Miles Davis: My Funny Valentine (2005)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: February 17, 2005

Many have tried to copy Miles Davis, but no one can measure up to the kind of performances that he gave us when he was in his prime and led the mainstream. This concert from February 12, 1964 at Lincoln Center's Philharmonic Hall in New York ranks among the best. With George Coleman, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter and Tony Williams, he expressed the deep affection that we all feel in our hearts when romance is the subject.

Davis presents a charming interpretation of each song, allowing plenty of space for solos. His fascination with a dreamy quality in the music allows things to flow passionately. Coleman and Hancock follow with swinging responses, while Carter and Williams provide a firm foundation with agreeable variations in texture and mood. Near the end of the session, the bassist stretches out with a delectable solo interpretation of "I Thought About You."

Columbia has included both the album's original liner notes and an updated essay by Carter with recollections of the event. Photos from the performance and from the period follow, with the music serving as a centerpiece. With the CD's exquisite sound reproduction, you can enjoy every nuance.

Carter mentions that Davis' four partners didn't know that they were being recorded. As it turned out, that didn't really matter. Each played at his best, and the concert became a landmark event in jazz history.

Track Listing: My Funny Valentine; All Of You; Stella by Starlight; All Blues; I Thought About You

Personnel: Miles Davis (trumpet); George Coleman (tenor saxophone); Herbie Hancock (piano); Ron Carter (bass); Tony Williams (drums)

Record Label: Sony BMG Legacy
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream