Impulse

Impulse

Track Listings

1. Impulse (Revised)

2. Impulse (Original)

3. Impulse (extended)

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
An EP for the NEW world of Trance Dance Jazz Listeners. Revised - original & extended versions. (An Ultimate Climax Series)

Tracks:

Acknowledgement
Resolution
Pursuance
Psalm

Amazon.com

A Love Supreme is a suite about redemption, a work of pure spirit and song, that encapsulates all the struggles and aspirations of the 1960s. Following hard on the heels of the lyrical, swinging Crescent, A Love Supreme heralded Coltrane's search for spiritual and musical freedom, as expressed through polyrhythms, modalities, and purely vertical forms that seemed strange to some jazz purists, but which captivated more adventurous listeners (and rock fellow travelers such as the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Cream, and the Byrds), while initiating a series of volatile, unruly prayer offerings, including Kulu Su Mama, Ascension, Om, Meditations, Expression, Interstellar Space. From the urgent speech-like timbre of his tenor, to the serpentine textures and earthy groove of Elvin Jones's drumming, Coltrane's suite proceeds with escalating intensity, conveying a hard-fought wisdom and a beckoning serenity in the prayer-like drones of "Psalm," where Jones rolls and rumbles like thunder as Garrison and Tyner toll away suggestively--all the while Coltrane searches for that one climactic note worthy of the love he wants to share. --Chip Stern

Customer Reviews:

Masterpiece.......2007-06-26

There is nothing I can add to what has already been said about this recording. Simply amazing and will always withstand the test of time.

Coltrane does it again!.......2007-06-11

This is one of the top 5 albums of all time. Coltrane is on fire, McCoy is on fire, Jimmy Garrison is on fire, and Elvin is murderous. Out of all of tunes, my fav is Pursuance. It's passionate, has a hard bopish-avantgarde feel and yet it still swings. Out of the park!

Rookie Coltrane Listener.......2007-05-26

For years my very good friend who prides himself on being a music aficionado and "snob", much like Jack Black's character in High Fidelity, has been raving about John Coltrane and a "Love Supreme". I however, have been firmly encamped in the classic rock, blues and pop of the 50's, 60's & 70's. I always felt the jazz style that Coltrane and others of that genre played, was way above my head. Though I appreciated the musicianship to the degree I could, I didn't particularly care for it. I didn't "get it".

But now as I reach the half-way point in my fifties, I wanted to force my self to listen and try to see just what it is about Coltrane that so many folks find extrodinary. So my friend recommended A Love Supreme. I listened and listened and virtually immersed my self in the recording until passages became familiar. Now I have a glimmer, an embryonic appreciation of the man's gift. I put it on for my 17 year old daughter and she loves it! It grows on you and I think maybe for the first time I'm experiencing what that type of jazz can do for you. Live & learn!

Deeply moving..........2007-04-20

This is a deeply spiritual album. It never ceases to move me in some way everytime I hear it. It feels so real and authentic that if you're not careful, you may shed a tear of joy or two. It's just one long suite, made by Coltrane after he kicked his heroin habit and found his soul and God again. It's not often one describes a jazz album as moving (Miles's Sketches of Spain is the only one who comes to mind), but there's really no other way to describe this wonderful, transcendent, beguiling album.

Indispensable to all music listeners.......2007-04-08

Like "Kind of Blue" this is a recording accessible to all listeners, resisting facile classifications (fusion, jazz, modal, musician's music, general public's music, etc.). Coltrane's Promethean questing sweeps up and includes the listener, taking him or her through the hero's journey, which concludes on an affirmative note of thanksgiving and peace. Moreover, the musical motifs are in themselves memorable, satisfying the listener's need for a musical stronghold in which to ground the spiritual thrust of the extra-musical religious-spiritual meanings.

Of the recordings after "A Love Supreme," "Transition" achieves a similar visionary ascent, though much of the recorded documentation of Coltrane's last two years is likely to prove inaccessible or at least less engaging to the average listener. It's music "in" but also "of" the moment, a record of pain and anger, protest and revolution, carrying an unmistakable political subtext that frequently overwhelms the main musical text.

Arguably the most influential instrumentalist of the past 50 years, Coltrane left the listener plenty of choices, should the recordings after "A Love Supreme" prove unsatisfying. "My Favorite Things" is the perfect antidote to the cloying soprano sax sound of Kenny G. (as is the soprano sax playing of the deeply expressive and moving traditionalist, Sidney Bechet). For every serious musician, however, perhaps the one recording by Coltrane that belongs at the top is "Giant Steps." Once a musician has mastered the dominant-tonic movement of popular harmonies, the next essential step is learning how to negotiate the "Giant Steps"/"Count Down" harmonic movement that Coltrane introduced. Before learning the theory, however, a listener needs to experience the stunning freshness that is its musical result. With the motivation, the theory is likely to be realized far more efficiently and effectively.

