BITCHES BREW

Before I begin, let me say this absolutely is a five-star recording. If not for the lineup, then for the state-of- the-art production techniques used back in 1969. Those were progressive in their own right!

Bitches Brew is Miles Davis' first record that has the fusion feel. Sure, there were others (many argue it all started on In a Silent Way; I'll argue against that!), but BB is where it really culminated both sonically and aesthetically. The cover art alone is inspiring and indicative of "directions in music" - which is an accurate preface for this monstrous work of art.

Fans of classic beepop and freebop will be disappointed with this one, however, as it's essentially abstract art in sound. There is little difference between BB and a Picasso, Dali, or Chirico surrealist painting. In fact, the two are perfectly paired. What this means stylistically for the average listener is "I just hear jamming/noise/directionless crap".

This couldn't be further from the truth!

Miles and co masterfully weave leads and melodies over some of the best vamps ever heard on any fusion recording...ever.

Others will give a track by track analysis. I'll just talk about one track - the most important, in my estimation: the title track itself.

Bitches Brew (title track) is my favorite. It's absolutely haunting. Try to count out the bass line in the intro; it will get you every single time. The movements here are spot on. The atmosphere captured here is unparalleled. The first time I heard it, it clicked immediately, and hasn't let go. Timeless is an understatement.

Do yourself a favor and procure a physical copy of this recording. Whether compact disc of vinyl (ideally both), you'll not be disappointed. While slightly more jarring than your average jazz recording, it could take some getting used to. You won't regret the relationship you form with Bitches Brew. Get on with it!