Miles Davis - Workin' (LP)

"Workin' with the Miles Davis Quintet" is a seminal jazz album recorded by the legendary trumpeter Miles Davis and his first great quintet, which included John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums. Released in 1959, the album is part of a series of four albums that were recorded in two marathon sessions in 1956 for Prestige Records, the others being "Relaxin'", "Steamin'", and "Cookin'". These sessions were intended to fulfill Davis's contractual obligations to Prestige before he moved to Columbia Records.

"Workin'" captures the quintet at a pivotal moment in jazz history, showcasing their ability to blend hard bop with modal jazz elements, which Davis would later explore more fully in his groundbreaking album "Kind of Blue". The album features a mix of standards and original compositions, highlighting the group's improvisational prowess and cohesive interplay. The chemistry between Davis and Coltrane is particularly noteworthy, as their contrasting styles create a dynamic tension that propels the music forward.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "It Never Entered My Mind", a ballad that features Davis's muted trumpet delivering a hauntingly beautiful melody. The track exemplifies Davis's ability to convey deep emotion with a minimalist approach, allowing the listener to savor each note. Another highlight is "Four", a composition attributed to Davis, though some sources suggest it was written by Eddie Vinson. The track is a showcase for the quintet's tight ensemble playing and features a memorable solo by Coltrane.

"Workin'" also includes "Trane's Blues", a piece that highlights Coltrane's innovative approach to improvisation. His solo on this track is a precursor to the "sheets of sound" technique he would later develop, characterized by rapid runs and complex harmonic structures. The rhythm section of Garland, Chambers, and Jones provides a solid foundation throughout the album, with each musician contributing to the overall sound with their distinctive styles.

Critically, "Workin'" has been praised for its spontaneity and the high level of musicianship displayed by the quintet. The album is often cited as one of the essential recordings in Davis's discography and a key example of the hard bop style. It has been included in numerous "best of" lists and continues to be a favorite among jazz enthusiasts.

The historical significance of "Workin'" lies in its representation of a transitional period in jazz, where the genre was moving away from the bebop style of the 1940s and embracing new forms of expression. The album captures the quintet's ability to push the boundaries of jazz while remaining rooted in its traditions. This balance of innovation and tradition is a hallmark of Davis's career and is evident throughout "Workin'".

In terms of cultural impact, "Workin'" and the other albums from the Prestige sessions helped solidify Davis's reputation as a leading figure in jazz. The recordings also contributed to the rise of John Coltrane as a major force in the genre, setting the stage for his later work as a bandleader and innovator.

Overall, "Workin' with the Miles Davis Quintet" is a masterful album that captures a moment of creative synergy between some of the most talented musicians in jazz history. Its enduring appeal lies in the timeless quality of the performances and the way it encapsulates the spirit of an era that was both reflective and forward-looking. For anyone interested in the evolution of jazz, "Workin'" is an essential listen that continues to inspire and captivate listeners more than six decades after its release.