John Coltrane-Blue Train (1957)

John Coltrane's second album for Blue Note Records is considered one of the masterpieces of the hard bop jazz subgenre. In this release, Coltrane doesn't attempt to explore the rich timbres or musical color of his later, more avant-garde albums like "A Love Supreme", nor does it exhibit the coldness of contemporary albums such as Miles Davis's "Kind of Blue". However, "Blue Train" showcases a repertoire of iconic hard bop with outstanding instrumental performances from all the musicians involved, especially the horn section comprised of Coltrane himself, trumpeter Lee Morgan, and trombonist Curtis Fuller. In 1957, Lee Morgan was one of the most popular young trumpet players, and it would be a few more years before he reached his artistic peak with his album "The Sidewinder", Curtis Fuller, meanwhile, was at the height of his powers thanks to his exquisite solo albums "New Trombone" and "Bone & Bari". Added to this lineup were pianist Kenny Drew, a regular on the Blue Note label, and the rhythm section comprised of Paul Chambers on bass and Philly Joe Jones on drums. Featuring four Coltrane compositions and a cover of a Johnny Mercer and Jerome Kern song, the album explores melodic and dynamic paths, such as the opening track "Blue Train", or the fluid "Moments Notice" and "Lazy Bird". The tranquil ballad "I'm Old Fashioned", on the other hand, provides the perfect counterpoint to all the previous tracks, the only harmonious respite from the rapid and continuous changes of rhythm that characterize this outstanding recording.