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- The Analog Vault // Essential Listening -

The defining album of legendary American jazz saxophonist John Coltrane’s storied career, A Love Supreme emerged as a prayerful paragon that was beyond reproach. Structured as a through-composed suite in four parts and delivered in praise of God - this modal, post-bop masterpiece was the sound of Coltrane’s spiritual awakening, existing in an exalted plane that few (if any) albums made before or since have been able to touch.

Recorded with Coltrane’s classic quartet - Elvin Jones, McCoy Tyner and Jimmy Garrison - A Love Supreme was not just technically experimental, it was emotionally and conceptually ambitious. From "Acknowledgement" to “Psalm”, Coltrane eloquently translated his personal journey from darkness to enlightenment through his chosen medium of free jazz. The result was a magnum opus of divine proportions. — The Analog Vault

John Coltrane's A Love Supreme is widely regarded as one of the greatest jazz albums of all time. Released in 1965, the album features Coltrane's quartet at the height of their creative powers, and is a testament to the saxophonist's spiritual and musical vision. The album is divided into four parts, each representing a different aspect of Coltrane's personal journey towards spiritual enlightenment. The opening track, "Acknowledgement," is a meditative piece that features Coltrane's iconic "A Love Supreme" chant. This is followed by "Resolution," a high-energy piece that showcases Coltrane's virtuosic saxophone playing.

The third track, "Pursuance," is a dynamic, fast-paced tune with intricate solos by each member of the quartet. The album concludes with "Psalm," a reflective, hymn-like piece that features Coltrane's saxophone playing in a more subdued, spiritual mode. Throughout the album, Coltrane's playing is characterized by his signature "sheets of sound" technique, in which he plays rapid, complex runs of notes that seem to cascade and flow endlessly. The quartet's interplay is also exceptional, with each member contributing to the album's overall sense of improvisational freedom and musical unity. Trane's classic quartet of Elvin Jones, McCoy Tyner, and Jimmy Garrison together created one of the most thought-provoking albums of their relationship.

Lyrically, the album explores themes of spirituality, redemption, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The music is delivered with an intensity and sincerity that is palpable, making it a deeply moving and powerful listening experience. Overall, A Love Supreme is a landmark album that showcases Coltrane's unparalleled musicianship and profound spiritual insight. It's a must-listen for jazz enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates music that speaks to the soul. — via Label

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Label: Impulse!, Verve Records, UMe
Series: Acoustic Sounds Series
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album, Reissue, Repress, Stereo, 180g, Gatefold
Reissued: 2021 / Original Release: 1965
Genre: Jazz
Style: Free Jazz, Modal

File under: Audiophile Jazz
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