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First Miles
Jazz · 1989 · 16 tracks

First Miles

Miles Davis

A crucial compilation capturing Miles Davis's earliest recorded work, from his nervous debut as a sideman to his first sessions as a bandleader with Charlie Parker's ensemble, offering a foundational

May 5, 1989 · Savoy Jazz

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This album is a time capsule, transporting you directly to the smoky, vibrant jazz clubs of the mid-1940s. It's the sound of a legend finding his voice, a raw, exhilarating burst of bebop energy. You'll hear the lightning-fast improvisations of Charlie Parker, the driving rhythm section, and the nascent, distinctive trumpet of Miles Davis as he steps into the spotlight. It's essential listening for anyone wanting to understand the very roots of modern jazz and witness the birth of an icon.

Tracklist · 16 Tracks
01
Mile Stones (First take 1/Master take 2)
2:46
02
Mile Stones (take 3)
2:46
03
Little Willie Leaps (First take 1/Alt. take 2)
3:47
04
Little Willie Leaps (Master take 3)
2:53
05
Half Nelson (Alt. take 1)
2:52
06
Half Nelson (Master take 2)
2:45
07
Sippin' at Bells (First take 1.Master take 2)
3:21
08
Sippin' at Bells (First take 3/Alt. take 4)
2:34
09
That's the Stuff You Gotta Watch (Alt. take 1)
3:06
10
That's the Stuff You Gotta Watch (Alt. take 2)
3:13
11
That's the Stuff You Gotta Watch (Master take 3)
3:17
12
Pointless Mama Blues
2:51
13
Deap Sea Blues
3:16
14
Bring It on Home (First take)
3:07
15
Bring It on Home (Alt. take 2)
2:50
16
Bring It on Home (Master take 3)
3:17
Moments Worth Listening For
The stark contrast between the ensemble work on the Rubberlegs Williams tracks and the assertive, leader-driven trumpet on the "Miles Davis All-Stars" sessions.
Charlie Parker's electrifying alto saxophone solos throughout the 1947 tracks, showcasing his unparalleled bebop mastery.
Miles Davis's developing trumpet voice on tracks like "Donna Lee" or "Symphony Sid," hinting at the melodic genius to come, even amidst his stated nervousness.
The crisp, remastered sound bringing unexpected clarity to these foundational mono recordings, particularly the interplay between the rhythm section and soloists.
Where This Album DepartsEach spoke is a trait. The orange shape shows where this album pulls away from — or holds to — the rest of the artist’s catalogue. Tap for more.

How does First Miles sound next to the rest of Miles Davis's catalogue?

Triumphant+3.5σ

Triumphant saturates this record far more than the artist's norm.

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