add to wish list | library


9 of 9 recommend this,
would you recommend it?

yes | no

Support this site by purchasing from these vendors using the paid links below. As an Amazon Associate SA-CD.net earns from qualifying purchases.
 
amazon.ca
amazon.co.uk
amazon.com
amazon.de
 
amazon.fr
amazon.it
CDJapan
 

Reviews: Miles Davis: Sorcerer

Reviews: 3

Review by JW July 29, 2003 (4 of 4 found this review helpful)
Performance:   Sonics:
The actress Cicely Tyson graces the cover of the second album from the second Miles Davis quintet. She became his wife in 1981. This album is part of Miles' acoustic period. Tip to prospective listeners: Stop the album once you reached the end of 'Vonetta'! The closing track has a terrible vocal by Bob Dorough, a similarly non distinct voice as John Pizzarelli's. Best to avoid :-)

"Sorcerer" is not as easy to get in to as "My Funny Valentine" or "Round About Midnight" so for those of you looking to start with Miles Davis I would recommend starting elsewhere. This album does move away from the more mainstream efforts of his earlier work. It's complicated jazz with many different layers, tempo changes and improvisations. Having said that, it's not free-jazz or even as wildly unpredictable as Miles' later fusion work on for instance "Bitches Brew" and albums in a similar vein. I think that "Sorcerer" is one of those albums that will grow on you over time. The solo's always return to a main theme ('Prince of Darkness') and provide for many an interesting detour.

Tony Williams' drumming stands out on this album. It's almost 'Monk-like' in its angularity and counter rhythmic drive. But it's not dissonant in the negative sense. This characteristic is not displayed on every track. Wonderfully floating ballads such as 'Pee Wee' receive a more traditional treatment. Before I bought this album I read many times that people found this to be moody and dark. Well, moody maybe, dark not so in my view. Look, it's not a happy album (go and buy "Soular Energy" or "Know What I Mean" if you're after that) but I associate something else with dark. There is too much upbeat ('Sorcerer') and melodic rhythmn ('Masqualero') present to darken your moods. If you will, the word 'contemplative' is probably a better one. It's also a 'strong' album. The facial expression on the album cover is as such very appropriate.

The sonic quality of these JSACD's is outstanding. All audiophile attributes apply so I am not even going to mention them anymore (I have done so in my other Miles Davis reviews).

Jw

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no

Review by TEE August 24, 2004 (2 of 2 found this review helpful)
Performance:   Sonics:
This album is less easy to listen to than "Nefertiti", but it is interesting too. Miles explore his freedom - differently. Sound quality is almost oustanding - the bass and drums are excellent.

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no

Review by DeSelby May 15, 2005 (2 of 6 found this review helpful)
Sonics:
stereo sonics: very good sound

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no