The Miles Davis Reader
Downbeat

“Popsie” NY-Popular Music through the lens of William “Popsie” Randolph
Hal Leonard

Jazz: An Introduction to The History and Legends Behind America’s Music
Bob Blumenthal
Smithsonian
By George W. Harris

Three delightful and disparate books have been published recently, each deserving a reading in their own right.

“The Miles Davis Reader” is a collection of everything about Miles Davis, covers included, that has ever graced Downbeat magazine, from interviews and news reports, to reviews of issues and reissues. While some of the reviews and articles are a bit repetitive (since they tend to feed off of previous writings), the vast majority of interviews are compelling and always informative. It is fascinating to observe the evolution of Miles’ ascendancy from sideman to superstar to icon in the matter of 350 pages. Reading about his career in this perspective also gives some insight as to the specific peaks and valleys of his career. The Gil Evans and “Birth of The Cool” sessions were what essentially established his credentials as a major jazz figure. The reaction to his “retirement” and “return” as well as his arrest and mafia-style shooting episode all make for fascinating and compelling reading. A must for any jazz fan.

“Popsie” Randolph was a photographer who captured some of the most important musical stars from the 40s to the early 70s. This book collects some of his greatest work, and is a feast for the eyes. Divided by decades, it takes the reader from posed pictures of Johnny Otis and the Beatles to casual encounters between Max Roach and Lester Young. A 1953 pic of Charlie Parker sitting in with Lionel Hampton is an undiscovered treat.Most fascinating are a couple of in concert 1966 photos featuring Percy Sledge and King Curtis having a soulful time on stage with a left handed guitarist named Jimi Hendrix thoroughly enjoying the moment. Some of the pop and rock star photos would make a great quiz section on “Trivial Pursuit”. Would you be able to identify The Association? Lots of fun on these pages.

Blumenthal’s “Jazz” is a perfect intro to someone who may be wanting to figure what all of the names and album titles mean. Well divided into decades and eras, with a page full of recommended discs for each genre, “Jazz” is extremely reader friendly in that there are plenty of side bars with interesting historical facts interspersed with general musical directions. Filled with photos rarely seen before, it sheds some interesting perspective on the past 20 years of jazz, post ipod. Well conceived and delivered, it should be given to a friend that is just testing the jazz waters.