The jazz sound of Miles Davis takes a captivating turn with the album Sketches of Spain, released in July of 1960. An album of the cool, jazz instrument and trumpet jazz styles, the album was recorded from November 15th to November 20th, 1959 in New York City, New York. Imbued with classical and folk feeling coupled with flamenco percussion, there’s so much art to this album that I cannot help but recommend that you listen.
Concierto de Aranjuez (Adagio) was reportedly about the gardens at the royal palace in Aranjuez, Spain.
Will O’ the Wisp feels playful and cool in styling. The song is drawn from a ballet by Spanish composer Manuel de Falla.
The Pan Piper strikes a mysterious yet uplifting, joyful tone. Invoking magical feelings to my listening, the arrangement is lovely.
Saeta feels first somber then disciplined. I find Davis‘ solo within the song stunning and hypnotic. The song is inspired by a song sung mostly during Christian Holy Week in Spain.
Solea is a form of flamenco music. The Gil Evans arrangement was simply amazing. Evans was from Canada.
Musicians playing on this album include Danny Bank aka Danny Banks, Billy Barber, John Barrows, Al Block aka Albert Block, James Buffington, Eddie Caine, Paul Chambers, Earl Chapin, Jimmy Cleveland, Jimmy Cobb, Johnny Coles, Harold Feldman, Bernie Glow, Dick Hixon, Elvin Jones, Taft Jordan, Jack Knitzer, Jose Mangual, Jimmy McAllister, Tony Miranda, Louis Mucci, Romeo Penque, Janet Putnam, Frank Rehak, Ernie Royal and Joe Singer.
Matt – Saturday, July 8, 2023
Matt Lynn Digital 