Mellow Miles cover

Mellow Miles

Miles Davis · 1985

70 min · 12 tracks · jazz

A soothing blend of smooth jazz and classic standards, showcasing Davis's innovative trumpet work and contemplative arrangements.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Miles Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    So What — This track exemplifies Davis's modal approach, with its memorable bass line and spacey improvisations that invite deep listening.
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    Summertime — Davis’s rendition breathes new life into this classic, with his poignant trumpet melodies capturing the essence of languid summer days.
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    'Round Midnight — 'Round Midnight showcases a serene, haunting quality that highlights Davis's ability to convey emotion through minimalist phrasing.
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    Freddie Freeloader — This track features a laid-back groove and playful interactions among musicians, illustrating the collaborative spirit of jazz.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with fluid transitions
  • ideal for evening relaxation
  • captivating centerpiece tracks
  • evocative mood for introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced listening
  • seek short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Marks a return for Davis, showcasing his continued innovation in jazz.
Themes
languid summer days· introspective jazz standards· post-retirement reflection
Career context
Released in 1985, Mellow Miles came during a period of relative obscurity for Miles Davis, following his retirement in the late 1970s. This album marked his return to recording after a five-year hiatus, showcasing a more introspective side of his artistry as he revisited jazz standards.
Stylistic neighbors
John Coltrane· Herbie Hancock· Wayne Shorter

Tracklist

  • 1 Miles Start here 5:44
  • 2 Summertime 3:19
  • 3 So What 9:05
  • 4 Time After Time 3:32
  • 5 Miles Ahead 3:29
  • 6 Freddie Freeloader 9:36
  • 7 Bye Bye Blackbird 7:54
  • 8 Pfrancing 8:33
  • 9 'Round Midnight 5:54
  • 10 It Ain't Necessarily So 4:25
  • 11 Human Nature 4:29
  • 12 New Rhumba 4:28

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata