JOHN COLTRANE

Two albums displaying the gentle side of John Coltrane.

JOHN COLTRANE
BALLADS (1962)
320 KBPS

In 1962 John Coltrane was under assault from conservative critics who had labeled his tumultuous extended performances "anti-jazz." In response he entered the studios to create this classic collection of both well known and obscure ballads. Coltrane was one of jazz's greatest ballad players, a fact sometimes overlooked in the controversy that swirled about his work, and his lyrical gifts are in sharp relief here. They're transmitted through one of the most beautiful tones that jazz has ever produced, suggesting a rare metal that has just been discovered. The material brings out the best in pianist McCoy Tyner, who is prominently featured and whose harmonic subtlety and limpid grace shine throughout.

1. Say It (Over And Over Again)
2. You Don't Know What Love Is
3. Too Young To Go Steady
4. All Or Nothing At All
5. I Wish I Knew
6. What's New
7. It's Easy To Remember
8. Nancy (With The Laughing Face)

JOHN COLTRANE
AND JOHNNY HARTMAN (1963)
320 KBPS

This is one of the three all-ballad albums that John Coltrane recorded in late 1962 and early 1963. Johnny Hartman was apparently Coltrane's suggestion, and his deep, dark voice meshes perfectly here with Coltrane's tenor. The material is well-chosen, including definitive readings of "My One and Only Love" and "Lush Life." McCoy Tyner fills out the chords, augmenting the harmonies and keeping the tone of these ballads respectful but not overly sentimental. All the players get to the deep structure of the songs and are not afraid to play in the most essential and elegant manner. This is beautiful jazz.

1. They Say It's Wonderful
2. Dedicated To You
3. My One And Only Love
4. Lush Life
5. You Are Too Beautiful
6. Autumn Serenade

both albums in one link.