Miles Davis - All Stars Recordings (2000)

This CD is a compilation of some of Miles Davis's earliest recordings as a sideman from the late 1940s. His formative years are represented here in a large group setting. The groups featured here are scaled down or actual big bands. This CD is probably most dominated by the arrangements of Tadd Dameron, arguably the definitive arranger-composer of the bop era.

The first date is a legendary session with Dameron's nonet, featuring some wonderful singing on "What's New" and "Heaven's Doors Are Wide Open" by Kay Penton. Then there's a date with tenor icon Coleman Hawkins, where Davis solos on "Dean-A-Re-Bop." While it's short, his imaginative approach hints at his rapid progress as an improviser. The next four cuts are by Illinois Jacquet's Big Band, and the remaining tracks come via live broadcasts from clubs such as the Royal Roost and Birdland.~All Stars Recordings Review by AllMusic