TRAIN KEPT A ROLLIN’

John Coltrane was an American jazz saxophonist, composer, and bandleader. He was also one of the most influential and innovative musicians of the 20th century and is considered one of the greatest saxophonists of all time. Coltrane rose to prominence as a sideman for several legendary jazz musicians, including Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, before forming his own groups and releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums under his own name. Of these, 1958’s Blue Train is arguably the most enduringly popular.

Blue Train was recorded in September 1957 and was Coltrane's second album as leader. The album is notable for its strong lineup of talented musicians, each of whom makes a significant contribution to the overall sound of the record. Coltrane's tenor playing is the centrepiece of the album, displaying his characteristic virtuosity and soulful expressiveness on every track. But let’s be clear. Everybody more than pulls their weight here. Throughout the set the frontline of Lee Morgan on trumpet and Curtis Fuller on trombone is ably supported by pianist Kenny Drew, bass player Paul Chambers, and drummer Philly Joe Jones.

Comprising four Coltrane originals and one 'standard' (Jerome Kern and Johnny Mercer’s "I’m Old Fashioned"), Blue Train is bursting with energy and creativity. Every solo—from the moment 'Trane steps forward after the introduction to "Blue Train" through to Kenny Drew’s sparkling piano break in closing number "Lazy Bird"—is charged and focussed; it’s as if the entire group was riffing off the leader’s intensity and giving it their best. (Incidentally, if you have never considered the trombone a soulful instrument, this is the LP to change your mind; Fuller is terrific.) Throughout the program the leader displays his mastery, throwing down quick runs and long, flowing lines that convey a sense of motion and momentum. Other standout tracks include "Moment's Notice" which features a series of solos by Coltrane, Morgan, and Fuller, and the aforementioned "Lazy Bird," a ballad showcasing Coltrane's lyrical side.

The production quality of Blue Train is worth mentioning. The sound is clear and spacious, with each instrument given room in the mix. Recorded in mono—the standard at the time—the recording has held up well over the years and still sounds fresh and vibrant, especially on the 2022 Blue Note Tone Poet re-issue.

Blue Train is a classic album that is highly regarded by jazz fans yet remains accessible to those less familiar with this rich and varied genre of music. It is a 'must listen' for anyone interested in Coltrane's work or in the hard bop sub-genre of jazz while also being a glowing testament to Coltrane's unending quest for creative expression. Blue Train’s longevity is attributable to its creative yet engaging exploration of blues themes, a feat rarely achieved before or since. This produced a work of lasting quality that delighted both critics and fans on release and will continue to do so as long as people are curious about jazz. This train just keeps rolling.

© Bruce Jenkins—February 2023