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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • spacious explorations of sound
  • patient unfolding of themes
  • immersive late-night journeys
  • intricate melodic conversations
  • dynamic improvisation with depth

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking quick, catchy tunes
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Themes
spacious improvisation· jazz fusion evolution· meditative soundscapes
Career 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.
Stylistic neighbors
John Coltrane· Herbie Hancock· Wayne Shorter
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Future Shock by Herbie Hancock — Explores atmospheric jazz fusion with intricate melodies and a futuristic approach to sound.
Return to Forever by Chick Corea — Features spacious improvisation and complex arrangements, embodying the jazz fusion evolution.
Heavy Weather by Weather Report — Combines meditative soundscapes with intricate melodic lines and a focus on improvisation.

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

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

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata