5. Spanish Key Miles Davis’s release of Bitches Brew in 1970 shocked the jazz wo

5. Spanish Key
Miles Davis’s release of Bitches Brew in 1970 shocked the jazz wo

5. Spanish Key
Miles Davis’s release of Bitches Brew in 1970 shocked the jazz world. It (seemingly) came out of left field … though there were a few hints as to what Miles and his band were up to for those paying really close attention. This is a wild album. It sounds like (almost) nothing before it!
In this section of Listening Log, I just want you to listen to one of Bitches Brew’s tracks, start to finish. It’s a trip for sure!
As you listen, try to remember the things you noticed in “Masqualero;” do you notice any at all similar in this example? Can you hear anything that seems to be “tying” the performance together. (This is not free jazz. There is a form/structure involved … it’s just not super obvious.)
What stands out to you about this performance?
What thoughts come to mind as you listen? Is this exciting? Interesting? Bewildering?