Betty Davis: The Columbia Years 1968-1969 Vinyl LP Betty Davis

Unreleased material from the original bad gal! The good folks at Light In The Attic have really outdone themselves this time by blessing us with these mythical Betty Davis sessions on wax for the first time on The Columbia Years 1968-1969. Of the sessions featured here, most notable is the landmark, never-before-heard collaboration with her then-husband Miles Davis and Teo Macero, recorded in 1969 alongside legendary jazz players including Herbie Hancock on keys, Wayne Shorter on sax, John McLaughlin on guitar, and Mitch Mitchell on drums (from the Jimi Hendrix band). The raw energy and forward-thinking vibe blends rock, jazz, funk, and psychedelia way before jazz fusion was a thing, ultimately influencing Miles Davis for years to come (most notably on Bitches Brew). It’s mind-blowing that such an important recording would go unheard for almost half a century, but big up to LITA for finally giving it a proper release along with sessions done in LA alongside Hugh Masekela and members of the Crusaders, and all with Betty’s full support. Comes complete with fully remastered sound from original analog master tapes, and full color booklet including rare documents from co-producer Teo Macero, rarely seen photos from legendary photographer Baron Wolman, and new interviews with Harvey Brooks, Hugh Masekela, and Mrs. Davis herself. Recommended.

• includes previously unreleased sessions 
• produced by Miles Davis & Ted Macero
• remastered from the original analog master tapes
• booklet features new interviews, rare photos, and unseen historical documents from the Ted Macero archive
• music label: Light in the Attic 2016

reviewed by neck cork 06/2016