Kind of Blue cover

Kind of Blue

Miles Davis · 1959

45 min · 5 tracks · jazz fusion · bebop · hard bop

A serene exploration of modal jazz, where improvisation unfolds over lush harmonic landscapes.

Why listen to this

Best for
serene soundscapes for relaxation steady improvisation inviting reflection for evening wind-down
Context
When 'Kind of Blue' was released in August 1959, Miles Davis was transitioning from the hard bop style that characterized his earlier work. This album followed the critically acclaimed 'Sketches of Spain' and marked a significant shift towards modal jazz, showcasing a new approach to improvisation that would influence countless musicians.
If you like
jazz fusion, bebop, hard bop
What next
Sketches of Spain — Continues the exploration of modal jazz with rich orchestral textures.

Kind of Blue is an album by Miles Davis, released in 1959. A serene exploration of modal jazz, where improvisation unfolds over lush harmonic landscapes. 'Kind of Blue' is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz albums of all time, topping numerous critic lists and achieving iconic status. It has influenced a myriad of genres beyond jazz, impacting musicians such as John Coltrane and influencing the development of modal jazz as a significant movement in music history. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Kind of Blue sound like?

A serene exploration of modal jazz, where improvisation unfolds over lush harmonic landscapes. Rooted in jazz fusion and bebop. Start with "So What".

Is Kind of Blue a good place to start with Miles Davis?

Yes, Kind of Blue is recommended as a starting point for new Miles Davis listeners. A serene exploration of modal jazz, where improvisation unfolds over lush harmonic landscapes. When 'Kind of Blue' was released in August 1959, Miles Davis was transitioning from the hard bop style that characterized his earlier work. This album followed the critically acclaimed 'Sketches of Spain' and marked a significant shift towards modal jazz, showcasing a new approach to improvisation that would influence countless musicians.

Who is Kind of Blue for?

Kind of Blue works well if you're into serene soundscapes for relaxation, steady improvisation inviting reflection and for evening wind-down.

How many songs are on Kind of Blue?

Kind of Blue has 5 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Tracklist

5 tracks·45:08

New here? Start with So What.

  • 1 So What Start here 9:05
  • 2 Freddie Freeloader Standout 9:35
  • 3 Blue in Green 5:28
  • 4 All Blues Standout 11:33
  • 5 Flamenco Sketches 9:24

Release Date

August 17, 1959

Genre

bebop, hard bop, jazz fusion

More albums in hard bop

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

45 min 8 sec