John Coltrane Quartet - Ballads

Experience the warmer side of John Coltrane with this limited edition pressing of his classic album, 'Ballads'. This 180g red coloured vinyl features the complete album plus four bonus tracks, including 'They Say It's Wonderful', 'Naima', 'Greensleeves', and 'Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye'. The release includes newly prepared liner notes by Brian Morton of Penguin Guide to Jazz and Jazz Magazine.

John Coltrane, a pioneer who opened the way to free jazz, explored long and complex improvisations. While 'Ballads' is considered more conventional than his immediate predecessors, it became an instant classic, cherished by both devoted jazz fans and casual listeners. The album showcases Coltrane's exploration of melodic lines, with some critics noting his return to standards while others found it a departure from his freer compositions. The duet performance of 'They Say It's Wonderful' between Coltrane and Tyner is a standout, offering a deeply moving musical experience.

• Limited edition pressing on 180g red coloured vinyl
• Includes the complete album plus 4 bonus tracks
• New specially prepared liner notes by esteemed jazz writers
• Features iconic performances by the John Coltrane Quartet

This LP is a testament to Coltrane's versatility, offering a glimpse into the warmer, more lyrical aspects of his artistry, a path he would later explore with collaborators like Johnny Hartman and Duke Ellington. The interplay with McCoy Tyner on this recording is particularly noteworthy, with moments that positively shimmer.