2LP - 180g Virgin Black Vinyl housed in a Gatefold Sleeve.
As is the case for all of the ‘Jazz at Berlin Philharmonic’ concerts, the line-up was a complete one-off. The first part of the programme focused on highlights from recordings by Miles Davis’ band, whereas in the second, members of the Berlin Philharmonic joined the Theo Croker Quartet on stage to perform three suites from the orchestral albums, ‘Miles Ahead’, ‘Porgy and Bess’ and ‘Sketches of Spain’. The arrangements were especially commissioned for the concert.
To take on the role of trumpeter in a Miles Davis tribute could be an unnerving experience, but not so for Theo Croker, who is consistently impressive. Born in Florida in 1985, he is now one of the most respected jazz musicians of his generation. The Süddeutsche Zeitung called him a “visionary of post- hiphop jazz” and praised his “accomplished grasp of the entire history of African-American music.”
Croker has many of the Miles Davis hallmarks, and the band behind him is excellent too: pianist Danny Grissett has been in Tom Harrell’s band since 2006, and also released six highly acclaimed albums as leader. Bassist Joshua Ginsburg has been a fixture on the New York jazz scene for almost two decades. Finally, 51-year-old Gregory Hutchinson, “the drummer of his generation” (Jazz Magazine), has played with almost all the greats of jazz.
The members of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside their regular work as the ‘world’s greatest orchestra’, are always prepared to step into small ensemble combinations and to throw their energies into new musical adventures. Under Magnus Lindgren’s direction, and with the Theo Croker Quartet, we hear a resoundingly ‘symphonic’ Miles Davis. The Swede has developed a speciality of jazz-meets-classical projects. He recently delved into the works of another of the greats of jazz: in ‘Bird Lives’ with the SWR Big Band and John Beasley, he marked the Charlie Parker centenary. Here, in collaboration with his compatriot Hans Ek, best known as the creator of the E.S.T. Symphony, he excelled again in the role of arranger.
Sketches of Miles was an evening which will echo and resonate for a long time. The Theo Croker Quartet, together with members of the Berlin Philharmonic and Magnus Lindgren, didn’t only walk in the footsteps of a genius, they also left their own indelible imprint.
Tracklist:
LP 1:
1. Pinocchio / Milestones
2. Footprints
3. My Funny Valentine
4. So What
LP 2:
1. Miles Ahead Suite
2. Sketches of Spain Suite
3. Porgy and Bess Suite