Average customer rating:

My Favorite Things: Coltrane at Newport
John Coltrane
Manufacturer: Impulse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000QFAG2Q
Release Date: 2007-07-03

Tracks:

I Want to Talk About You
My Favorite Things
Impressions [#]
Introduction by Father Norman O'Connor
One Down, One Up
My Favorite Things

Average customer rating:

Classic quartet on fire
Music for musicians
Disappointed with the announcer and tunes cut off
Hard work but worth it.
classic 'trane

One Down, One Up: Live at the Half Note
John Coltrane
Manufacturer: Impulse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Thelonious Monk Quartet with John Coltrane at Carnegie Hall
Town Hall, New York City, June 22, 1945
Live at the House of Tribes
The Cellar Door Sessions 1970
The Complete Village Vanguard Recordings, 1961

ASIN: B000B0QOJA
Release Date: 2005-10-11

Tracks:

Introduction And Announcements
One Down, One Up
Announcements
Afro-Blue

Tracks:

Introduction And Announcements
Song Of Praise
Announcements
My Favorite Things

Amazon.com

Having recharged his legendary status on 2005's spectacular Thelonious Monk Quartet with John Coltrane: At Carnegie Hall, a previously unheard "lost" recording from 1957, the late John Coltrane solidifies his refreshed standing with a new generation of jazz fans with this exciting discovery by his own quartet. Recorded in 1965 at New York's Half Note club, One Down, One Up isn't as stunning a find as the Monk album. Its recorded sound, taken from a radio broadcast, is pretty raw and, whereas the Monk album represents a rare meeting of these giants, there are other live albums from the mid-'60s by the Coltrane four. None, however, are as good as this one, which finds the tenor and soprano saxophonist making magnificent mountains out of modal molehills through his relentless surrounding and reshaping of notes, never coming up for air. You don't listen to epic performances like the 28-minute title track, 23-minute rendition of "My Favorite Things" (his bread and butter tune) and 20-minute "Song of Praise" so much as immerse yourself in them. You simply need to experience them for their rising intensity and spiritual weight, for their earthy beauty, for the band's locking gears: pianist McCoy Tyner's ferocious hammered notes, drummer Elvin Jones' whirlwind figures, bassist Jimmy Garrison's eloquent lines. Thriving on melody, which he would abandon in the sonically assault live final phase of his sadly shortened career, Coltrane keeps listeners in the palm of his hand even as he pushes into unchartered territory. --Lloyd Sachs

Album Description

Coltrane and his legendary band--McCoy Tyner on piano, Jimmy Garrison on bass, and Elvin Jones on drums--regularly played at downtown New York's Half Note in the mid 1960s. The group used the club's flexible set times to accommodate Coltrane's musical suites and far-reaching improvisations. As Half Note founder Mike Canterino said, "I just wanted the music and to let the guys go ahead and do what they want to do."

The importance of these influential performances has grown throughout the years as musicians--especially saxophone players--passed around bootleg and lo-fi copies taken from the 1965 radio broadcast. It was a time when Coltrane was pushing his musical boundaries, and one can hear the evolution of his style on these recordings. As his son Ravi Coltrane says, "You can hear everything that came before and begin to hear where the music was going."

The music captured on One Down, One Up: Live at the Half Note features the songs "One Down, One Up" (perhaps the highlight of the collection), "Afro Blue," "Song of Praise," and "My Favorite Things." The unparalleled performances showcase a band filled with fiery passion and a master at the crossroads of his musical path.

One Down, One Up: Live at the Half Note features liner notes from journalist and author Ashley Kahn, who wrote A Love Supreme: The Story of John Coltrane's Signature Album as well as the upcoming The House That Trane Built: The Story of Impulse Records. Also included is an essay by the CD's producer, Ravi Coltrane.

Customer Reviews:

