I think every list of “the best albums of all time” feels that they need to include a jazz album. I’m not sure why, but it seems like every rock critic feels like they have to include it to seem like they’re a well-rounded person. Or something. Inevitably the albums chosen are A Kind of Blue or Bitches Brew by Miles Davis.
But here’s the thing. That’s not the place to start with Miles Davis.
The Miles Davis album(s) that you should listen are the Prestige sessions (cooking, relaxing, working, steaming … ). The story behind these albums is that he wanted to get out of his recording contract, but owed his record company 4 albums. So, in two days, he put together a band of the most talented musicians he knew, he chose a selection of jazz standards. And reached the sky. These are untouchable classics. They’re basically perfect versions of these songs. Even if you know nothing about jazz, you’ll like those albums. They might not explore new musical territory like Bitches Brew or A Kind of Blue (and purists will say that all jazz should), but they’re so good they make all other jazz albums redundant.
What was I supposed to be talking about?
Oh yeah.
That’s right.
Kenny G.
Don’t listen to this album.
It’s nothing like the Prestige Sessions
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