Birdland 1951 cover

Birdland 1951

Miles Davis · 2004

67 min · 10 tracks · jazz fusion · bebop · hard bop

A vibrant tapestry of improvisation showcasing the early brilliance of jazz legends in an iconic New York club setting.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant improvisation with energy
  • ideal for late-night listening
  • captivating club atmosphere immersion
  • dynamic interplay among musicians

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification tracks
  • prefer structured song formats

Where this album fits

Themes
New York jazz scene· bebop revolution· live improvisation
Career context
Released in 2004, 'Birdland 1951' serves as a posthumous collection celebrating Miles Davis's formative years during the bebop revolution. At this time, Davis had already established himself as a leading figure in jazz with his previous works, yet this album highlights a pivotal live performance that captures his evolving sound and artistry.
Stylistic neighbors
John Coltrane· Herbie Hancock· Wayne Shorter
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Giant Steps by John Coltrane — Explores complex improvisation and harmonic innovation within the vibrant jazz scene of the 1960s.
Monk's Dream by Thelonious Monk — Captures live spontaneity and the distinctive New York jazz atmosphere with innovative melodies.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Move 6:13
  • 2 Half Nelson 7:34
  • 3 Down 7:14
  • 4 Out of the Blue 5:54
  • 5 Half Nelson 7:42
  • 6 Tempus Fugit 6:44
  • 7 Move 5:44
  • 8 Move 6:22
  • 9 The Squirrel 8:38
  • 10 Lady Bird 5:30

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata