Highlights from the Plugged Nickel cover

Released 30 years ago

Highlights from the Plugged Nickel

Miles Davis · 1996

73 min · 6 tracks · jazz fusion · bebop · hard bop

A vibrant live showcase of improvisational brilliance, capturing the essence of jazz's evolution through electric energy and soulful melodies.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • intense improvisational live energy
  • long tracks for deep engagement
  • soulful melodies with emotional depth
  • late-night club atmosphere

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer short, standalone tracks
  • seek predictable song structures

Where this album fits

Themes
Chicago jazz scene· electric improvisation· 1960s musical evolution
Career context
Released in 1996, 'Highlights from the Plugged Nickel' comes during Miles Davis's later career, reflecting his return to live performance after a lengthy hiatus. This album compiles recordings from a legendary 1965 engagement in Chicago, showcasing his explorative approach to jazz as he transitioned into more fusion-oriented styles.
Stylistic neighbors
John Coltrane· Herbie Hancock· Wayne Shorter
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Head Hunters by Herbie Hancock — Shares the same electric improvisation and fusion elements, blending jazz with funk rhythms.
Return to Forever by Chick Corea — Merges energetic live performance with innovative jazz fusion, echoing the electric vibe of the 60s.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Milestones 11:36
  • 2 Yesterdays 15:09
  • 3 So What 13:39
  • 4 Stella by Starlight 13:12
  • 5 Walkin' 11:01
  • 6 'Round About Midnight 8:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata