucratove offers from Blue Notes records, so finance was more or less assured. He was lucky. He had time to plan his works and choose the musicians he wanted. And Hancock was not a man to let such an opportunity just whizz by. This album proves that.
The sound and it's purpose is almost overpowering. It is a brilliant manifestation of the sea through sound. Particularly the opening and closing tracks capture the life of the sea and the sway and lull of the waves.
The playing on the musicians part is as always superb. Vocal resonance eminates from the saxophone and trumpet courtesy of Freddie Hubbard and George Coleman, bass strengthens the sound and gives it that woody, but flexible edge (Ron Carter). Tony Williams plays the drums as though they were an extention of his mind! The correctness of it all is overpowering. Herbie himself is genius at the keyboard. Particularly on Maiden Voyage, that piece which demands so much control and precision not only in tone, but dynamic and communication - it's handled brilliantly.
As I said earlier, Hancock had now reached a point where everything was just right. But, his mind would soon lean him in another, vastly more inventive direction. This album however, when compared also with the 60's standards 'Speak Like a Child' and 'My Point of View', is a more mature take on jazz. Jazz, which is flexible to every corner and desire the composer imposes - here it still feels at home. As at home as it feels on 'Headhunters', or the bouncy, brilliant tunes on 'Takin' Off'. Not only is that testament to jazz, but it is testament to Hancock's vision and technique in the studio.
This is simply a definitive jazz record, it is one of a kind and not only that - it sounds darn good for it.

Hancock's Finest Hour, 22 Feb 2004
As prolific an artist as Herbie Hancock has been over 40 years, this album endures as probably his best. He had made a startling contribution to 60s jazz already with the excellent debut album, 'Takin off' and the follow up, 'Empyrean Isles.' Although they contained more obvious 'hits in the form of 'Watermelon Man' and the wonderful 'Canteloupe Island,' this is his most consistent album.
Part of the lasting appeal of this record is its thematic approach, as all five tracks come across as part of the same whole, almost like a classical suite, with the ocean as its 'subject matter.' This was an unusual and bold step in the field of jazz but the music's descriptive nature is one of the reasons that people remember the whole record rather than just five individual tracks. It is a key part of the album's appeal, and most importantly, it works. The music is successfully subject driven rather than style orientated, and is both highly original and atmospheric throughout.
The obvious masterpiece of the album is the title track itself, a piece which slowly gets under your skin, and gets better with each listen. Hancock's steady repeated pattern gently grounds the whole piece, and Freddie Hubbard plays a superb solo alternating between calm tranquility, and majestic power.
The rest of the album ranges from the gently swinging 'Dolphin Dance,' the quiet beauty of the 'Little One' (also recorded by Miles Davis' quintet on ESP), to the menacing 'Eye of the Hurricane' and the thrill ride of 'Survival of the Fittest.' The whole band is brilliant, each following the leader's concept with music of lasting value. Freddie Hubbard not only confirms, but enhances his reputation as one of the most versatile and important soloists in jazz at the time, Joe Henderson is slightly less to the fore but is still excellent and the rhythm section are on the ball throughout.
One of the great 60s jazz albums and an essential part of anything like a jazz collection.

the voyage of discovery, 23 Nov 2003
This is probably the best jazz album of the 1960s by far in terms of a complete listening experience and a complete collaboration by all the musicians involved (I could have included Miles, Eric Dolphy or others but to me this is the crystal sound of a true artist at work). The title track has become a classic and out of very simple materials, the insight by Herbie being in the voicings of the chords rather than in any awesome display of skill. This is therefore a very harmonically based album but with some wonerful melodies (Dolphin Dance being a particular swinging, languid number). This is perhaps one of Jazz's first concept albums - a meditation on the power and poetic nature of the sea. The rhythm section is, as always considering that it is Miles' houseband, superb but George Coleman's sax given ample foil by Freddie Hubberds wonderfully agressive trumpet playing is absolutely riviting. Contemplative, lyrical, right on the button. Buy it if you are unlucky enough to have never heard it. If you have heard it buy this CD issue - the sound is superb.

Huge, elegant, poised, 02 Jun 2001
The players on Maiden Voyage are essentially those of the Miles Davis band - but how different from Miles' records it sounds and feels! In 1965, Herbie Hancock's leadership and vision were rapidly taking shape.

This album placed Hancock firmly in the company of the great jazz musicians. He had proved his mettle as an innovative and individual pianist on such excellent records as Wayne Shorter's Speak No Evil (Blue Note, 1964) and Miles' E.S.P. (Columbia, 1965), both recorded only months before. Now he led a group he knew intimately, and wrote enduring pieces for the date that were to become admired for decades to come.

The title track sets the tone for the whole record: subtle, measured, contemplative. It's the first solo opportunity for the perpetually underrated George Coleman, who displays virtuosity without arrogance, elegance without contrivance, depth of feeling without sentimentality.

Impeccably orchestrated pieces like "Little One" and the closing "Dolphin Dance" establish Herbie Hancock as the complete musician: inimitable pianist, creative composer, charismatic leader, supreme stylist.

Estate Agents and other coffee-tablists: This is not the be-all and end-all of jazz!, 21 Nov 2008
It has already been said here that this album is usually found in non-jazz fans' collections alongside Bob Marley's greatest hits and most probably David Gray's entire ouvre. Perhaps it stands sentry there unplayed, just so its spine can be read, head tilted sideways, begging to impress upon whoever it is browsing through their collection some ill-gotten measure of sophistication? Perhaps they did play it once then decided no, they were right about jazz all along?

Modal, understated, and (aaargh!) cool, or tedious, cicuitous and under-cooked? Amongst aficionados, the most fiercely debated issue with the session is whether you are appreciating it at the correct pitch (an issue with the tape playback speed when it was mastered). That sums up the excitement levels for you. Hardly a dynamic recording to bolster enthusiasm for a novice jazz listener.

Personally, I feel sad for Bobby Timmons. Who? The pianist in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers who wrote 'Moanin'' the year previous to this release. If he had had the temerity to just repeat the head to that tune up a semitone and then back down again as Miles practically does here (on 'So What'), it would be that album redundantly nestling in millions of style magazine-reading cretins' cd collections rather than this (somehow I picture Robert Elms owning 2 dozen copies). I find modal jazz to be a device that is prone to being abused as a way to stretch out lame ideas for twice as long as they need to be, and Miles was always fond of waiting until the cab ride to the studio to write the material. Just saying.

Just so this is not completely written off as a Davis-hating rant, here are my pointers for a few other jazz albums (from the exact same time frame as this: 1958-9) for the uninitiated to peruse rather than this stultifyingly obvious choice. Beware neophytes; no one musical genre can be defined by (and thus written off by) one album and I really do want to encourage more people to listen to jazz. These just strike me as being as accessible as Kind Of Blue.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin'
Horace Silver - Blowin' The Blues Away
Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin'
Lou Donaldson - Gravy Train
Gil Evans - The Complete Pacific Jazz Sessions
Bennie Green - Soul Stirrin'

My noted Blue Note bias is definitely a factor in this list. But from my own experience, being compelled to study this album as a rock-loving music student, I was put off jazz for several years by its meandering pace and lack of excitement. It took me another 5 years to discover there was more to jazz than Miles.

Before he went funny, 07 Nov 2008
I can understand why fans of Davis' jazz fusion, jazz rock and electric stuff may find this bland since it was recorded before he decided to explore that newer territory (which I find weird and disappointing). It represents just one part of his journey from the Rhumboogie Orchestra in 1944, via bop and Gill Evans, to the synthesizer-enhanced(?) din he was making towards the end of his career. Only a few days after this session was recorded Coltrane cut "Giant Steps", which is a fair indication of the direction he was a taking.

However, for me and thousands of others this is a beautiful record, with all the musicians performing at their (then) peak. Even Coltrane makes a beautiful sound and they all swing mightily when that is appropriate to the mood of the number. Yes, it is cool (although there is warmth, too) but that was what the mood required. Incidentally, in his autobiography, Davis denies that Bill Evans composed (or co-composed) any of the pieces in "Kind of Blue" although he admits Evans' influence on his approach to the work.

Whether it is "the best jazz record ever" I am not qualified to judge although it is surely among the best. But how do you compare it with King Oliver, Bechet's "Out of the Galleon" or with Bird at his best?
Such comparisons are pointless as well as impossible. Just enjoy it for what it is.


Modal Jazz begginings, 29 Sep 2008
Miles Davis and his band ( and what a band ) explore modes in this record beggining a new era in jazz improvisation previously based in chord changes.
That was quite a big step .First , it gave greater freedom.Second, you must knew what to do with the freedom to avoid a musical disaster.
The truth is that this is one of this exceptional albums that you can listen to 1000 times and discover new layers and rewarding musical moments.
I mean , if you want to understand Jazz after 1950 buy this and if you want to listen to exceptional music buy it too.

The Master, 12 Sep 2008
Don't waste your time reading anymore reviews -just buy the album. Better jazz than this is hard to imagine! Put it on, listen and relax.

this is a superb jazz album classic!!, 28 Aug 2008
im open to all music mainly eccept rap hip hop dance not my kind of thing each to there own!! but this is a classic jazz album its fab im not a massive jazz lover but love some jazz charles mingus,countbasie,frank sinatra,nat king cole,ray charles,duke ellington i like jazz thats simple not too all over the place eg john coultrane a love supreme its good in parts but goes off in places its awfull in parts i like this album more simple buy it!! classic!!

Great stuff!, 24 Aug 2008
Somethin' Else: Remastered

Quite by chance I caught just three or four bars of the theme of "Autumn Leaves" on the radio. It was so obviously Miles, and at his very best. I immediately decided, on the basis of that brief snatch of melody, to try to get the CD. But it was not easy to run it down as, of course, the band was under the (nominal) leadership of Cannonball Adderley.

This is a wonderful CD with all players on top form and I heartily endorse what other reviewers have said. It is worth its modest price just for that exposition of the beautiful "Autumn Leaves" theme!


Essential for your collection, 14 Dec 2004
One of the favourite CD's in my collection, this record is right up there with the best. Cannonball may be the leader, but Miles is absolutely superb. He plays the tunes like they belong to him and really inspires the band. The thing that impresses me most is Autumn Leaves. Seeing such a common tune on the track listing one thinks 'Oh not again!', but when Miles comes in with the tune, you have to smile with delight - HE'S THAT GOOD! Don't miss out on this great music.

The greatest of all the Blue Notes?, 29 Feb 2004
This was very much a collaborative effort between Cannonball Adderley and the master himself, Miles Davis, in a rare guest appearance. Adderley was part of Miles' sextet that recorded 'Milestones' around the same time as this recording, and Miles was returning the favour. Miles is, if anything, more dominant on this album than his own.
The beautiful opener 'Autumn Leaves',one of the truly great jazz recordings, is an example of this, as Miles takes three solos to Adderley's one, playing the theme at the beginning and end. The arrangement of this standard is inspired, the piano intro and outro by Hank Jones work superbly well, and Miles is at his lyrical, moody best.
'Love For Sale' is also excellent, particularly Miles' contribution, and it is interesting to compare with the version by Miles' sextet, including Adderley, recorded a few months later, and found on '58 Sessions.'
After those two slow/medium tracks, Miles' own 'Somethin Else' raises the tempo and contains blistering interplay between the two men, both playing brilliantly in a joyful and exuberant performance.
Adderley redresses the balance with 'Dancing in the Dark,' where he takes the only lead role and slowly builds momentum and emotion in his playing.
'One for Daddy O' is another fine track featuring both soloists in great form, and although the additional 'Rangoon' is a pefectly decent performance, the album would be as good without it, as it was in its original form, with Dancing in the Dark' as the closing track.
A classic album, and in my opinion the best of all Blue Note recordings; a must for fans of either star (and the supporting cast isn't bad either including Art Blakey on drums!) It offers yet another element to Miles' remarkable late 50s music, arguably the greatest period of his career.

