Miles Davis’ first classic quintet was formed in 1955and is widely regarded as one of the greatest combosin jazz history. Steamin’ was the fourth and last in aseries of four albums featuring the group recordedbetween May and October of 1956. Although thereare no original tunes on this LP, it gives ample proofof Miles’ and the group’s ability to transform anytune into their own. According to reviewer LindsayPlaner, “‘Surrey with the Fringe on Top’ is passedbetween the mates like an old joke. There are twowell-placed nods to fellow bop pioneers CharlieParker and Dizzy Gillespie on a revision of their‘Salt Peanuts’. Philly Joe Jones’ mimicking cymbalspeak – which replicates Gillespie’s original vocals– is nothing short of genius.” Two tunes from thefirst Prestige LP by the quintet have been added asa bonus. “The Theme” would be recorded again intwo shorter versions in 1956 for the LP Workin’.

MILES DAVIS, trumpetJOHN COLTRANE, tenor saxophoneRED GARLAND, pianoPAUL CHAMBERS, bassPHILLY JOE JONES, drumsHackensack, New Jersey, May 11, 1956& October 26, 1956 (B2 only).Original sessions produced by Bob Weinstock &recorded by Rudy Van Gelder.*BONUS TRACKS:Same personnel. Coltrane out on A4.Hackensack, New Jersey, November 16, 1955.From the LP The New Miles Davis Quintet (Prestige LP7014).

• 1. Surrey With the Fringe On Top
• 2. Salt Peanuts
• 3. Something I Dreamed Last Night
• 4. There is No Greater Love
• 5. Diane
• 6. Well You Needn't
• 7. When I Fall In Love
• 8. The Theme