'Round About Midnight

Miles Davis' 'Round About Midnight, released on March 18, 1957, is a seminal work in the jazz genre, showcasing the masterful interplay between Davis and his legendary quintet featuring John Coltrane, Red Garland, Paul Chambers, and Philly Joe Jones. This album is a cornerstone of cool jazz and hard bop, blending the sophistication of bebop with the relaxed grooves of cool jazz, all while hinting at the innovative directions Davis would explore in the future.

The album opens with the title track, 'Round Midnight, a classic that has become a jazz standard, followed by a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations of well-known tunes. Tracks like 'Ah-Leu-Cha' and 'Tadd's Delight' highlight the band's virtuosity and improvisational skills, while standards like 'Bye Bye Blackbird' and 'All of You' showcase Davis' ability to infuse new life into familiar melodies.

The live tracks recorded at the Newport Jazz Festival and Pasadena Civic Auditorium add an electrifying energy to the album, capturing the quintet in their prime. These performances, including 'Round Midnight with Thelonious Monk and other jazz greats, offer a glimpse into the dynamic and spontaneous nature of live jazz.

With a runtime of 1 hour and 36 minutes, 'Round About Midnight is a rich and varied collection that demonstrates Miles Davis' genius and his enduring influence on jazz. Recorded under Columbia/Legacy, this album is a testament to the power of collaboration and the timeless appeal of jazz.