Four Miles

by Scott YanowDespite the CD's title, most of the music on this date does not have any close connection to Miles Davis; in fact five of the ten songs were not even recorded by Davis. In addition, trumpeter Randy Brecker, who joins the Andy Laverne Trio (which is comprised of pianist Laverne, bassist George Mraz and drummer Al Foster) sounds closer to Freddie Hubbard and Lee Morgan than to Davis. However, if one does not think about the tribute aspect (or lack of), the music is quite enjoyable. Laverne and Brecker have many fine solos within the hard-bop tradition on such numbers as "When You Wish Upon a Star," "Maiden Voyage," "All Blues" and "Cantaloupe Island." An excellent modern straight-ahead date that falls just a little short of being essential.