The award-winning producer/composer/keyboardist/synthesizer arranger
Jason Miles pays tribute to one of his major influences, the legendary trumpeter
Miles Davis. With
Miles to Miles a 12-track disc featuring symbolic titles that recognize some of
Davis' exquisite tastes,
Jason Miles has created a masterful musical program that is resplendent with both the spirit and creative vibe of the legendary trumpeter.
Jason Miles' masterful programming and synth arrangements expand the musical ideas into an otherworldly realm that was unheard of during
Davis' modal period and reign with arranger/orchestrator
Gil Evans in the late '50s and early '60s. The songs here are truly 21st century concepts. The set opens with "Ferrari," a reference to
Davis' red motorcar and the high-speed drive that the two musicians took up the Pacific coast. The energetic rhythms capture this trip's velocity as saxophonist
Michael Brecker adds an angular melody line over the electronic funk.
DJ Logic's turntables add extra dimensions and colors. "Butter Pecan" is a take on the trumpeter's love of butter pecan ice cream. This track is great and features an overdubbed sax section played by
Gerald Albright and a solo by
Adam Holtzman. One of the brightest spots on this amazing recording is "Flamenco Sketches,"the Spanish-influenced song from
Davis' classic 1959 album titled
Kind of Blue. With updated lyrics and instrumental stylings written to the melodies of
Davis' and
John Coltrane's original solos, and guest appearances from pianist
Keiko Matsui and guitarist
Marc Antoine, this song comes alive with the beauty and spirit of
Davis' genius.
Miles to Miles was inspired by the first time
Jason Miles ever met
Miles Davis, who sketched a little stick figure on a note pad and autographed it "
Miles to Miles" with a little trumpet. With the addition of some of contemporary jazz's most in-demand musicians, these 12 musical stories tell a tale of their creativity, inspiration, and friendship, and aptly demonstrate
Jason Miles' capabilities as a true innovator. ~ Paula Edelstein