Live-Evil
Miles Davis · 1971
102 min · 8 tracks · jazz
A bold fusion of jazz, rock, and funk that pushes the boundaries of improvisation and sonic exploration.
Top tracks — play these first
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Sivad Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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What I Say — This track exemplifies the album's experimental spirit with its lengthy improvisational sections that blend jazz and funk, showcasing Davis's innovative approach to rhythm and melody.
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Funky Tonk — With its driving groove and intricate solos, this track encapsulates the essence of the jazz-funk crossover, illustrating Davis's ability to fuse disparate styles seamlessly.
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Medley: Gemini / Double Image — This medley highlights the collective improvisation skills of the band members, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reflects their synergy and creative exploration.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album's fusion of electric sounds and improvisation creates a distinctive and engaging listening experience.
What we noticed
- The album features extended improvisational sections, with several tracks exceeding ten minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
- Electric instruments dominate the sound, with prominent use of electric piano and guitar alongside traditional jazz elements.
- The final track includes spoken narration, which contrasts with the predominantly instrumental nature of the preceding pieces.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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9/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- gradual build to climactic release
- extended improvisation for deep focus
- dynamic fusion of rhythmic intensity
- immersive listening for late nights
Maybe skip if you
- prefer concise standalone tracks
- seek immediate gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Experimental — Embraces electric instrumentation and improvisation, marking a shift in Davis's sound.
- Themes
- jazz fusion evolution· electric improvisation· funk-infused grooves
- Career context
- Released in November 1971, Live-Evil represents a transitional phase for Miles Davis as he embraced electric instrumentation and fusion. This album followed his commercially successful Bitches Brew, solidifying his departure from acoustic jazz while continuing to innovate within the genre. It showcases the ensemble's dynamic interplay, featuring notable musicians like John McLaughlin and Chick Corea.
- Stylistic neighbors
- John Coltrane· Herbie Hancock· Wayne Shorter
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Sivad Start here 15:16
- 2 Little Church 3:17
- 3 Medley: Gemini / Double Image 5:56
- 4 What I Say 21:12
- 5 Nem Um Talvez 4:03
Disc 2
- 1 Selim 2:15
- 2 Funky Tonk 23:28
- 3 Inamorata and Narration by Conrad Roberts 26:29
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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