John Coltrane Blue Train – Vinyl Album

The lineup here is formidable, featuring John Coltrane on tenor sax alongside Lee Morgan on trumpet, Curtis Fuller on trombone, Kenny Drew on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums. This combination creates a sonic density that is unique to this particular group, offering a richness that few other ensembles of the era could match.

The triple horn arrangement provides a layered depth, with Fuller’s trombone adding a warm, bopping foundation beneath Coltrane’s soaring lines. The music moves fluidly from frenetic energy on tracks like 'Moments Notice' to the subtle, understated riffs found in the title track, demonstrating the band’s ability to control dynamics with precision.

Four of the five sides are original compositions, showcasing the band’s creative output. The exception is 'I’m Old Fashioned,' a Jerome Kern and Johnny Mercer tune that serves as a tender counterpoint to the harder bop numbers. This version stands out for its unadulterated sentiment and emotional clarity.

Though never formally signed, an oral agreement between Coltrane and Alfred Lion resulted in this collection being his only set of sides as a principal artist for Blue Note Records. It captures a pivotal period in his development, bridging his earlier style with the innovations that would follow.

• Features tenor sax, trumpet, trombone, piano, bass and drums
• Includes the standard 'I'm Old Fashioned' among five tracks
• Showcases Curtis Fuller's even-toned trombone work
• Captures Coltrane's leadership in both bop and ballads

Although never formally signed, an oral agreement between John Coltrane and Blue Note Records founder Alfred Lion was indeed honored on Blue Train — Coltrane’s only collection of sides as a principal artist for the venerable label. The disc is packed solid with sonic evidence of Coltrane’s 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 they’re 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 Fuller’s 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. Fuller’s rich tones and Drew’s 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 Coltrane’s career, but of the entire genre of jazz music as well.