"Blue Train: The Complete Masters which includes a 2nd disc of alternate and incomplete takes, 4 of which have never been released before, and none of which have been available previously on vinyl. Tone Poet Vinyl Edition produced by Joe Harley, mastered by Kevin Gray from the original analog master tapes, pressed on 180g vinyl at RTI, and packaged in deluxe gatefold tip-on jacket. The 2-LP set comes with a bound booklet featuring session photos by Francis Wolff and an essay by Coltrane expert Ashley Kahn." - Blue Note Records

Coltrane's only official Blue Note release during his lifetime, and many say his best all around album. Although I prefer Love Supreme in its soulful experimentation and breaking of standard jazz ideals, Blue Train and Giant Steps are my favorite Trane albums within the standard Jazz boundary (it's an easy call for the newbie and advanced listener). The intro to the first self titled track is an all-time classic entrance. Then Trane busts the curtains playing faster than the speed of our thought. Many say this is also some of the best work of trumpeter Lee Morgan, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer "Philly" Joe Jones as Trane shares the spotlight on all of the tracks equally. Many call it essential, but we'll settle for damn good. High quality 180 gram pressing.

• complete stereo masters including 7 previously-unreleased alt takes
• 180g black double vinyl pressing
• part of Blue Note's Tone Poet 180g audiophile remaster series
• all-analog remaster cut from the original tapes
• housed in tip-on gatefold sleeve
• includes bound booklet w/ extensive liner notes + rare session photos by Francis Wolff
• featuring John Coltrane (t. sax), Lee Morgan (t), Curtis Fuller (trombone), Kenny Drew (p), Paul Chambers (b), Philly Joe Jones (d)
• original release year: 1957
• music label: Blue Note 2022

reviewed by the mgmnt 11/2005

ALSO AVAILABLE

• Blue Train (Tone Poet 180g, Mono) Vinyl LP