The Miles Davis Quintet - Steamin' (LP) - Red Vinyl

"Steamin' with the Miles Davis Quintet" is a seminal jazz album recorded in 1956 and released in 1961. It is one of four albums that resulted from two marathon recording sessions in 1956, the others being "Cookin'", "Relaxin'", and "Workin'". These sessions were intended to fulfill Davis's contractual obligations to Prestige Records before he moved on to Columbia Records. Despite the rushed nature of the recordings, the albums are considered masterpieces of jazz, showcasing the quintet's extraordinary synergy and improvisational prowess.

The quintet at the time consisted of Miles Davis on trumpet, John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums. This lineup is often referred to as the "First Great Quintet" and is celebrated for its innovative approach to jazz, blending hard bop with modal jazz elements. "Steamin'" captures the quintet at a peak moment, delivering performances that are both technically brilliant and emotionally compelling.

One of the standout tracks on "Steamin'" is "Surrey with the Fringe on Top", a Rodgers and Hammerstein tune from the musical "Oklahoma!". The quintet transforms this Broadway number into a swinging jazz piece, with Davis's muted trumpet leading the way. The track exemplifies the quintet's ability to take popular songs and infuse them with new life through jazz improvisation.

Another highlight is "Salt Peanuts", a Dizzy Gillespie composition that showcases the quintet's bebop roots. The track is fast-paced and energetic, with Coltrane and Davis trading rapid-fire solos. Philly Joe Jones's drumming is particularly noteworthy here, driving the band with relentless energy and precision.

"Something I Dreamed Last Night" offers a contrast with its slower, more contemplative mood. Davis's trumpet playing is lyrical and expressive, demonstrating his mastery of ballad interpretation. Red Garland's piano accompaniment is delicate and supportive, creating a lush harmonic backdrop for Davis's solo.

The album also includes "Diane", a lesser-known ballad that features a beautiful interplay between Davis and Coltrane. The quintet's ability to communicate and respond to each other in real-time is evident throughout the track, highlighting their exceptional musical chemistry.

"Steamin'" was well-received by critics and jazz enthusiasts alike. It is often praised for its relaxed yet focused performances, capturing the quintet's ability to balance structure with spontaneity. The album, along with its companion pieces, helped solidify Miles Davis's reputation as a leading figure in jazz and contributed to the growing popularity of the genre in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The historical significance of "Steamin'" and the other albums from these sessions lies in their documentation of a pivotal moment in jazz history. They capture the transition from the bebop era to the more exploratory and modal approaches that Davis would later pursue. The recordings also mark an important period in the careers of the quintet members, particularly John Coltrane, who would go on to become one of the most influential saxophonists in jazz history.

In summary, "Steamin' with the Miles Davis Quintet" is a classic jazz album that continues to be celebrated for its artistry and innovation. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Miles Davis and his collaborators, offering listeners a glimpse into the creative process of one of the greatest jazz ensembles of all time. Whether you're a longtime jazz aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, "Steamin'" is an essential listen that captures the essence of jazz at its finest.