Classic quartet on fire.......2007-04-14

If you are new to Trane this might not be the place to start but then again, understanding the enormity of his musicianship is part of the essence of knowing Coltrane's music. Personally, I have beeen listening to Coltrane since he was alive and thriving and pushing the limits of jazz. What you will find on this gem is exactly that, pushing the music, jazz music specifically, beyond the usual perceptions. His legendary solos are captured here and one highlight of this disc is the extended version of the lovely and unique interpretation of "My Favorite Things." Coming in at over 22 minutes this beautiful song allows Trane to express the things he couldn't on his album of the same name. The driving drum beats pounded by Elvin Jones, the extended solos and lingering piano work of McCoy Tyner and thumping, solid bass of Jimmy Garrison are perfect companions to the relentless notes coming out of Trane's horn. His improvisation is a lesson in the technique of going out there and bringing it all back home. Melodic yet challenging, Trane's vision is never more eloquent than on this song. Your jaw will drop. The grunts and groans of the musicians, the silence of the crowd probaly from being in awe in the presence of greatness and the erruption of fans apreciation will put you in the Half Note some forty-three years ago. This is the classic quartet at it's height. The extreme "One up ,One Down" opens with Garrison reaching out for your ear as the quartet slowly fills in and goes beyond the limits of comprehension as to how long a song can be stretched. Coming in at nearly 28 minutes any musician can benefit from listening and a casual or rabid jazz can only marvel at the stamina, endurance and intensity of Trane's classic quartet and omnipotent horn. The spiritual quality of Trane's music is expressed in "Song of Praise", which is about as intense as it can get. I can only imagine the concentration, admire the effort from afar, many years since that night in New York but I can feel his energy anew with the release recently of this priceless masterpiece from the vaults. The individual songs each have their own attraction but the complete performance is the way the disc should be appreciated; it is a study in the complex world of jazz outside the paradigm. The announcers voice and breaking up of the music offers a glimpse into the real world of performance where the breaks are barely long enough to wipe the sweat from one's brow; Trane and his quartet must have been sweating profusly and barely had enough time to quench their thirst before entertaining again. If you are a jazz fan you will love this disc. If you are a Trane fan you will experience nirvana listening to him blow again. This is recommended for any serious music fans collection; Trane lives on as his legacy continues to grow.It doesn't get much better than this.

Music for musicians.......2006-12-07

I personally like this tipe of jazz. I enjoy hearing endless variations that are accompanied by some kind of joy de vivre, when one almost feels the energy and music booming from speakers, moving your whole mind and body in the rhytm. After the song is over, you are often lost and it takes some time to regain ones composure. On the other hand, there are people who find this kind of music particularily nagging and painful. They are not willing to give any chance to artist or the song involved, and music just flows past them without touching them.

But something bothers me with this record. It feels like Coltrane is somwhere else, although his instrument is still there and plying. For me, it's like hearing perfectly performed practice for fingering, perfect but still somehow rutinely done. There are flashes, where you can hear Coltrane snap into it, and music becomes more powerfull and gains colour, but this is over in such a short time that this feeling of non-existance remains. Like it has never been there.

Bear in mind that this is the record which you will have to grow into. For which you will have to learn how to like it. It will go one piece at a time, but if you grasp the sense, then the full enjoyment will be prsent, and you'll return over and over again.

Disappointed with the announcer and tunes cut off .......2006-10-29

I was really annoyed by the announcer stepping all over the best parts of some of the solos but even more annoyed that the best tunes are cut off probably only half-way into the tunes. Just when Trane starts stretching out, the announcer comes in and the songs are cut. Get the Village Vanguard recordings first. I saw Pharoah Sanders do a version of My Favorite Things at Blues Alley for over an hour and it was a spiritual experience that will never be equalled. I hate to think of what I missed with these recordings... it's depressing.

Hard work but worth it........2006-08-22

If you like the later, freer, more open works of John Coltrane then you will absolutely love this album. It is hard work though, and not for the uninitiated. It requires a decision to engage oneself with this incredible musician, to open your spirit and allow his music to effect, move and change you. If you are jumping in to John Coltrane for the first time, I do not suggest that you start here. May I suggest earlier works like 'Soultane' or 'Bluetrane' as jumping in points.

classic 'trane.......2006-08-07

the sessions at the half note present the classic coltrane quartet at the height of its powers. this version of afro blue rivals the cut on "live at birdland."

Average customer rating:

FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!
An absolute must for Coltrane lovers

John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman
John Coltrane with Johnny Hartman
Manufacturer: Impulse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Collection: 1947-1972
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Ella & Louis (Stereo SACD)

ASIN: B0000DZ3GW
Release Date: 2004-11-16

Tracks:

They Say It's Wonderful
Dedicated to You
My One and Only Love
Lush Life
You Are Too Beautiful
Autumn Serenade
They Say It's Wonderful [Stereo Version]
Dedicated to You [Stereo Version]
My One and Only Love [Stereo Version]
Lush Life [Stereo Version]
You Are Too Beautiful [Stereo Version]
Autumn Serenade [Stereo Version]

Customer Reviews:

FANTASTIC!!!!!!!!!.......2005-06-14

A wholesale improvement in sound quality when played back in SACD mode over the impulse release. Other than some tape hiss, terrific presence and very much a "you are there" quality to the sound. Hartman was a fabulous singer and Coltrane is at his best doing ballads. If you like romantic jazz with up front vocals and sax, this is a must have disc. I own about 2000 CDs. This is in my top 10 favorites.

An absolute must for Coltrane lovers.......2005-01-01

As a saxophonist, I have been a Coltrane lover for twenty years, and have avoided any vocal contamination of his and other jazz greats' works. All of that changed when I listened to this album! The polished intensity of Coltrane's tenor sax blended with the baritone crooning of Johnny Hartman make this one of the most romantic albums in jazz (and that is saying something).

Johnny Hartman, while a star in his own right, has never has inspired me as much. And while, "A Love Supreme," released a year and a half later in 1965, is arguably Coltrane's greatest work, "John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman," is more intimate and at the same time, accessible for the listener. The struggle to describe the radiance of divinity and reverence is replaced by the more tangible themes of a human's trials and triumphs in love. If you only get one album to share with your sweetheart, this is the one to get!

Average customer rating:

Another good album from the wonderful Yusef Lateef
good & straight ahead

The Golden Flute
Yusef Lateef
Manufacturer: Impulse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00014AURS
Release Date: 2004-03-09

Tracks:

Road Runner
Straighten Up And Fly Right
Oasis
(I Don't Stand) A Ghost Of A Chance With You
Exactly Like You
The Golden Flute
Rosetta
Head Hunters
The Smart Set

Customer Reviews:

Another good album from the wonderful Yusef Lateef.......2005-08-21

I'm just listening to this album and I love it. If you never heard Lateef before you may want to check out the 1968 album Gentle Giant first or the live albums when he was in the Cannonball Adderley 6tet in the early 60s. This one (from '66 I believe) is definitely interesting and worth it for the Headhunters track alone. I just can't get it out of my head!

good & straight ahead.......2004-04-15

I haven't owned any Lateef recordings before, and am enjoying this one. A few especially nice tracks (I like jazz flute), but perhaps not an album for the ages. A solid three stars.

Average customer rating:

Wonderful
It's good for you... better than milk!
Amazing creative music
Difficult Listening

The Impulse Years 1973-1974
Keith Jarrett
Manufacturer: Grp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Keith Jarrett at the Blue Note: The Complete Recordings

ASIN: B000003NA7
Release Date: 1997-11-11

Tracks:

(If The) Misfits (Wear It)
Fort Yawuh
De Drums
Still Life, Still Life
(If The) Misfits (Wear It)

Tracks:

Whistle Tune
Spoken Introduction
Angles (Without Edges)
Roads Traveled, Roads Veiled
De Drums (Excerpt)
Melting The Ice

Tracks:

The Rich (And The Poor)
Blue Streak
Fullsuvollivus (Fools Of All Of Us)
Treasure Island
Introduction And Yaqui Indian Folk Song
Le Mistral
Angles (Without Edges)
Sister Fortune
Death And The Flower

Tracks:

Death And The Flower
Prayer
Great Bird
Prayer

Tracks:

Inflight
Kuum
Vapallia
Backhand
Victoria

Amazon.com

This comprehensive five-CD set, comprising all four of the pianist's ensemble albums for the Impulse label along with unreleased tracks and extended edits of the original LP versions, sheds light on an earlier, warmer Jarrett, even as he raised his sights toward the Olympian goals of the past quarter century. If Jarrett's work since the '70s has seemed austere and even forbidding in its acute aesthetic, there are moments throughout this generous portrait that attest to a more democratic spirit and more palpable pleasure in his American quartet 's playing, distinguished from his parallel team of Scandinavian partners for his ECM label dates. Then again, with Charlie Haden on bass, Paul Motian on drums, and Dewey Redman on tenor sax, there was ample cause for smiling--this was a world-class group with formidable postbop and avant-garde credentials more than up to Jarrett's technically adroit, musically challenging material. With guitarist Sam Brown and percussionists Guilherme Franco and Danny Johnson augmenting the group at various points, it's a collective that can veer from roiling, free-blown dynamism and easy-rolling gospel syncopations to tremulous, lyrical reveries--all with superb new 20-bit transfer extracts with optimal sonics. --Sam Sutherland

Album Details

Japanese Five CD Box Set. Limited Edition for Initial Pressing Only.

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful.......2006-10-08

I'm not a big Keith Jarrett fan at all, so I was very pleasantly surprised when I got this on a friend's recommendation. This has some of the best Dewey Redman I've ever heard. Definitely a must-have, especially for Ornette fans.

It's good for you... better than milk!.......2002-03-10

Though it never achieved the popularity of the Standards Trio, the European Quartet, or his solo performances, Keith Jarrett's American "Quartet" was one of his most exciting groups. Jarrett, tenor saxophonist Dewey Redman, bassist Charlie Haden and drummer Paul Motian were all strong musical personalities, but the creative tension they generated was conducive to some great music that "thought outside the box". It tied together a wide array of seemingly incompatible strands in modern jazz: the loose, quirky free-bop of Ornette Coleman ("Misfits", "Angles"), the romantic lyricism and harmonic richness of Bill Evans ("Still Life, Still Life", "Prayer"), and the groovy, gospel-infused soul jazz of Bobby Timmons and Cannonball Adderley ("De Drums", "Le Mistral"). It also drew on traditions outside jazz: Asian and African music ("Roads Travelled, Roads Veiled", "Kuum"), 20th century classical, and even hints of rock'n'roll ("Treasure Island"). And when the Quartet was not satisfied with the traditional jazz instruments, they tried others: Jarrett played soprano sax, Redman played a Chinese musette, and every member of the group played odd percussion. (The group usually included one or two additional percussionists.)

Though the group also recorded for Atlantic, Columbia and ECM, the bulk of their work was done on the Impulse label. This box set packages the first four Impulse albums (Fort Yawuh, Treasure Island, Death and the Flower, and Backhand) on 5 CDs; each album showcases a different facet of the band's personality. Conveniently for LP-philes, the albums are presented on separate discs by initial running order (rather than chronologically, by session). The packaging is nice and compact -- a double jewel case holds all 5 CDs and fits into a neat slipcase.

Fort Yawuh, on the first two CDs, lets the group stretch out live at the Village Vanguard -- most of the tunes are between 10 and 20 minutes. Treasure Island (disc 3) is the most accessible and rock-influenced; most of the tunes have strong backbeats and two tracks feature electric guitar. Death and the Flower is more reflective and revolves around the magnificent, organic group improvisation of the title track. Disc 5, Backhand, showcases the band at its jazziest; this may be my favorite album by the group.

Since at most 2 of the albums are currently available domestically (Death and the Flower may be going out of print), this box set is probably the best investment for someone interested in this music. It is probably less expensive than the four albums would be individually. At any rate, any fan of Jarrett or post-bop jazz should hear this music is some form. People who like this set should also check out the classic "Survivor's Suite" (on ECM) and the 4 CD set of 1975-76 Impulse material titled "Mysteries".

Amazing creative music.......2001-03-17

Admittedly this kind of jazz will not appeal to those whose idea of great music is Celine Deion, but it will reward those who have ears to hear the incredible interplay between the players on these recordings. If you like a lot of Ornette Coleman`s work, you will find much to love here. I am also a fan of Keith`s more "inside" work with DeJohnette and Gary Peacock as well as many of his ECM releases. But this stuff is, to my ears, the most challenging (ie. it takes a little work to get into) and the most rewarding.

Difficult Listening.......2000-03-09

My favorite part of this set was the "Fort Yaweh" material on the first two discs. And at that, the only piece that really moved me was the frenetic, Ornette-like "If the Misfits". The records cut by this quartet subsequently degenerate into very difficult, "free"-style playing. I like Jarrett's music when it has more structure to it, but find most of this relatively unlistenable and formless.

Average customer rating:

Spellbinder
Spellbinding
Quirky, but I like it
Formidable.
Wonderfully eclectic sensibility; unique and deeply moving playing

Spellbinder
Gabor Szabo
Manufacturer: Impulse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000AMJEJG
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

Spellbinder
Witchcraft
It Was a Very Good Year
Gypsy Queen
Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)
Cheetah
My Foolish Heart
Yearning
Autumn Leaves/Speak to Me of Love

Customer Reviews:

Spellbinder.......2007-04-03

This CD does not in any way convey the excitement and dynamics of the original vinyl recording. This made the listening experience somewhat frustrating, like trying to catch the rainbow. But Gabor is, after all, Gabor. For those who dont know, he is a lyrical guitarist, with a unique style. Four stars for the content.

Spellbinding.......2007-01-09

Hungarian guitarist Gabor Szabo had a unique style that some forty years later still helps him retain a place in the lexicon of jazz. The title track "Spellbinder" features heavyweight musicians, Ron Carter on bass, Willie Bobo on percussion and the man with whom he cut his jazz teeth, Chico Hamilton on drums. The hypnotic rhythms are sustained throughout the driving song while Szabo's gypsyesque jazz guitar weaves a pulsating spell on the listener.There are a few standards here that Szabo gives the gypsy treatment to including "Autum Leaves" but "It Was A Very Good Year" is just sublime."Gypsy Queen" is a free flowing song that remindes Szabo of his days watching the gypsies dance by the firelight. The result is a mystical song that was caught on tape by the genius of engineer Bob Thiele who while the band was warming up in order to get in tune and a rhythm decided to roll tape. The result is a spontaneous jam that was named later and now part of the lore surrounding Bob Thiele. In this song you can hear the influence this song and style had on Santana, especially on his classic earl works. Some songs are time warps that should have been left in the time machine."Bang Bang"(Sonny & Cher)is a pop song given the jazz makeover but falls short with the accented lyrics sounding like they belong in a smuggled low budget Eastern-bloc movie. Dionne Warwicks "Yearning" features more singing that is really not Szabo's best musical quality."Cheetah", inspired by the N.Y disco of that era is a free flowing song that recalls mods and mini-skirts. This disc gives testament to the lyrical expression and distinctive style that was Gabor Szabo. Recommended for jazz enthuisiasts and purists alike who like music from a different era on occassion.

Quirky, but I like it.......2006-10-10

I don't know what possessed me, but I bought this album without knowing a thing about Gabor Szabo. I'm glad I did, because I have it on all the time. I find it incredibly moving. I especially like "Witchcraft" which I had never heard without the vocal before, and it's charming. Szabo's vocal on "Bang Bang" is quirky and engaging. All in all, I find the album both adventurous and mellow, and I recommend it.

