Kind of Blue: The Making of The Miles Davis Masterpiece
** By Ashley Kahn. This is "a celebration" of what might be the most popular jazz album of all time. If you already know the album, it's an interesting making-of kind of read. I wouldn't beat down the doors of the bookstore to go find it, but for fans like me, it's a good, quick read.
Miles Davis's album Kind of Blue is considered a major turning point in the history of jazz. It changed the way everyone approached the music almost immediately on its release. Among jazz fans, everyone has a story of their first listen. I remember both my first and second clearly; the first I didn't understand it at all, couldn't get into it; the second was a wide-eyed epiphany.
Kahn gives us a cursory history of jazz from the years leading up to the recording of the album in 1959, takes us through the recording sessions, and discusses some of the aftermath. There are notes and charts from the sessions, photographs, and other goodies.
Most importantly, if you haven't heard the album, that's a real tragedy. Find Kind of Blue, buy it, and listen to it. Then listen to it again. Repeat. Once you've done that, if you want to learn more, this book is a good place to start. If you really want to learn more about Miles Davis, read his outstanding autobiography.
I repeat: Listen to the album! Sure, the book's okay, but buy the album!
Posted by Joe on April 27, 2002 10:18 PM