Album of the Day

For John Coltrane, the next step after the epochal GIANT STEPS was the 1961 Atlantic collection COLTRANE JAZZ. Seven of its eight tracks – including the Sonny Rollins tribute “Like Sonny” and the magnificent “Harmonique” - were recorded in 1959 with the rhythm section from Miles Davis' band (of which Coltrane had recently been a member). Cut a year later, “Village Blues” marked the beginning of the saxophonist's association with pianist McCoy Tyner and drummer Elvin Jones, who would go on to be featured players on 'Trane's classic Impulse sessions. Produced by Nesuhi Ertegün, COLTRANE JAZZ offers both a look back and a hint of things to come through an appealing mix of standards and original compositions, and as such is the perfect way to remember the legendary performer, who was born 90 years ago today.