Formidable........2006-07-16

Gabor Szabo had a unique and distinctive sound, love it or hate it , he influenced many successive jazz guitarists among them George Benson and Lee Ritenour. George adopted the 'clangy' metallic sound on many of his very early records and in 1976 covered a tune originally done by Gabor. (i.e."Breezin" which was incidentally written by Bobby Womack. Thanks for the reminder "theta"!)
Gabors Eastern mystical side caused him to try and emulate the sitar and to combine that sound with gypsy angular scales.I think he succeeded very well and although today he may sound dated to me he sounds unique.
It's true that his choice of tunes was a little bubblegumish but then back in 1968 even Leonard Nimoy was making records and even Joe Pass did a tribute to The Rolling Stones!
"Gypsy Queen" sums up Gabors style. Carlos Santana regards 'Spellbinder' as one of the greatest guitar albums ever and almost worships Szabo.
Back in 1970 i purchased some Gabor Szabo albums but didn't understand this mans direction until many years afterwards.
It's a cause for stumbling among many listeners today. Unless we can be transported back to 1968 we will find it difficult to appreciate the music contained here.
If you find the tunes here on this CD a little too light and wish to really hear Gabor Szabo cut loose and blow your mind try purchasing Chico Hamiltons "Man From Both Worlds" CD ...OR Gabors "In Contrast" CD where he teams up with the legendary Bobby Womack himself.

Wonderfully eclectic sensibility; unique and deeply moving playing.......2006-04-10

Take a Latin rhythm section and add a Hungarian immigrant with formal musical training and a love of Jazz and Gypsies. Then place in a recording studio in 1966 with a producer with the courage and deep pockets to let the music happen largely unplanned. Now add a touch of genius and a sprinkling of bad taste and you have Spellbinder. I have to say that I can easily forgive the vocal because it is so charming. It really is disarmingly silly. And the overdubs are out of place. BUT Spellbinder and Gypsies Queen are well worth the price of admission, and most of the other tunes are very moving as well. This is one of the most enjoyable, spontaneous and heartfelt guitar albums of the 60s. No, Gabor Szabo is not Jimi Hendrix or Johnny Smith. Let's say he is to Hendrix or Smith as Scriabin is to Brahms. It is a wild and magical trip complete with an occasional Hungarian guttural. Relax. Close your eyes. Let it happen. Take the trip.

COLTRANE The Classic Quartet: Complete Impulse! Studio Recordings

Average customer rating:

Great item, but attention!
Stunning, and indispensible
Essential
Great for collectors
This one is a no-brainer

COLTRANE The Classic Quartet: Complete Impulse! Studio Recordings
John Coltrane
Manufacturer: Grp Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Avant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Bebop & Post-Bop | Compilations | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Box Sets | Stores | Music

GRP | Verve Music Group | Specialty Stores | Music
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The Heavyweight Champion: The Complete Atlantic Recordings of John Coltrane (Incl: 7 CD's; 72 Pg. Hd.C. Book)
The Complete 1961 Village Vanguard Recordings
The Complete Blue Note Recordings
The Miles Davis Quintet, 1965-68: The Complete Columbia Studio
The Complete Columbia Recordings: Miles Davis & John Coltrane

ASIN: B00000DHZ9
Release Date: 1998-11-17

Tracks:

Greensleeves
It's Easy To Remember
The Inchworm
Big Nick
Out Of This World
Soul Eyes
Miles' Mode
Tunji
Nancy (With The Laughing Face)
What's New?
Up 'Gainst The Wall
Too Young To Go Steady
All Or Nothing At All
I Wish I Knew

Tracks:

You Don't Know What Love Is
Say It (Over And Over Again)
Vilia
After The Rain
Dear Old Stockholm
Your Lady
Alabama
Lonnie's Lament
The Drum Thing
Wise One

Tracks:

Crescent
Bessie's Blues
A Love Supreme, Part I - Acknowledgement
A Love Supreme, Part II - Resolution
A Love Supreme, Part III - Pursuance
A Love Supreme, Part IV - Psalm
Nature Boy (First Version)
Nature Boy
Feelin' Good
Chim Chim Cheree

Tracks:

Brasilia
Song Of Praise
After The Crescent
Dear Lord
One Down, One Up
Welcome
The Last Blues

Tracks:

Untitled Original 90314
Transition
Suite: Part I - Prayer And Meditation: Day/Part II - Peace And After...
Living Space
Dusk Dawn

Tracks:

Vigil
Untitled Original 90320
Dearly Beloved
Attaining
Sun Ship
Ascent
Amen

Tracks:

Meditations (Quartet Version): Love
Meditations (Quartet Version): Compassion
Meditations (Quartet Version): Joy
Meditations (Quartet Version): Consequences
Meditations (Quartet Version): Serenity
Meditations (Quartet Version): Joy (Second Version)

Tracks:

