Nardis

“Nardis” is a composition by Miles Davis, recorded in 1958. Although Davis originally composed the piece for his pianist, Bill Evans, it became strongly associated with the Bill Evans Trio, who made it one of their signature performances. The title “Nardis” does not have any particular meaning, but the song’s Eastern scales and mysterious atmosphere make it unique.

The piece employs Eastern scales and melodies, structured in a 32-bar AABC format, which is relatively uncommon in jazz. The A section features a haunting melody based on a half-diminished scale, evoking a mysterious, almost Middle Eastern feel. The C section introduces a harmonic shift, adding tension and complexity to the piece.

It is crucial to emphasize the Eastern and mysterious atmosphere of the song. Understanding the unique scale used in the A section and crafting solos that reflect this mood is key. The harmonic shift in the C section should be handled with care to effectively convey the increased tension. The rhythm section should accompany delicately to enhance the piece’s mysterious vibe, ensuring that the distinct character of each section is brought out during the ensemble performance.