BITCHES BREW

This could be one of the greatest musical achievements of the 20th century. On this record, traditional jazz is left behind in favour of a new breed of jazz, which became known as "fusion". All musicians featured on the album are professionals. You have Miles, who is the trumpeter and band leader. There is also the lead guitarist, John McLaughlin, who later found success with his own band, The Mahavishnu Orchestra. He even has a song dedicated to him on this album. The large ensemble also contains Chick Corea, Dave Holland, Jack DeJohnette, Wayne Shorter, and Joe Zawinul.

Various studio edits were made by the producer Teo Macero. Jazz was previously just recorded in the studio, but not necessarily mixed, at least to the extent that this album was. The studio also played an important part in Bitches Brew's predecessor, In A Silent Way. The title track is probably the most identified piece, part of the reason why is because it's the longest (27 minutes). Many parts of the song have a gradual change that is very subtle, which you don't realize until it happens. There is tension and release throughout, and the theme from the start is repeated at the end. This is music for musicians, but that doesn't mean a casual listener can't enjoy it as well.

This record is far removed from the type of modal Jazz presented on Kind Of Blue, and other earlier Miles Davis records. As noisy and abrasive as it may seem, Bitches Brew is an essential part of any music fan's collection, whether or not they like Jazz or Jazz Fusion. This is it, the best of the best, the cream of the crop.