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
'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
is arguably as impressive as what they're playing. Joining
(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
' subtly understated riffs on
"Blue Train"
as well as the high energy and impact from contributions by
during
"Locomotion."
The track likewise features some brief but vital contributions from
-- whose efforts throughout the record stand among his personal best. Of the five sides that comprise the original
, the
Jerome Kern
/
Johnny Mercer
ballad
"I'm Old Fashioned"
is the only standard; in terms of unadulterated sentiment, this version is arguably untouchable.
's rich tones and
Drew
's tastefully executed solos cleanly wrap around
Jones
' steadily languid rhythms. Without reservation,
can easily be considered in and among the most important and influential entries not only of
's career, but of the entire genre of
jazz
music as well. ~ Lindsay Planer