1001 Albums Summary

Not their best album, not their deepest album, but one of their most vital. Artistically: very good. Historically: massive (it’s said to be) Pure listening pleasure: still high.

Not “important” because people say it is, but because it still works immediately. Artistically, very strong within its lane. Historically, bigger than people sometimes admit.

Not their most sophisticated record, but arguably their most overwhelming. Artistically, savage and brilliant. Historically, absolutely deserved classic status. Pure listening pleasure, massive, provided you want impact over elegance.

Not Miles at his most profound, but Miles at one of his most historically decisive moments. Artistically elegant, smart, beautifully constructed. Inspiring, especially once you stop demanding drama from it and let it work on its own terms.

It captures a specific kind of modern fame sickness better than almost anything from its period. It is grandiose, ugly, seductive, wounded, and manipulative. It wants your admiration while confessing why it may not deserve it.

My verdict: not their biggest album, but one of their most important. Artistically: sharp, dark, confident. Historically: a major turning point. Pure listening pleasure: very high, especially if you like your rock with dirt under its nails.