Works In Progress: Crescent (First Version)
Works In Progress: Bessie's Blues (First Version, Incomplete)
Works In Progress: Song Of Praise (First Version)
Works In Progress: A Love Supreme, Part II-Resolution (Alternate Take)
Works In Progress: Feelin' Good (Alternate Take)
Works In Progress: Dear Lord (Breakdowns & Alternate Take)
Works In Progress: Living Space (Breakdown & Alternate Take)

Amazon.com essential recording

There have been many Coltrane compilations and box sets over the years since the saxophonist's passing in 1967, but this eight-CD complete collection of his quartet's studio recordings between 1961 and 1965 is the must-have. Jazz may be a music blessed with dazzling soloists, but few groups in its history seem up to perfectly matching the intentions of their leaders: Louis Armstrong's Hot Five and Hot Seven, Bill Evans's trio of 1960-61, and Miles Davis's mid-60's quintet are among the few that immediately come to mind. Coltrane's quartet of pianist McCoy Tyner, drummer Elvin Jones, and bassist Jimmy Garrison was another, a group so perfectly matched to his playing that it seems difficult to imagine him without them. Tyner, for example, immerses the group in restless chords and showers of single notes; Jones plays with stentorian power, yet tempers his playing with well-etched detail and a strong sense of melody; and Garrison anchors the quartet with drones and deeply rooted vamps. So powerful was the quartet's conception that even when ringers like Art Davis and Roy Haynes turn up on a couple of tracks, they, too, carry out Coltrane's aims, their individual differences worked into the scheme. On the 66 tracks included in this set (all now remastered) it's possible to follow the evolution of this extraordinary band from Coltrane's very ascetic approach on relatively straightforward albums such as Ballads and The John Coltrane Quartet Plays through devotional efforts like A Love Supreme and First Meditations on to Living Space and Sun Ship, those last moments before his leap of faith into the unknown in his last few years.

This quartet's music is marked with a seriousness of purpose that burst the boundaries of jazz, and with a display of authority rare for any music. Yet despite its exploratory passion, it was a music grounded in the blues and the distant memory of swing. Coltrane, always the seeker, had found his kindred spirits and poured himself and all he knew into these performances; and even those who never shared an enthusiasm for his music at least always recognized this much.

The final disc of the set contains seven unreleased tracks, including significantly different versions of "Bessie's Blues" and "Resolution" from A Love Supreme, and others discovered by Ravi Coltrane on his father's original reference records. (For those interested in the culture of the studio, it is fascinating to see that despite its apparent simplicity and the inevitability of its melody, a gem like "Dear Lord" began with the plague of several false starts.) Music spread across 18 albums has been collated and reassembled chronologically here, much of it not always easy to find: examples are the scattered gems "Vilia," "Dear Old Stockholm," and "Big Nick," as well as a version of "Greensleeves," originally issued as an Impulse 45 single. An essential set for understanding jazz at its highest level of achievement. --John Szwed

Customer Reviews:

Great item, but attention!.......2007-04-11

Music on this box set is perfect. I like it, mainly last five cd's. Coltrane's free and soulful jazz is superb. I love his music and his last free jazz" years especially.
I obtain this box set manufactury sealed with seal. But when I had opened this box set some cd's was lightly scratched. Maybe it is for terrible packaging of this set. Problem is to extract cd's from case.
But I already have experience with new factory sealed boxes (from different stores) which included lightly scratches cd's. Especially on Sony/BMG and Atlantic labels (for example Miles Davis box sets or Ornette Coleman set on Atlantic/Rhino). Give attention and verify what you are buying.

Stunning, and indispensible.......2007-01-10

Listening to Coltrane and his colleagues evolve from "Greensleeves" in December '61 to the First Meditations sessions in September '65, is to take part in one of the greatest human journeys ever recorded. The music is almost beyond description: dissonant, beautiful, violent, gentle, sad, exuberant -- a passionate and accurate reflection of the human condition.

A warning to the uninitiated: This is NOT "My Favorite Things," or "The Gentle Side." Coltrane is an acquired taste; he pushes the envelope hard and far.

So, should you buy this set? If you already have most or all of these recordings (see other reviews for the list), you probably won't want to spring for it. If you don't have them, however, it's a no-brainer: you'd have to buy (I think) 12 Coltrane albums, and a couple multi-artist compilations (if you can find them), to get all this material.

Want to hear the original albums? Much (but not all) of the information is provided in the suprisingly useful booklet (most reissue notes are mere blather; not so these), so you can rip the music to your player, and create a playlist that gives you the albums as they were issued. True, you're missing the original artwork and liner notes -- you'll have to buy the albums for that.

The package is OK, except for the annoying aluminum sleeve. Why couldn't they put the set in a simple cardboard slipcase?

The bottom line -- this is absolutely the best jazz box I own. It definitely goes to the desert island, perhaps even if nothing else does. John, McCoy, Jimmy, and Elvin: Thank you, and God bless you!

