Coltrane's only official Blue Note release during his lifetime, and many say his best all around album. Although I prefer A Love Supreme in its soulful experimentation and breaking of standard jazz ideals, Blue Train and Giant Steps are my favorite Trane albums within the standard Jazz boundary (it's an easy call for the newbie and advanced listener). The intro to the title track is an all-time classic entrance. Then Trane busts the curtains playing faster than the speed of our thought. Many say this is also some of the best work of trumpeter Lee Morgan, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer "Philly" Joe Jones as Trane shares the spotlight on all of the tracks equally. Many call it essential, but we'll settle for damn good. High quality 180 gram pressing.

• 180g black vinyl pressing
• featuring John Coltrane (t. sax), Lee Morgan (t), Curtis Fuller (trombone), Kenny Drew (p), Paul Chambers (b), Philly Joe Jones (d)
• original release year: 1957
• music label: Blue Note 2013

reviewed by the mgmnt 11/2005