Everything’s Beautiful
The Recordings of Miles Davis Reimagined by Robert Glasper
Columbia/Legacy, 2016
Miles Davis was legendarily fearless. Never one to repeat himself artistically, neither for money or popularity, once he had done something, he just moved forward, on to the next thing. Robert Glasper, a young, hip Grammy winning Image may be NSFW.
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jazz pianist, has the audacity to use Davis mindset as his own guiding light. Glasper works in classical piano opposite hip hop break beats, tackles traditional jazz numbers and just because he can, has recorded “Smells Like Teen Spirit” in his own unique vision.
With the blessing of both the Davis Estate and Columbia, Glasper has re-imagined several Davis recordings for the most recent bio-pic featuring Don Cheadle, “Miles Ahead.” Glasper has produced a provocative album featuring an impressive list of legendary artists. Stevie Wonder, John Scofield, Erykah Badu, Bila, and many others add their considerable talents.
“Violets” features Phonte Coleman rapping over Bill Evans famous piano riff from “Blue in Green.” A previously unreleased version of the song is used. “Ghetto Walkin’,” which features the sleek, tempting vocals of Bilal, is based on “The Ghetto Walk.” With a purposeful funk and confident stride, “I’m Leaving You” featuring the vocals of Ledisi, and John Scofield ‘s great guitar work, flaunts its sudden declaration of independence.
“Doo Bop” was the the last album Davis worked on, passing away before it was completed. It featured several rappers and the addition of sequencers and drum machines. So for his music to take a step in this direction isn’t as unexpected as one might think.
Both men completely embraced the freedom jazz afforded them. Miles, currently unable to produce anything new, left over 60 albums in his catalog. Several of them seminal, game changing, earth shatteringly important recordings. Glasper, who works tirelessly, continues to evolve before our eyes into a fascinating artist, one who is forever moving forward, self assured and unafraid. Each is well suited to the other and this recording is testament to the talent of all involved.
