A historical piece was pressed for the first time this month. Found in a box at the New York Library, this mono recording used a single RCA ribbon microphone above the stage, with a line running to a reel-to-reel tape recorder. Rich Alderson, the sound engineer essentially was experimenting and never intended this for release.
We are all glad they found it and did release it. This is a very special album that is not for everyone, but it is a must-have for any diehard Coltrane or Dolphy fan. In all honesty, it was Dolphy that had me giddy when I heard about this. He is electric on this album. It is hard to explain the dynamics here without listening. Along with Dolphy, Elvin Jones is a key highlight. The microphone seems to be very close to Jones’ drum kit, as it is extremely prominent on each track. Jones is such a key part of Coltrane’s performance here and in many other occasions. He truly shines.
This album also represents the only known live recording of Africa, Coltrane’s epic piece from Africa Brass Sessions.
Although the recording quality is not great, this is a meaningful album to own. If you are a fan, this will give you chills on a first listen.
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