What makes Steamin' with The Miles Davis Quintet by Miles Davis Quintet notable?

This album is notable for its critical reception, featuring prominently in discussions about the evolution of jazz and Davis's influence on the genre. It has been praised for its sophisticated arrangements and improvisation, reinforcing the quintet's role in pushing jazz forward in the early 1960s. By 1961, Miles Davis was firmly established as a leading figure in jazz, following the groundbreaking 'Kind of Blue' just two years prior. 'Steamin' with The Miles Davis Quintet' represents a continuation of his innovative work with his second great quintet, showcasing the exceptional chemistry between its members during a transformative period in Davis's career.

How many songs are on Steamin' with The Miles Davis Quintet?

Steamin' with The Miles Davis Quintet has 6 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Steamin' with The Miles Davis Quintet

Miles Davis Quintet · 1961

39 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant tapestry of intricate melodies and improvisational brilliance, weaving together classic jazz standards with a fresh twist.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Surrey With the Fringe on Top — This track stands out for its playful reimagining of a Broadway classic, highlighting the quintet's ability to blend traditional forms with innovative jazz techniques.
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Well, You Needn't — A signature piece that showcases the quintet’s tight interplay and rhythmic complexity, this track exemplifies their mastery of both melody and improvisation.
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When I Fall in Love — This rendition transforms a romantic standard into an emotional exploration, demonstrating Davis's unique phrasing and the ensemble's cohesive sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and skilled improvisation, contributing to its lasting appeal in jazz.

What we noticed

The first three tracks maintain a brisk tempo, while the final three slow down, creating a dynamic shift in energy throughout the record.
Each musician takes turns leading sections, allowing for a fluid interplay that highlights their individual styles while maintaining cohesion.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

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.

Tracklist

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

1 The Surrey With the Fringe on Top 9:02
2 Salt Peanuts 6:06
3 Something I Dreamed Last Night 6:13
4 Diane 7:47
5 Well, You Needn't 6:18
6 When I Fall in Love 4:21

What to play next

Listen next

Paris, France

1990

Go back to

Workin' with The Miles Davis Quintet

1960

Full Miles Davis Quintet discography Artists like Miles Davis Quintet

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata