Miles Davis: Ascenseur pour l'echafaud LP
First released in 1958 by Fontana in Europe and Columbia in America, never had a soundtrack contributed as much to the fame of a film. The contradictory accounts of Miles Davis’ creation of the soundtrack have all become part of its legend. Rarely has a soundtrack been so decisive. Close to seven decades on, beyond the myth, this taut, feverish recording, imbued with extreme dramatic tension, remains one of the most iconic soundtracks in our catalogue — and one of the only jazz soundtracks which was entirely improvised.
This limited edition 180g pressing of the original soundtrack is presented in a deluxe gatefold tip-on jacket with English translation of the original liner notes, and iconic session photo of Miles and Jeanne Moreau (taken by the film’s stills photographer Vincent Rossell). Also included is Franck Bergerot’s essay A Present from Miles Davis to Louis Malle that goes beyond the legend of Ascenseur and reconstitutes the circumstances that led to this out-of-the ordinary music.
Tracklist:
Side A
1. Générique
2. L’Assassinat de Carala
3. Sur l’autoroute
4. Julien dans l’ascenseur
5. Florence sur les Champs-Élysées
Side B
1. Dîner au motel
2. Évasion de Julien
3. Visite du Vigile
4. Au bar du Petit Bac
5. Chez le photographe du motel