Miles Davis – Bags Groove (mono) – Analogue Productions 180 Gram Vinyl Record

Indeed, Davis’ choice of former Dizzy Gillespie Orchestra and concurrent Modern Jazz Quartet members Milt Jackson (vibes), Kenny Clarke (drums), and Percy Heath (bass) is obviously well-informed. This combo became synonymous with the ability to tastefully improvise and provide bluesy bop lines in varied settings. The up-tempo and Latin-infused syncopation featured during the opening of “Airegin” flows into lines and minor-chord phrasings that would reappear several years later throughout Davis’ Sketches of Spain epic. The fun and slightly maniacally toned “Oleo” features one of Heath’s most impressive displays on Bags’ Groove. His staccato accompaniment exhibits the effortless nature with which these jazz giants are able to incorporate round after round of solos onto the larger unit. Bags’ Groove belongs as a cornerstone of all jazz collections.

Originally released in 1957

Musicians

Miles Davis, trumpet
Sonny Rollins, tenor saxophone
Milt Jackson, vibraphone
Thelonious Monk, piano
Horace Silver, piano
Percy Heath, bass
Kenny Clarke, drums