Flawless, sublime, the finest jazz album I know, 04 Apr 2002
One of my first jazz purchases, and the album against which I measure all others: and usually find wanting!

I picked up at random in the store, and it has become my jazz conversion album -- the one I buy for people who don't see why I love jazz.

A very close second to this album for me is Miles Davis, Kind of Blue.

I challenge you to not love this CD. "Autumn Leaves" alone will melt the hardest hard.

The best Miles of the mid fifties and a great band, 30 Dec 2001
A suberb mix of the introverted cool thoughtful Miles Davis and the extravert swing of Cannonball Adderley.
Everyone plays perfectly and you would think this was a well established unit, not a one off studio recording.
Each track is a beauty - no fillers or duds.

Caution, 15 Jul 2007
I own several of MD's album - my personal favourite being Sketches of Spain. This album, which is rather dull, I made the mistake of buying on the basis of the track Rocker on a compilation. It's dificult to describe, but to me the sound is too undifferenciated to let the melodies and tune speak. It is an ambient album. Pleasant, but doesn't set the blood racing. Instead, buy in A Silent Way, Sketches... or Kind of Blue.....Or better yet by the Best of Blue Note Comp' - not a duff track on it

Not many better starts to jazz than this, 26 Nov 2004
If you're new to jazz, you can easily be swayed away from the genre by stuff that sounds like a tray of dropped cutlery.

This, however, is a sheer joy to listen to - whether dipping a tentative toe into the ocean that is jazz, or if your beard smells of real ale and your favourite chords are augumented thirteenths.

The remarkable consensus amongst critics that this is one of the finest jazz albums made goes to show how strong it is. It is a major achievement that even jazz critics can't be snobbish about this - a groundbreaking record made in 1949 that still sounds fresh.

Buy - you will not be disappointed.

Cool and Blue, 11 Sep 2001
The cool ooozes out of this great Miles classic. Surely, together with Kind of Blue, a must have...

And if you liked this one, check out Gerry Mulligan's "Rebirth of cool"

And a genius is born..., 28 Apr 2001
This is where it all starts, people. You have to hear this stuff. If the only jazz CD you've ever heard of is 'Kind Of Blue', for my money this has a little more bite to it - oooh controversial. Still great though.

Mysterious and haunting, mesmersing and hypnotic - this is more than just music, 05 Oct 2006
Like the sea itself, Maiden Voyage is vast and epic- flirting with adventure and myth. It is Herbie Hancock's tour de force- what the wonderous Speak No Evil was to his Blue Note peer, Wayne Shorter- ie. representing the composer/pianist at his imaginitive peak. We can only imagine what kind of zone Freddie Hubbard, George Coleman, Ron Carter and Tony Williams must have been during the recording of this masterpiece- so wonderfully coherent yet brimming with subtle musical conflict. And Hancock's playing is simply majestic.

The opening track is stunningly simple- you might feel a little uninspired by the low-key opening, but then, all of a sudden, it all opens out beautifully during the trumpet solo. This short flourish embodies the enitre tone of the album and indeed the majesty of the ocean in its sense of wonder and awe.

After the fast-and-furious Eye of the Hurricaine, Hancock, with Little One, reminds us of his ability to produce deeply complex and challenging, yet incredibly beautiful compositions. It's probably my favourite track of the album.

Survival of the Fittest recalls The Egg, from Empyrean Isles(Blue Note, 1964) in its open improvisational structure. The sense of conflict and frantic struggle is briliantly portrayed, and the listener is unsure of whether the music is hideous, or beautiful.

To round off, Herbie returns to laid-back territory with Dolphin Dance- fresh enough to clear our musical palette after what has preceded.

While the briliant playing ability of this wonderful quintet is unquestionable, for me, it's Herbie's writing that makes album what it is. Maiden Voyage works as more of a "Love Supreme-esq" suite, rather than an album of five separate tracks. Not always easily listenable, always completley compelling, music is rarely this powerful.

La Mer, 29 May 2004
By now, Herbie Hancock was reaching a point were every convention, every facet of jazz he had experienced before was reaching near perfection in his compositions. He had already acheieved fame and lucratove offers from Blue Notes records, so finance was more or less assured. He was lucky. He had time to plan his works and choose the musicians he wanted. And Hancock was not a man to let such an opportunity just whizz by. This album proves that.
The sound and it's purpose is almost overpowering. It is a brilliant manifestation of the sea through sound. Particularly the opening and closing tracks capture the life of the sea and the sway and lull of the waves.
The playing on the musicians part is as always superb. Vocal resonance eminates from the saxophone and trumpet courtesy of Freddie Hubbard and George Coleman, bass strengthens the sound and gives it that woody, but flexible edge (Ron Carter). Tony Williams plays the drums as though they were an extention of his mind! The correctness of it all is overpowering. Herbie himself is genius at the keyboard. Particularly on Maiden Voyage, that piece which demands so much control and precision not only in tone, but dynamic and communication - it's handled brilliantly.
As I said earlier, Hancock had now reached a point where everything was just right. But, his mind would soon lean him in another, vastly more inventive direction. This album however, when compared also with the 60's standards 'Speak Like a Child' and 'My Point of View', is a more mature take on jazz. Jazz, which is flexible to every corner and desire the composer imposes - here it still feels at home. As at home as it feels on 'Headhunters', or the bouncy, brilliant tunes on 'Takin' Off'. Not only is that testament to jazz, but it is testament to Hancock's vision and technique in the studio.
This is simply a definitive jazz record, it is one of a kind and not only that - it sounds darn good for it.

Hancock's Finest Hour, 22 Feb 2004
As prolific an artist as Herbie Hancock has been over 40 years, this album endures as probably his best. He had made a startling contribution to 60s jazz already with the excellent debut album, 'Takin off' and the follow up, 'Empyrean Isles.' Although they contained more obvious 'hits in the form of 'Watermelon Man' and the wonderful 'Canteloupe Island,' this is his most consistent album.
Part of the lasting appeal of this record is its thematic approach, as all five tracks come across as part of the same whole, almost like a classical suite, with the ocean as its 'subject matter.' This was an unusual and bold step in the field of jazz but the music's descriptive nature is one of the reasons that people remember the whole record rather than just five individual tracks. It is a key part of the album's appeal, and most importantly, it works. The music is successfully subject driven rather than style orientated, and is both highly original and atmospheric throughout.
The obvious masterpiece of the album is the title track itself, a piece which slowly gets under your skin, and gets better with each listen. Hancock's steady repeated pattern gently grounds the whole piece, and Freddie Hubbard plays a superb solo alternating between calm tranquility, and majestic power.
The rest of the album ranges from the gently swinging 'Dolphin Dance,' the quiet beauty of the 'Little One' (also recorded by Miles Davis' quintet on ESP), to the menacing 'Eye of the Hurricane' and the thrill ride of 'Survival of the Fittest.' The whole band is brilliant, each following the leader's concept with music of lasting value. Freddie Hubbard not only confirms, but enhances his reputation as one of the most versatile and important soloists in jazz at the time, Joe Henderson is slightly less to the fore but is still excellent and the rhythm section are on the ball throughout.
One of the great 60s jazz albums and an essential part of anything like a jazz collection.

the voyage of discovery, 23 Nov 2003
This is probably the best jazz album of the 1960s by far in terms of a complete listening experience and a complete collaboration by all the musicians involved (I could have included Miles, Eric Dolphy or others but to me this is the crystal sound of a true artist at work). The title track has become a classic and out of very simple materials, the insight by Herbie being in the voicings of the chords rather than in any awesome display of skill. This is therefore a very harmonically based album but with some wonerful melodies (Dolphin Dance being a particular swinging, languid number). This is perhaps one of Jazz's first concept albums - a meditation on the power and poetic nature of the sea. The rhythm section is, as always considering that it is Miles' houseband, superb but George Coleman's sax given ample foil by Freddie Hubberds wonderfully agressive trumpet playing is absolutely riviting. Contemplative, lyrical, right on the button. Buy it if you are unlucky enough to have never heard it. If you have heard it buy this CD issue - the sound is superb.

Huge, elegant, poised, 02 Jun 2001
The players on Maiden Voyage are essentially those of the Miles Davis band - but how different from Miles' records it sounds and feels! In 1965, Herbie Hancock's leadership and vision were rapidly taking shape.

This album placed Hancock firmly in the company of the great jazz musicians. He had proved his mettle as an innovative and individual pianist on such excellent records as Wayne Shorter's Speak No Evil (Blue Note, 1964) and Miles' E.S.P. (Columbia, 1965), both recorded only months before. Now he led a group he knew intimately, and wrote enduring pieces for the date that were to become admired for decades to come.

The title track sets the tone for the whole record: subtle, measured, contemplative. It's the first solo opportunity for the perpetually underrated George Coleman, who displays virtuosity without arrogance, elegance without contrivance, depth of feeling without sentimentality.

Impeccably orchestrated pieces like "Little One" and the closing "Dolphin Dance" establish Herbie Hancock as the complete musician: inimitable pianist, creative composer, charismatic leader, supreme stylist.

Effortless brilliance, 16 Feb 2007
Hynotic, subtle and the same time wonderfully soulful this record surely sits within the top five of all time Blue Note releases. It's the ultimate late night session. The consistently wonderfully Kenny Burrell who makes the difficult sound effortlessly simple gives a masterclass in Jazz guitar playing with an endlesss tapestry of smooth licks that melt into the instinctive groove of Stanley Turrentine's sax. It's a partnership made in heaven, they work so languidly off each other on, "Mule" The way Burrell brings in the track on,"Soul lament," with his emotive twanging are classic bars of music. I am also particularly fond of the waltz tempo on,"Wavy Gravy."
This record is wonderfully focussed, Burrell's musical philosophy is stamped all over the music. The rhythm section do some great work too. On,"Midnight Blue," Ray Barretto's conga which keeps the groove skipping along.
Credit must also go to producer Alfred Lion who allowed Burrell scope and time to work through the tracks when at the time it was unusual to give the guitar so much exposure.
This record has a unique mood and feel to it that you simply won't find on other records. If you are just starting a Jazz collection make this one of your essential first purchases.

Classic Blue Note, 05 May 2004
If I was asked by someone who had no experience of jazz what album would serve as a good introduction to the music, I would unreservedly recommend Kenny Burrell's 1967 masterpiece "Midnight Blue." This was recorded at a time when the boundaries of the music were being pushed ever further out and the technical aspects were becoming increasingly complex. Whilst these developments were commendable, Burrell simultaneously produced this album that consists of nothing more complicated than either of blues or blues based material such as "Gee Baby, aint I good to you." Of course, in the hands of great jazz musicians, the simple form of the blues offers unlimited possibilities and "Midnight Blues" is , perhaps, the supreme example of what can be achieved. The disc features the leader's deliciously cool guitar licks with the soulful tenor sax of Stanley Turrentine and the two are ably supported by a grooving rythmn section. "Chitlins con carne" will be familiar with many listeners as it has been employed on numerous TV commercials, but it is true to say that there is not a dull moment on the record. "Mule" gets really low down into the blues whilst "Wavy Gravy" is an infectious 3/4 groover. (If your toes are tapping to this one, you must have seriously have a problem!) However, my favourite track is "Saturday Night Blues" where Turrentine cranks the tension up chorus after stonking chorus.
During the 1950's and 60's the Blue Note label produced a stream of brilliant albums, many of which have justly been acknolwedged to be real classics. Kenny Burrell's "Midnight Blue" is rightly considered to be amongst the upper echelon of these great recordings and is flawless in it's execution. Even the cover by Reid Miles is a classic!!
This is one of my all time favourite records and is unreservedly recommended to those who have not yet been acquainted with it.

Delicious!!, 20 Jan 2004
Well I'd never heard of Kenny Burrell and simply took a punt on this and oh boy its still cooking. I must say, I introduced this album at a party full of hip-hop folks and I do believe I got my point across and a few converted people along the way(they still can't openly admit it though :) ). Wonderful album

Wonderful..., 30 Dec 2003
Wonderful indeed… and worthy of inclusion on anyone’s shortlist of the best late night albums ever made. Kenny Burrell’s & Stanley Turrentine’s superbly cool playing combined with strong blues based melodies and lock-tight backings produce music that completely captures the ambience of a smoky club on a hot summer night. Unobtrusive, unforgettable and packed full of low-key jazz virtuosity at its very best.

A Goodie., 29 Oct 2003
I bought this from Amazon because the sax player is Stanley Turrentine, whose "Blue Hour Sessions" (check that one out too readers) is one of my all time favourites. This CD is in a similar vein. Blues rhythms with a jazz feel, but never losing sight of the blues. Every track, including the 2 bonuses is a winner, taking you to the jazz club you wish you had visited last night when you heart was breaking. Kenny Burrell's funky guitar, together with Turrentine's smooth as velvet sax cooks up a bluesy sleazy recipe for the musical gourmet.

A musical chameleon, pianist Keith Jarrett was at his finest when he recorded these sustained solo improvisations in a German concert hall in 1975, the first lasting 26 minutes, the second 40. Melodies and rhythmic figures arise fluidly from his fingers as he moves from one idea to another, while his strong left hand is often used for repeated motifs that generate a rolling hypnotic power. This couples with strongly consonant harmonies to impart the flavour of gospel music at times, dance music and Debussy at others. Above all, it's Jarrett's ability to knit all of his moods and wanderings into an almost seamless tapestry of warm and tuneful ideas that gives this music its enduring appeal. --Stuart Broomer

Estate Agents and other coffee-tablists: This is not the be-all and end-all of jazz!, 21 Nov 2008
It has already been said here that this album is usually found in non-jazz fans' collections alongside Bob Marley's greatest hits and most probably David Gray's entire ouvre. Perhaps it stands sentry there unplayed, just so its spine can be read, head tilted sideways, begging to impress upon whoever it is browsing through their collection some ill-gotten measure of sophistication? Perhaps they did play it once then decided no, they were right about jazz all along?

Modal, understated, and (aaargh!) cool, or tedious, cicuitous and under-cooked? Amongst aficionados, the most fiercely debated issue with the session is whether you are appreciating it at the correct pitch (an issue with the tape playback speed when it was mastered). That sums up the excitement levels for you. Hardly a dynamic recording to bolster enthusiasm for a novice jazz listener.

Personally, I feel sad for Bobby Timmons. Who? The pianist in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers who wrote 'Moanin'' the year previous to this release. If he had had the temerity to just repeat the head to that tune up a semitone and then back down again as Miles practically does here (on 'So What'), it would be that album redundantly nestling in millions of style magazine-reading cretins' cd collections rather than this (somehow I picture Robert Elms owning 2 dozen copies). I find modal jazz to be a device that is prone to being abused as a way to stretch out lame ideas for twice as long as they need to be, and Miles was always fond of waiting until the cab ride to the studio to write the material. Just saying.

Just so this is not completely written off as a Davis-hating rant, here are my pointers for a few other jazz albums (from the exact same time frame as this: 1958-9) for the uninitiated to peruse rather than this stultifyingly obvious choice. Beware neophytes; no one musical genre can be defined by (and thus written off by) one album and I really do want to encourage more people to listen to jazz. These just strike me as being as accessible as Kind Of Blue.

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers - Moanin'
Horace Silver - Blowin' The Blues Away
Sonny Clark - Cool Struttin'
Lou Donaldson - Gravy Train
Gil Evans - The Complete Pacific Jazz Sessions
Bennie Green - Soul Stirrin'

My noted Blue Note bias is definitely a factor in this list. But from my own experience, being compelled to study this album as a rock-loving music student, I was put off jazz for several years by its meandering pace and lack of excitement. It took me another 5 years to discover there was more to jazz than Miles.

Before he went funny, 07 Nov 2008
I can understand why fans of Davis' jazz fusion, jazz rock and electric stuff may find this bland since it was recorded before he decided to explore that newer territory (which I find weird and disappointing). It represents just one part of his journey from the Rhumboogie Orchestra in 1944, via bop and Gill Evans, to the synthesizer-enhanced(?) din he was making towards the end of his career. Only a few days after this session was recorded Coltrane cut "Giant Steps", which is a fair indication of the direction he was a taking.

However, for me and thousands of others this is a beautiful record, with all the musicians performing at their (then) peak. Even Coltrane makes a beautiful sound and they all swing mightily when that is appropriate to the mood of the number. Yes, it is cool (although there is warmth, too) but that was what the mood required. Incidentally, in his autobiography, Davis denies that Bill Evans composed (or co-composed) any of the pieces in "Kind of Blue" although he admits Evans' influence on his approach to the work.

Whether it is "the best jazz record ever" I am not qualified to judge although it is surely among the best. But how do you compare it with King Oliver, Bechet's "Out of the Galleon" or with Bird at his best?
Such comparisons are pointless as well as impossible. Just enjoy it for what it is.


Modal Jazz begginings, 29 Sep 2008
Miles Davis and his band ( and what a band ) explore modes in this record beggining a new era in jazz improvisation previously based in chord changes.
That was quite a big step .First , it gave greater freedom.Second, you must knew what to do with the freedom to avoid a musical disaster.
The truth is that this is one of this exceptional albums that you can listen to 1000 times and discover new layers and rewarding musical moments.
I mean , if you want to understand Jazz after 1950 buy this and if you want to listen to exceptional music buy it too.

The Master, 12 Sep 2008
Don't waste your time reading anymore reviews -just buy the album. Better jazz than this is hard to imagine! Put it on, listen and relax.

this is a superb jazz album classic!!, 28 Aug 2008
im open to all music mainly eccept rap hip hop dance not my kind of thing each to there own!! but this is a classic jazz album its fab im not a massive jazz lover but love some jazz charles mingus,countbasie,frank sinatra,nat king cole,ray charles,duke ellington i like jazz thats simple not too all over the place eg john coultrane a love supreme its good in parts but goes off in places its awfull in parts i like this album more simple buy it!! classic!!

