Customer Reviews

Miles Davis, Miles Smiles, and the Invention of Post Bop

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(1)

 

 

Written by music professor Jeremy Yudkin, Miles Davis, Miles Smiles, and the Invention of Post Bop is a thoughtful exploration of jazz sensation Miles Davis' contribution to music of the mid-1960s, with an especial focus upon the evolution of the new style of "post bop". From the story of trumpeter Davis' life and creative works, to his confrontation of both personal and musical problems, to his legacy for future generations, Miles Davis, Miles Smiles and the Invention of Post Bop leaves no stone unturned. Occasional passages of musical notation intersperse this thoughtful commentary, rounded out by extensive notes. Highly recommended especially for American music history and college music studies shelves.

i have a mixed opinion of this, first of all, over half the book is a rehash of any of the miles biographies. however, the indepth analysis of the album miles smiles, is worth the price of the book. i enjoyed the ins and outs of the making of it, and the thoughts of contemporaries at the time. each track is thoroughly broken down and explained, even though some of the technical musical theory talk is over my head.[i do have a basic understanding] so my only way to really under stand 3/4 time is to compare it to other songs in 3/4. but im willing to learn. 4 stars not five for the biographical rehash, but at the discounted price well worth it.and if you havent read a davis biography , its even better .

Mr. Yudkin utilizes way too many opinions presented as facts in support of his thesis here. In addition, this book is another unfortunate example of pseudo-scholastic language used in an attempt (however well intentioned) to "legitimize" music that can stand on its own merits without any such assistance.

Instead of buying this book, buy the "Four And More" & "My Funny Valentine" albums by Miles Davis to hear magnificent music that Mr. Yudkin dismisses in an incredibly unknowing and snobbish manner.