Listen up. “Filles de Kilimanjaro” is a jazz album by the legendary Miles Davis that dropped in 1968. This record was a game-changer for Mr. Davis, as he incorporated elements of rock and African music into his signature jazz sound. But let’s be real here, the real MVP of this album was saxophonist Wayne Shorter. Shorter joined Davis’ band in ’64 and became a key collaborator on many of his albums, including “Filles de Kilimanjaro.” The man composed three out of five tracks on this record, showcasing his unique style characterized by complex harmonies and unconventional song structures.

Now, let’s talk about the other two Davis originals that incorporated elements of African music. And let me tell you, the lineup of musicians on this album was straight-up fire. We’re talking Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass, and Tony Williams on drums. These guys provided a tight, cohesive foundation for Davis and Shorter to take their exploratory solos to the next level. Overall, “Filles de Kilimanjaro” was a pivotal moment in Davis’ career, marking the beginning of his exploration into fusion and world music.

But let’s not forget who the real star of the show was – Wayne freaking Shorter. His contributions were instrumental in shaping this new direction for Davis, and this album remains a testament to his innovative approach to composition and improvisation. Listen up again!

Stefan Mohr