Essential.......2006-09-03

I won't use this space to review the incredible music of the John Coltrane Quartet. Completely unnecessary!

Some reviewers and commentators dislike the presentation of the pieces in the order of their recording rather than organized by albums. I think this is a minor quibble, especially considering that the transition from the LP-era to the CD-era has already "mixed things up" considerably. For example, the modern CD issue of the album "Transition" drops "Dear Lord" and adds two pieces from "Kulu Se Mama." "Dear Lord" shows up on "Dear Old Stockholm," which was not a '60s Coltrane album. "Living Space"-- a current CD-- did not exist then. Some Coltrane pieces ("Vilia" and "Dear Old Stockholm") were released on contemporary albums featuring numerous artists ("The Definitive Jazz Scene, Vols 1, 2 and 3"). The posthumous albums "The Mastery of John Coltrane, Volumes 1 and 2" do not at all appear on CD-- the pieces were diverted to other CDs. So, putting his works in recording order makes sense to me.

A few albums, such as "Sun Ship," the quartet version of "Meditations" and "A Love Supreme," do appear on this collection with all tracks together.

If you have an iPod and a Mac, you can "recreate" the original albums, in proper track order.

The boxed set is limited to studio recordings performed by the classic quartet (with a few minor allowances at drums and bass), thus two pieces from "Impressions" are missing-- you can find them on the Complete 1961 Village Vanguard set--and only two pieces from "Live at Birdland" are included, for example "Alabama." I wish they had made another exception and included the title track to the album "Kulu Se Mama," thus bringing that album completely into this set.

I do agree that it is a shame that the album covers and original liner notes are missing. And I am glad that I have the "A Love Supreme" CD separately.

Great for collectors.......2006-03-04

Being a jazz saxophonist and have always been influenced by Coltrane, this box set was worth checking out. Every tune is a gem! Everything from his ballads to Sun Ship and Expression are on here.

If you don't own it already, I would also recommend Coltrane buyers to check out Heavyweight Champion: The Complete Atlantic Recordings if you're looking for high amounts of Coltrane material.

This one is a no-brainer.......2005-11-16

The question is really, is this worth the money? Yes, it is. In fact, if you are just delving into coltrane for the first time. Don't buy an album, with Trane more than anyone else, there is no definitive album. So save up a little money, and start here. You may SAVE alot of money by starting with this.

Average customer rating:

The Impulse Story
Gato Barbieri
Manufacturer: Impulse Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Argentina | South & Central America | International | Styles | Music

General | Latin Music | Styles | Music

Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000F8DT9G
Release Date: 2006-06-06

Tracks:

Nunca Mas (Complete Version)
India
Encontros (Complete Version)
Latino America
Gato Gato
Cuando Vuelva A Tu Lado (What A Difference A Day Makes)
Viva Emilliano Zapata
El Sublime
Milonga Triste
To Be Continued

Average customer rating:

Standard forever arrangements on great music
It gets no better....
A must have
PURE GENIUS...
Very Mellow

The Quintessence
Quincy Jones
Manufacturer: Impulse!
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Swing General | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

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This Is How I Feel About Jazz/Go West, Man!

ASIN: B000024HSJ
Release Date: 1997-03-17

Tracks:

Quintessence
Robert Portrait
Little Karen
Straight, No Chaser
For Lena and Lennie
Hard Sock Dance
Invitation
Twitch

Customer Reviews:

Standard forever arrangements on great music.......2006-02-18

Two features must be pointed out about this album: the impressive material and the band performance.

Here you'll find the intricate Bronislau Kaper's 'Invitation' in a sensational and definitive arrangement. What about Thelonious Monk's 'Straight no Chaser'?

Truly, the quintessence of the best department of Mr. Quincy Jones' musical kaleidoscope.

It gets no better...........2001-12-31

Having found out about Quincy Jones' jazz background by pure accident, I can't seem to get enough of his early recordings. I heard tracks from this cd on my local jazz station and didn't stop until I had it(I could only find it at Amazon!!). Every aspect of every recording flows together perfectly. It has just about everything a jazz fan could want.

A must have.......2001-11-10

Whether you are a jazz aficionado or just want to add a few jazz albums to your repertoire, this album needs to be included. The textures of the songs, the arrangements make this the perfect jazz album. The band personnel which reads like a who's who flows through each sultry voicing and blasts with the confidence of a winner, which is what they are. Get this, you wont be disapointed.

PURE GENIUS..........2000-10-03

If I were told I was going to have to live on a desert island for the rest of my life, and I was only allowed to take 5 jazz records, this album would be one of them. I don't hand out the "genius" title very easily, but it's simple in this case... Quincy Jones IS a genius.

Very Mellow.......2000-04-07

I have Always Dug Quincy Jones's Work Be it As Producer or as Artist.I dug Quincy&Bands take on Straight No Chaser.this disc is very mellow&The Arrangements are Solid.

Music:

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