This is one of the great masterworks that offers accessibility, soul, and growing complexity. Released in 1959, Giant Steps reveals Coltrane at the cusp of his next jazz thing. He's knocking on the traditional walls and drawing up blueprints for his next phase. There's also something to be said about the strong sense of familiarity in this album. Giant Steps offers up so many concrete touchstones in the usually abstract jazz world. Once familiarized, parts of the album will trigger memory rushes and sensory illusions. 60th anniversary edition with full bonus LP containing revelatory outtakes; highly recommended.

• 180g black double vinyl pressing
• 60th anniversary edition
• 2nd LP includes alternate takes from the original sessions
• stereo sound
• featuring John Coltrane (t. sax), Tommy Flanagan (p), Paul Chambers (b), Art Taylor (d) + more
• limited edition
• music label: Atlantic 2020

reviewed by the mgmnt 09/2014