JOHN COLTRANE BLUE TRAIN - VINYL ALBUM

Although never formally signed, an oral agreement between John Coltrane and Blue Note Records founder Alfred Lion was indeed honored on Blue Train -- Coltranes only collection of sides as a principal artist for the venerable label.

The disc is packed solid with sonic evidence of Coltranes innate leadership abilities. He not only addresses the tunes at hand, but also simultaneously reinvents himself as a multifaceted interpreter of both hard bop as well as sensitive balladry -- touching upon all forms in between.

The personnel on Blue Train is arguably as impressive as what theyre playing. Joining Coltrane (tenor sax) are Lee Morgan (trumpet), Curtis Fuller (trombone), Kenny Drew (piano), Paul Chambers (bass), and Philly Joe Jones (drums).

The triple horn arrangements incorporate an additional sonic density that remains a trademark unique to both this band and album. Of particular note is Fullers even-toned trombone, which bops throughout the title track as well as the frenetic Moments Notice. Other solos include Paul Chambers subtly understated riffs on Blue Train as well as the high energy and impact from contributions by Lee Morgan and Kenny Drew during Locomotion.

The track likewise features some brief but vital contributions from Philly Joe Jones -- whose efforts throughout the record stand among his personal best. Of the five sides that comprise the original Blue Train, the Jerome Kern/Johnny Mercer ballad I'm Old Fashioned is the only standard; in terms of unadulterated sentiment, this version is arguably untouchable.

Fullers rich tones and Drews tastefully executed solos cleanly wrap around Jones steadily languid rhythms. Without reservation, Blue Train can easily be considered in and among the most important and influential entries not only of John Coltranes career, but of the entire genre of jazz music as well.