The Man with the Horn cover

The Man with the Horn

Miles Davis · 1981

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

A vibrant fusion of jazz and rock, blending electric instrumentation with Davis's signature trumpet style.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • vibrant energy for social settings
  • extended tracks for deep exploration
  • engaging trumpet leads throughout
  • playful rhythms invite movement

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek concise, standalone songs

Where this album fits

Themes
jazz fusion experimentation· electric trumpet innovation· post-hiatus resurgence
Career context
By 1981, Miles Davis was reinventing himself after a five-year hiatus from the recording studio. 'The Man with the Horn' marked his return to prominence, showcasing a shift towards jazz fusion that combined traditional elements with contemporary sounds. This album set the stage for his later works in the 1980s, reflecting both personal and musical evolution.
Stylistic neighbors
John Coltrane· Herbie Hancock· Wayne Shorter
Sounds like this from elsewhere
Future Shock by Herbie Hancock — Explores jazz fusion with electronic elements and innovative production, reflecting a similar era of experimentation.
Return to Forever by Chick Corea — Merges jazz, rock, and Latin influences, showcasing electric instrumentation akin to Davis's fusion style.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Fat Time 9:57
  • 2 Back Seat Betty 11:16
  • 3 Shout 5:51
  • 4 Aida 8:12
  • 5 The Man With the Horn 6:35
  • 6 Ursula 10:46

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata