John Coltrane - Ballads [New CD] Bonus Tracks, Deluxe Ed, Mini LP Slee

On these recordings John Coltrane showsanother of his many facets, which was perhaps less revolutionary, but equally personal: his sensitivity and his capacity to create an intimate mood, reinventing the simplest melodies and transforming them into jazz tunes. This becomes clear with his readings of such songs as “My Favorite Things”, “Inchworm” and even the traditional “Greensleeves” (although the version of the latter tune contained here was recorded during the Ballads sessions, it wasn’t included in the final album and was issued as a 45rpm single).

In 1962, Coltrane recorded his famous album dedicated exclusively to ballads (which is presented here), and the following year he accompanied the celebrated singer Johnny Hartman for a whole LP with his quartet. By the time he recorded Ballads, Coltrane had already delved into freer and longer solos and compositions, and as a result he had his devoted followers as well as his detractors.

PERSONNEL:

JOHN COLTRANE, tenor sax