CiTR

Tonight's Jazz Feature is an ad-hoc session that Miles Davis did just before he formed his first great quintet. in the Fall of 1955. Miles selected some players that he knew and liked. Milt Jackson, the premier vibist in Modern Jazz was one of them, Jackie McLean was invited and brought along two new compositions to record at Miles' request. Ray Bryant was selected on piano. He was new to New York and beginning to make waves. Bassist Percy Heath was a long standing associate of Miles as was drummer Arthur Taylor. Two Jackie McLean compositions ("Dr.Jackle" & "Minor March") were recorded then without McLean two more tunes were done. The first was a complex composition by trumpeter Thad Jones called "Bitty Ditty" and the second was a Ray Bryant creation entitled "Changes". All in all a wonderful session with everyone in inspired form. The only drawback is that it is a short album lasting just over 1/2 hour. In the old showbiz saying "leave 'em wanting more". Miles Davis and Milt Jackson and company....tonight's Jazz Feature.