TUTU

Most fans do not look back on the 1980s as a great time for prog, classic rock, jazz, and blues. Reviews of Tutu on this site reflect that feeling. While the album was a popular and commercial success, and garnered Davis two Grammys, it did not receive high ratings from critics. The intent of the album was to re-spark Miles' popularity by incorporating current sounds and technology into the music. In a sense, this was achieved. I'm a fan of Marcus Miller, and must say that he played his role well here. But while Miller is a great player, the big problem is that the music suffers from not being played by a band involving interplay and improvisation. By comparison, see the more favourable reviews of Davis' 1989 album Amandla (also a collaboration with Miller) on this site and elsewhere. I quite like the music on both albums, but prefer Amandla.

As for the 2011 deluxe edition of Tutu, it must be noted that the remaster's sound is greatly improved over the original release. But the real treat for prog and jazz fans is the second disc recorded live in July 1986 at Nice, France. Miles' band plays great, with the addition of Robben Ford on guitar adding spark to the performances. The tunes are stretched out and incorporate improvisation. Prog fans should be much happier with the live versions of the two cuts off Tutu itself, Portia and Splatch, along with the live treatment of the other tunes on the second disc.

I'll give the live disc five stars; it's a great listen!

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