AMG Review of Beautiful Ballads & Love Songs

Michael G. Nastos
All Music Guide

There's certainly nothing unusual or unique about a Columbia Records compilation of Miles Davis interpreting ballads and love songs -- it's been done before, and on other labels, too. The thing is, Miles was extraordinary at this aspect of mainstream modern jazz to the point where it nearly became his signature during the late '50s to mid-60s. As there is a definite audience for this kind of music, you can hardly go wrong with the style, the selection of tunes, and especially the musicianship. Of the 12 tracks there are no clunkers, but among the most outstanding all-time classics are "'Round Midnight," "My Ship," two selections from Porgy and Bess, and "My Funny Valentine." This is a good thing you could rarely get enough of. The setting of a crackling fireplace, a vintage bottle of wine, and a significant other can't help but be enhanced by this well programmed collection of standards from the master of melted hearts.