There is really no need to describe this classic date. I consider this date an essential listening experience. This date defines Modern Jazz in a way that no other does. It is also a tradition on The Jazz Show as this is the last show of 2012 and the show closest to Christmas. This date was recorded on Christmas Eve 1954 and although it's not stated in the music the SPIRIT of Christmas is here. The players are the nominal leader, trumpeter and Jazz icon Miles Davis. In 1954 he was emerging from a dark period in his life and beginning to really assert his importance as a major Jazz figure. Milt Jackson is so consistent in his solos on vibes and the spice of the session is the piano of Thelonious Monk. Monk was not Davis' choice but the choice of the record label owner Bob Weinstock......and it was a great move as it's Monk's solos that put the edge on the music. Percy Heath on bass and Kenny Clarke were the rhythm section for the Modern Jazz Quartet and Miles Davis' first choice. This date is Jazz history and will be heard as long as Jazz is alive in this world. Some of the book on jazz was written here. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and I look forward to presenting music for you in 2013.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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