First Miles cover

First Miles

Miles Davis · 1990

48 min · 16 tracks · jazz fusion · bebop · hard bop

A collection of raw and exploratory takes showcasing Miles Davis's early virtuosity and innovation in jazz.

Why this album works

Best for
exploratory raw takes and improvisation brief snapshots of musical ideas intimate listening for enthusiasts
Context
Released in 1990, 'First Miles' arrives during a period when Davis was revisiting his legacy. This compilation features unreleased early recordings from the late 1940s and early 1950s, a time pivotal for the development of bebop. It serves as a retrospective bridge connecting his groundbreaking work to new audiences.
If you like
jazz fusion, bebop, hard bop

First Miles is an album by Miles Davis, released in 1990. A collection of raw and exploratory takes showcasing Miles Davis's early virtuosity and innovation in jazz. This album is significant for its archival value, presenting previously unheard takes that illuminate the evolution of jazz during a formative period. Critics praised its insight into Davis's creative process, contributing to discussions about jazz history and artistry in the genre. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does First Miles sound like?

A collection of raw and exploratory takes showcasing Miles Davis's early virtuosity and innovation in jazz. Rooted in jazz fusion and bebop.

What makes First Miles by Miles Davis notable?

This album is significant for its archival value, presenting previously unheard takes that illuminate the evolution of jazz during a formative period. Critics praised its insight into Davis's creative process, contributing to discussions about jazz history and artistry in the genre. Released in 1990, 'First Miles' arrives during a period when Davis was revisiting his legacy. This compilation features unreleased early recordings from the late 1940s and early 1950s, a time pivotal for the development of bebop. It serves as a retrospective bridge connecting his groundbreaking work to new audiences.

Who is First Miles for?

First Miles works well if you're into exploratory raw takes and improvisation, brief snapshots of musical ideas and intimate listening for enthusiasts.

How many songs are on First Miles?

First Miles has 16 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Tracklist

16 tracks·48:41

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

  • 1 Mile Stones (first take 1/master take 2) Standout 2:46
  • 2 Mile Stones (take 3) 2:46
  • 3 Little Willie Leaps (first take 1/alt. take 2) 3:46
  • 4 Little Willie Leaps (master take 3) Standout 2:52
  • 5 Half Nelson (alt. take 1) 2:51
  • 6 Half Nelson (master take 2) 2:44
  • 7 Sippin' at Bells (first take 1.master take 2) Standout 3:20
  • 8 Sippin' at Bells (first take 3/alt. take 4) 2:34
  • 9 That's the Stuff You Gotta Watch (alt. take 1) 3:05
  • 10 That's the Stuff You Gotta Watch (alt. take 2) 3:13
  • 11 That's the Stuff You Gotta Watch (master take 3) 3:17
  • 12 Pointless Mama Blues 2:51
  • 13 Deap Sea Blues 3:16
  • 14 Bring It on Home (first take) 3:06
  • 15 Bring It on Home (alt. take 2) 2:50
  • 16 Bring It on Home (master take 3) 3:16

Release Date

July 12, 1990

Genre

bebop, hard bop, jazz fusion

More albums in hard bop

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

48 min 41 sec