Great stuff!, 24 Aug 2008
Somethin' Else: Remastered

Quite by chance I caught just three or four bars of the theme of "Autumn Leaves" on the radio. It was so obviously Miles, and at his very best. I immediately decided, on the basis of that brief snatch of melody, to try to get the CD. But it was not easy to run it down as, of course, the band was under the (nominal) leadership of Cannonball Adderley.

This is a wonderful CD with all players on top form and I heartily endorse what other reviewers have said. It is worth its modest price just for that exposition of the beautiful "Autumn Leaves" theme!


Essential for your collection, 14 Dec 2004
One of the favourite CD's in my collection, this record is right up there with the best. Cannonball may be the leader, but Miles is absolutely superb. He plays the tunes like they belong to him and really inspires the band. The thing that impresses me most is Autumn Leaves. Seeing such a common tune on the track listing one thinks 'Oh not again!', but when Miles comes in with the tune, you have to smile with delight - HE'S THAT GOOD! Don't miss out on this great music.

The greatest of all the Blue Notes?, 29 Feb 2004
This was very much a collaborative effort between Cannonball Adderley and the master himself, Miles Davis, in a rare guest appearance. Adderley was part of Miles' sextet that recorded 'Milestones' around the same time as this recording, and Miles was returning the favour. Miles is, if anything, more dominant on this album than his own.
The beautiful opener 'Autumn Leaves',one of the truly great jazz recordings, is an example of this, as Miles takes three solos to Adderley's one, playing the theme at the beginning and end. The arrangement of this standard is inspired, the piano intro and outro by Hank Jones work superbly well, and Miles is at his lyrical, moody best.
'Love For Sale' is also excellent, particularly Miles' contribution, and it is interesting to compare with the version by Miles' sextet, including Adderley, recorded a few months later, and found on '58 Sessions.'
After those two slow/medium tracks, Miles' own 'Somethin Else' raises the tempo and contains blistering interplay between the two men, both playing brilliantly in a joyful and exuberant performance.
Adderley redresses the balance with 'Dancing in the Dark,' where he takes the only lead role and slowly builds momentum and emotion in his playing.
'One for Daddy O' is another fine track featuring both soloists in great form, and although the additional 'Rangoon' is a pefectly decent performance, the album would be as good without it, as it was in its original form, with Dancing in the Dark' as the closing track.
A classic album, and in my opinion the best of all Blue Note recordings; a must for fans of either star (and the supporting cast isn't bad either including Art Blakey on drums!) It offers yet another element to Miles' remarkable late 50s music, arguably the greatest period of his career.

Flawless, sublime, the finest jazz album I know, 04 Apr 2002
One of my first jazz purchases, and the album against which I measure all others: and usually find wanting!

I picked up at random in the store, and it has become my jazz conversion album -- the one I buy for people who don't see why I love jazz.

A very close second to this album for me is Miles Davis, Kind of Blue.

I challenge you to not love this CD. "Autumn Leaves" alone will melt the hardest hard.

The best Miles of the mid fifties and a great band, 30 Dec 2001
A suberb mix of the introverted cool thoughtful Miles Davis and the extravert swing of Cannonball Adderley.
Everyone plays perfectly and you would think this was a well established unit, not a one off studio recording.
Each track is a beauty - no fillers or duds.

Caution, 15 Jul 2007
I own several of MD's album - my personal favourite being Sketches of Spain. This album, which is rather dull, I made the mistake of buying on the basis of the track Rocker on a compilation. It's dificult to describe, but to me the sound is too undifferenciated to let the melodies and tune speak. It is an ambient album. Pleasant, but doesn't set the blood racing. Instead, buy in A Silent Way, Sketches... or Kind of Blue.....Or better yet by the Best of Blue Note Comp' - not a duff track on it

Not many better starts to jazz than this, 26 Nov 2004
If you're new to jazz, you can easily be swayed away from the genre by stuff that sounds like a tray of dropped cutlery.

This, however, is a sheer joy to listen to - whether dipping a tentative toe into the ocean that is jazz, or if your beard smells of real ale and your favourite chords are augumented thirteenths.

The remarkable consensus amongst critics that this is one of the finest jazz albums made goes to show how strong it is. It is a major achievement that even jazz critics can't be snobbish about this - a groundbreaking record made in 1949 that still sounds fresh.

Buy - you will not be disappointed.

Cool and Blue, 11 Sep 2001
The cool ooozes out of this great Miles classic. Surely, together with Kind of Blue, a must have...

And if you liked this one, check out Gerry Mulligan's "Rebirth of cool"

And a genius is born..., 28 Apr 2001
This is where it all starts, people. You have to hear this stuff. If the only jazz CD you've ever heard of is 'Kind Of Blue', for my money this has a little more bite to it - oooh controversial. Still great though.

Mysterious and haunting, mesmersing and hypnotic - this is more than just music, 05 Oct 2006
Like the sea itself, Maiden Voyage is vast and epic- flirting with adventure and myth. It is Herbie Hancock's tour de force- what the wonderous Speak No Evil was to his Blue Note peer, Wayne Shorter- ie. representing the composer/pianist at his imaginitive peak. We can only imagine what kind of zone Freddie Hubbard, George Coleman, Ron Carter and Tony Williams must have been during the recording of this masterpiece- so wonderfully coherent yet brimming with subtle musical conflict. And Hancock's playing is simply majestic.

The opening track is stunningly simple- you might feel a little uninspired by the low-key opening, but then, all of a sudden, it all opens out beautifully during the trumpet solo. This short flourish embodies the enitre tone of the album and indeed the majesty of the ocean in its sense of wonder and awe.

After the fast-and-furious Eye of the Hurricaine, Hancock, with Little One, reminds us of his ability to produce deeply complex and challenging, yet incredibly beautiful compositions. It's probably my favourite track of the album.

Survival of the Fittest recalls The Egg, from Empyrean Isles(Blue Note, 1964) in its open improvisational structure. The sense of conflict and frantic struggle is briliantly portrayed, and the listener is unsure of whether the music is hideous, or beautiful.

To round off, Herbie returns to laid-back territory with Dolphin Dance- fresh enough to clear our musical palette after what has preceded.

While the briliant playing ability of this wonderful quintet is unquestionable, for me, it's Herbie's writing that makes album what it is. Maiden Voyage works as more of a "Love Supreme-esq" suite, rather than an album of five separate tracks. Not always easily listenable, always completley compelling, music is rarely this powerful.

La Mer, 29 May 2004
By now, Herbie Hancock was reaching a point were every convention, every facet of jazz he had experienced before was reaching near perfection in his compositions. He had already acheieved fame and lucratove offers from Blue Notes records, so finance was more or less assured. He was lucky. He had time to plan his works and choose the musicians he wanted. And Hancock was not a man to let such an opportunity just whizz by. This album proves that.
The sound and it's purpose is almost overpowering. It is a brilliant manifestation of the sea through sound. Particularly the opening and closing tracks capture the life of the sea and the sway and lull of the waves.
The playing on the musicians part is as always superb. Vocal resonance eminates from the saxophone and trumpet courtesy of Freddie Hubbard and George Coleman, bass strengthens the sound and gives it that woody, but flexible edge (Ron Carter). Tony Williams plays the drums as though they were an extention of his mind! The correctness of it all is overpowering. Herbie himself is genius at the keyboard. Particularly on Maiden Voyage, that piece which demands so much control and precision not only in tone, but dynamic and communication - it's handled brilliantly.
As I said earlier, Hancock had now reached a point where everything was just right. But, his mind would soon lean him in another, vastly more inventive direction. This album however, when compared also with the 60's standards 'Speak Like a Child' and 'My Point of View', is a more mature take on jazz. Jazz, which is flexible to every corner and desire the composer imposes - here it still feels at home. As at home as it feels on 'Headhunters', or the bouncy, brilliant tunes on 'Takin' Off'. Not only is that testament to jazz, but it is testament to Hancock's vision and technique in the studio.
This is simply a definitive jazz record, it is one of a kind and not only that - it sounds darn good for it.

Hancock's Finest Hour, 22 Feb 2004
As prolific an artist as Herbie Hancock has been over 40 years, this album endures as probably his best. He had made a startling contribution to 60s jazz already with the excellent debut album, 'Takin off' and the follow up, 'Empyrean Isles.' Although they contained more obvious 'hits in the form of 'Watermelon Man' and the wonderful 'Canteloupe Island,' this is his most consistent album.
Part of the lasting appeal of this record is its thematic approach, as all five tracks come across as part of the same whole, almost like a classical suite, with the ocean as its 'subject matter.' This was an unusual and bold step in the field of jazz but the music's descriptive nature is one of the reasons that people remember the whole record rather than just five individual tracks. It is a key part of the album's appeal, and most importantly, it works. The music is successfully subject driven rather than style orientated, and is both highly original and atmospheric throughout.
The obvious masterpiece of the album is the title track itself, a piece which slowly gets under your skin, and gets better with each listen. Hancock's steady repeated pattern gently grounds the whole piece, and Freddie Hubbard plays a superb solo alternating between calm tranquility, and majestic power.
The rest of the album ranges from the gently swinging 'Dolphin Dance,' the quiet beauty of the 'Little One' (also recorded by Miles Davis' quintet on ESP), to the menacing 'Eye of the Hurricane' and the thrill ride of 'Survival of the Fittest.' The whole band is brilliant, each following the leader's concept with music of lasting value. Freddie Hubbard not only confirms, but enhances his reputation as one of the most versatile and important soloists in jazz at the time, Joe Henderson is slightly less to the fore but is still excellent and the rhythm section are on the ball throughout.
One of the great 60s jazz albums and an essential part of anything like a jazz collection.

the voyage of discovery, 23 Nov 2003
This is probably the best jazz album of the 1960s by far in terms of a complete listening experience and a complete collaboration by all the musicians involved (I could have included Miles, Eric Dolphy or others but to me this is the crystal sound of a true artist at work). The title track has become a classic and out of very simple materials, the insight by Herbie being in the voicings of the chords rather than in any awesome display of skill. This is therefore a very harmonically based album but with some wonerful melodies (Dolphin Dance being a particular swinging, languid number). This is perhaps one of Jazz's first concept albums - a meditation on the power and poetic nature of the sea. The rhythm section is, as always considering that it is Miles' houseband, superb but George Coleman's sax given ample foil by Freddie Hubberds wonderfully agressive trumpet playing is absolutely riviting. Contemplative, lyrical, right on the button. Buy it if you are unlucky enough to have never heard it. If you have heard it buy this CD issue - the sound is superb.

Huge, elegant, poised, 02 Jun 2001
The players on Maiden Voyage are essentially those of the Miles Davis band - but how different from Miles' records it sounds and feels! In 1965, Herbie Hancock's leadership and vision were rapidly taking shape.

This album placed Hancock firmly in the company of the great jazz musicians. He had proved his mettle as an innovative and individual pianist on such excellent records as Wayne Shorter's Speak No Evil (Blue Note, 1964) and Miles' E.S.P. (Columbia, 1965), both recorded only months before. Now he led a group he knew intimately, and wrote enduring pieces for the date that were to become admired for decades to come.

The title track sets the tone for the whole record: subtle, measured, contemplative. It's the first solo opportunity for the perpetually underrated George Coleman, who displays virtuosity without arrogance, elegance without contrivance, depth of feeling without sentimentality.

Impeccably orchestrated pieces like "Little One" and the closing "Dolphin Dance" establish Herbie Hancock as the complete musician: inimitable pianist, creative composer, charismatic leader, supreme stylist.

