Birth of the Cool — 1957

The recordings that codified cool jazz, trading bebop's heat for relaxed, arranged elegance with a nonet. Their influence on West Coast jazz was immense. Restrained, sophisticated and historically pivotal. Not the headline release, but a genuine highlight.

On vinyl: Original mono pressings from this era are sought-after; a quality reissue is the practical choice for most listeners.

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More from Miles Davis — where to go next

If you have Birth of the Cool, these are the Miles Davis records worth reaching for next.

1. 1
   On the Corner1972 · Jazz
   Start here
2. 2
   Birth of the Cool1957 · you're viewing this one
   Essential
3. 3
   Milestones1958 · Jazz
   Essential
4. 4
   Kind of Blue1959 · Jazz
   Essential
5. 5
   Miles Smiles1967 · Jazz
   Essential

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