Album Review: John Coltrane Quartet – Crescent
Released: July 1964
Label: Impulse! Records
Personnel: John Coltrane (tenor saxophone), McCoy Tyner (piano), Jimmy Garrison (bass), Elvin Jones (drums)
Introduction:
John Coltrane Quartet's "Crescent" is a seminal jazz album that showcases the legendary saxophonist's evolving artistry during a pivotal period in his career. Released in 1964, this album often stands in the shadow of Coltrane's more famous works, such as A Love Supreme, but it is an equally profound and introspective record that reflects Coltrane's deepening spiritual and musical journey.
Musical Content:
Crescent is a deeply contemplative album, marked by its introspective mood and complex, yet accessible compositions. The album features five tracks, each one a testament to the quartet's incredible synergy and Coltrane's mastery of his instrument.
"Crescent": The title track opens the album with a haunting, almost meditative theme. Coltrane's tenor saxophone is both lyrical and searching, conveying a sense of yearning that permeates the entire piece. McCoy Tyner's piano comping and Jimmy Garrison's bass lines provide a harmonic foundation that is both rich and understated, while Elvin Jones' drumming adds a subtle intensity.
"Wise One": This track is a highlight of the album, often cited as one of Coltrane's most beautiful compositions. "Wise One" features a poignant melody that feels both ancient and timeless, with Coltrane's saxophone conveying a deep sense of wisdom and melancholy. Tyner's piano solo is equally moving, adding to the track's emotional depth.
"Bessie's Blues": The third track lightens the mood with a more traditional, blues-infused composition. "Bessie's Blues" showcases the quartet's ability to swing effortlessly, with Coltrane delivering a joyful and spirited performance. Tyner, Garrison, and Jones lock into a tight groove, demonstrating their impeccable sense of timing and rhythm.
"Lonnie's Lament": Another introspective piece, "Lonnie's Lament" is marked by its mournful tone and slow, deliberate pace. Coltrane's saxophone voice is sorrowful and reflective, with Garrison's bass taking on a prominent role in setting the track's somber mood. The piece has an almost elegiac quality, as if Coltrane is paying tribute to someone or something lost.
"The Drum Thing": The album closes with "The Drum Thing," a track that places Elvin Jones' drumming front and center. This piece is more experimental in nature, with Coltrane providing sparse saxophone lines that allow Jones to explore a wide range of rhythms and textures. The track feels like a meditation on rhythm itself, showcasing the quartet's willingness to push the boundaries of traditional jazz.
Performance and Composition:
The John Coltrane Quartet was one of the most influential ensembles in jazz history, and Crescent captures them at the height of their powers. Coltrane's playing is deeply expressive, ranging from the serene to the explosive, always imbued with a sense of purpose and spiritual searching. McCoy Tyner's piano work is as sophisticated as ever, providing both harmonic support and moments of lyrical beauty. Jimmy Garrison's bass playing is solid and grounding, yet always with a melodic sensibility that complements Coltrane's lines. Elvin Jones' drumming is nothing short of masterful, with his polyrhythmic approach adding layers of complexity and dynamism to the music.
Production:
The album's production is clean and unobtrusive, allowing the performances to speak for themselves. Recorded at the famed Van Gelder Studio, the sound quality is excellent, with each instrument clearly defined in the mix. The production choices, like keeping the arrangements relatively sparse, let the emotional weight of the music come through without distraction.
Conclusion:
Crescent is a profound and moving album that captures John Coltrane and his quartet in a period of transition. While it may not have the immediate impact of A Love Supreme, it is a deeply rewarding listen that reveals new depths with each revisit. The album's introspective nature and spiritual undertones make it a unique entry in Coltrane's discography, and an essential listen for any jazz aficionado. Through its five tracks, Crescent offers a glimpse into the soul of one of jazz's greatest innovators, making it a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and captivate listeners.
Comments