Bitches Brew Review: Jazz Plugs In
9/10 — Miles Davis - Bitches Brew (1970)
Pros
- Daring fusion of jazz and rock
- Superb musicians
- Hypnotic grooves
Cons
- Sprawling
- Demanding
Bitches Brew was recorded in three days with a large ensemble including Wayne Shorter, Chick Corea and John McLaughlin. Producer Teo Macero edited long jam sessions into the finished tracks.
What works
The grooves are deep and hypnotic, with two drummers, electric pianos and bass clarinet, and ‘Pharaoh’s Dance’ and the title track are thrilling. The album opened jazz fusion and reached a young rock audience.
Where it falters
The long, sprawling pieces can be hard going, and it’s less accessible than Kind of Blue.
Verdict
A bold, pioneering and demanding classic.
