John Coltrane (tenor sax) resumed his association with
Rudy Van Gelder's Prestige label on a late March 1957 "all-star" session alongside
Idrees Sulieman (trumpet),
Webster Young (trumpet),
Bobby Jaspar (tenor sax),
Kenny Burrell (guitar),
Paul Chambers (bass),
Art Taylor (drums), and de facto arranger/songwriter
Mal Waldron. This interesting blend of instrumentalists lives up to its potential as well as the equally intriguing
Interplay for 2 Trumpets and 2 Tenors (1957). In fact, the appropriately named "Interplay" is up first with the melody extracting a feel that, while deeply entrenched in bop, has undeniable roots in Dixieland.
Sulieman is exceptional with his melodic and thoughtful contributions, although it seems to be
Coltrane who drives the theme the furthest. The tune's call-and-response structure doesn't fetter
Coltrane as he pushes boundaries, pointing in the direction his music would continue to take.
Kenny Burell gets some space to stretch out on the understated and refined cool of "Anatomy." After the horns collectively establish the midtempo groove, listeners are treated to sublime solos via the stringed mastery of both the guitarist's fluid fret runs and
Chambers' warm and playful bowed bass.
Waldron picks back up for a few bars before handing things over to the brass. Note
Sulieman's focus and strength as his flurry is a perfect springboard for
Coltrane's criminally short interjections. Just like its name suggests, "Light Blue" presents the essence of the blues in a practically playful manner. After the short but sweet intro -- featuring some excellent comping by
Burrell --
Waldron's presence evolves into weaving phrases clearly inspired by the guitarist. It is fascinating how
Coltrane "gets up to speed," as if his portion is joined already in-progress and fully formed. The trumpets and tenor saxes collectively create a warm, intimate, and inviting harmonic embrace.
Burrell is sublime, as are
Waldon's accents to his detailed string work, while
Young's muted sound conjures the cool and sweet of
Miles Davis.
Coltrane's confidence soars and his playing is unquestionably ahead of its time.