Directions cover

Directions

Miles Davis · 1981

95 min · 12 tracks · jazz fusion · bebop · hard bop

A spacious exploration of jazz fusion, blending atmospheric improvisation with intricate melodic lines.

Why this album works

Best for
spacious explorations of sound patient unfolding of themes immersive late-night journeys
Context
Released in 1981, 'Directions' marked a significant phase in Miles Davis's career as he transitioned from the groundbreaking 'On the Corner'. This album featured a lineup of talented musicians, reflecting Davis's continuous evolution in sound and style during his later years. It was his first studio album after a five-year hiatus, showcasing his return to recording.
If you like
jazz fusion, bebop, hard bop

Directions is an album by Miles Davis, released in 1981. A spacious exploration of jazz fusion, blending atmospheric improvisation with intricate melodic lines. The album is notable for its exploration of jazz fusion and received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to composition. It stands as a testament to Davis's influence on subsequent generations of jazz musicians and is often referenced in discussions about the evolution of jazz in the late 20th century. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Directions sound like?

A spacious exploration of jazz fusion, blending atmospheric improvisation with intricate melodic lines. Rooted in jazz fusion and bebop.

What makes Directions by Miles Davis notable?

The album is notable for its exploration of jazz fusion and received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to composition. It stands as a testament to Davis's influence on subsequent generations of jazz musicians and is often referenced in discussions about the evolution of jazz in the late 20th century. Released in 1981, 'Directions' marked a significant phase in Miles Davis's career as he transitioned from the groundbreaking 'On the Corner'. This album featured a lineup of talented musicians, reflecting Davis's continuous evolution in sound and style during his later years. It was his first studio album after a five-year hiatus, showcasing his return to recording.

Who is Directions for?

Directions works well if you're into spacious explorations of sound, patient unfolding of themes and immersive late-night journeys.

How many songs are on Directions?

Directions has 12 tracks, running approximately 95 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·95:18

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Song of Our Country 3:27
  • 2 ’Round Midnight Standout 7:44
  • 3 So Near, So Far Standout 5:18
  • 4 Limbo 5:33
  • 5 Water on the Pond 7:04
  • 6 Fun 4:12
  • 7 Directions I Standout 6:51
  • 8 Directions II 4:51

Disc 2

  • 1 Ascent 14:44
  • 2 Duran 11:00
  • 3 Konda 14:10
  • 4 Willie Nelson 10:20

Release Date

January 1, 1981

Genre

bebop, hard bop, jazz fusion

More albums in hard bop

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

95 min 18 sec