Back in 1965, John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme was released and changed the direction of popular music since. Not only was the album a musical tour de force, but the entire theme behind the album, dedicating oneself to God, was a concept that had been hinted at in various songs, but never during an entire album. The legacy lives on, here on this limited run diamond vinyl pressing in celebration of its anniversary. .
As the liner notes state, John Coltrane was going through a spiritual renaissance, returning in one sense to his Christian roots (his father was a deacon), but also to a more worldwide aspect. Coltrane’s previous albums with this band of Elvin Jones/dr, Jimmy Garrison/b and McCoy Tyner/p had been important and groundbreaking affairs, but the intensity of this album, essentially of spontaneous compositions was so visceral and life changing for all involved that the long standing band broke up soon afterwards. This was a going out in glory.
The droned intro with vocal chant of “Acknowledgement”, fire intensity of “Resolution” , drum intro and piano work on “Pursuance” and meditative recitative of “Psalm” (with guest appearances by Art Davis/b and Archie Shepp/ts) have no need to be commented on. Unlike other songs associated with Coltrane such as “Giant Steps”, “My Favorite Things” and even “Impressions”, few artists have attempted to do cover versions of these songs, as they are performed here so personally, it is almost always comes of as an insult or faint copy instead of tribute. It’s like repeating someone else’s prayers. Many aspire, few attain.