John Coltrane - Blue Train (1957) [Official Digital Download]

Tenor saxophonist John Coltrane was one of the most innovative, influential and respected figures in jazz history. In 1957, Coltrane created a masterpiece with the release of Blue Train. The album has been widely regarded by both fans and critics as one of the greatest jazz records of all time. It was his second album as a band leader and found him accompanied by greats including Lee Morgan, Curtis Fuller, Kenny Drew, Paul Chambers and “Philly” Joe Jones. The album is a scintillating display of Coltrane’s innate leadership abilities. The stunning horn arrangements add a unique distinction symbolic of Coltrane and his band. A showcase of his versatility, Coltrane soars through tunes including “I’m Old Fashioned” and “Lazy Bird”.
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.

About the Mastering: High Resolution Mastering by Alan Yoshida and Robin Lynn at Blanche DuBois, April 2012.
“In preparing these hi def remasters, we were very conscientious about maintaining the feel of the original releases while adding a previously unattainable transparency and depth. It now sounds like you've set up your chaise lounge right in the middle of Rudy Van Gelder's studio!” - Blue Note President, Don Was.

Analyzed: John Coltrane / Blue Train
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DR Peak RMS Duration Track
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DR13 -1.60 dB -17.73 dB 10:43 01-Blue Train
DR12 -1.28 dB -16.24 dB 9:09 02-Moment's Notice
DR13 -0.34 dB -16.36 dB 7:15 03-Locomotion
DR13 -1.77 dB -18.54 dB 7:58 04-I'm Old Fashioned
DR12 -2.18 dB -17.09 dB 7:06 05-Lazy Bird
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Number of tracks: 5
Official DR value: DR13

Samplerate: 192000 Hz
Channels: 2
Bits per sample: 24
Bitrate: 6731 kbps
Codec: FLAC