Effortless brilliance, 16 Feb 2007
Hynotic, subtle and the same time wonderfully soulful this record surely sits within the top five of all time Blue Note releases. It's the ultimate late night session. The consistently wonderfully Kenny Burrell who makes the difficult sound effortlessly simple gives a masterclass in Jazz guitar playing with an endlesss tapestry of smooth licks that melt into the instinctive groove of Stanley Turrentine's sax. It's a partnership made in heaven, they work so languidly off each other on, "Mule" The way Burrell brings in the track on,"Soul lament," with his emotive twanging are classic bars of music. I am also particularly fond of the waltz tempo on,"Wavy Gravy."
This record is wonderfully focussed, Burrell's musical philosophy is stamped all over the music. The rhythm section do some great work too. On,"Midnight Blue," Ray Barretto's conga which keeps the groove skipping along.
Credit must also go to producer Alfred Lion who allowed Burrell scope and time to work through the tracks when at the time it was unusual to give the guitar so much exposure.
This record has a unique mood and feel to it that you simply won't find on other records. If you are just starting a Jazz collection make this one of your essential first purchases.

Classic Blue Note, 05 May 2004
If I was asked by someone who had no experience of jazz what album would serve as a good introduction to the music, I would unreservedly recommend Kenny Burrell's 1967 masterpiece "Midnight Blue." This was recorded at a time when the boundaries of the music were being pushed ever further out and the technical aspects were becoming increasingly complex. Whilst these developments were commendable, Burrell simultaneously produced this album that consists of nothing more complicated than either of blues or blues based material such as "Gee Baby, aint I good to you." Of course, in the hands of great jazz musicians, the simple form of the blues offers unlimited possibilities and "Midnight Blues" is , perhaps, the supreme example of what can be achieved. The disc features the leader's deliciously cool guitar licks with the soulful tenor sax of Stanley Turrentine and the two are ably supported by a grooving rythmn section. "Chitlins con carne" will be familiar with many listeners as it has been employed on numerous TV commercials, but it is true to say that there is not a dull moment on the record. "Mule" gets really low down into the blues whilst "Wavy Gravy" is an infectious 3/4 groover. (If your toes are tapping to this one, you must have seriously have a problem!) However, my favourite track is "Saturday Night Blues" where Turrentine cranks the tension up chorus after stonking chorus.
During the 1950's and 60's the Blue Note label produced a stream of brilliant albums, many of which have justly been acknolwedged to be real classics. Kenny Burrell's "Midnight Blue" is rightly considered to be amongst the upper echelon of these great recordings and is flawless in it's execution. Even the cover by Reid Miles is a classic!!
This is one of my all time favourite records and is unreservedly recommended to those who have not yet been acquainted with it.

Delicious!!, 20 Jan 2004
Well I'd never heard of Kenny Burrell and simply took a punt on this and oh boy its still cooking. I must say, I introduced this album at a party full of hip-hop folks and I do believe I got my point across and a few converted people along the way(they still can't openly admit it though :) ). Wonderful album

Wonderful..., 30 Dec 2003
Wonderful indeed… and worthy of inclusion on anyone’s shortlist of the best late night albums ever made. Kenny Burrell’s & Stanley Turrentine’s superbly cool playing combined with strong blues based melodies and lock-tight backings produce music that completely captures the ambience of a smoky club on a hot summer night. Unobtrusive, unforgettable and packed full of low-key jazz virtuosity at its very best.

A Goodie., 29 Oct 2003
I bought this from Amazon because the sax player is Stanley Turrentine, whose "Blue Hour Sessions" (check that one out too readers) is one of my all time favourites. This CD is in a similar vein. Blues rhythms with a jazz feel, but never losing sight of the blues. Every track, including the 2 bonuses is a winner, taking you to the jazz club you wish you had visited last night when you heart was breaking. Kenny Burrell's funky guitar, together with Turrentine's smooth as velvet sax cooks up a bluesy sleazy recipe for the musical gourmet.

Piano playing at its best, 22 Oct 2007
I first heard this record at a friends house. I was completely blown away. I went straight to the first record store and bought it. Since then it became my favorite Jazz album of all times, and has put Keith Jarret, in my opinion, on the top of the world's greatest piano players.
I've been a fan ever since and bought every single live album he has released. They are all amazing, but there's no love like the first one.
No record collection will be complete without it.


THIS is real music!, 10 May 2007
One cannot express in words the beauty of this music. It is utterly raw, coming straight from the heart, a work of sheer genius. Whilst many pieces of so-called piano jazz easily lend themselves to the background of an occasion, the Koln Concert demands constant attention; with all of its changes in tempo, key, style and melody, the listener is enticed into the music, eagerly awaiting the next delicate keystrokes. Indeed, rather than being required to glean the often precious-few moments of brilliance from much music, with Keith Jarrett at the piano, the listener finds these instances thrust upon them every few seconds!

If you concentrate on the music for just a minute, you will find melodies which would ordinarily be the core of a piece, but which in this situation are simply played fleetingly, only to be replaced by yet another gorgeous tune.

I highly recommend this music to absolutely anyone; you do not have to be a jazz-lover to appreciate it! Even if you have never listened to this genre before (I am still unsure as to what "this genre" actually is!!), I sincerely appeal to you to give it a go! I promise you won't be disappointed!

If you do decide to purchase this album, and enjoy it anywhere near as much as I have, may I also recommend the Sun Bear Concerts, the Paris Concert, and Live at Carnegie Hall for more of the same! Jarrett has also played in a jazz trio, with Gary Peacock and Jack DeJohnette, and their music is also excellent. Other jazz pianists who I have found to have a similar touch include; Brad Mehldau, Bill Evans and Michael Wollny, although their music tends not to be improvised.

Happy listening!

a work of genius, 26 Feb 2007
Is Jarrett playing the piano or is the piano playing Jarrett or is the music playing both of them? This is beyond improvisation. Jarrett is responding to every note, totally in the moment.

by the way - sorry to be pedantic, but it wasn't in the opening of Carnal Knowledge (released in 1971, 4 years earlier than the concert) but in Nicholas Roeg's Bad Timing starring Teresa Russell and Art Garfunkel. That's the firs