LPCDreissues: Looking forward to the past

John Coltrane's music is generally known for its extraordinarily high level of energy and intensity. What is not often said about Coltrane is that he is also one of 20th-century music's great melodists. No better examples of melodic, romantic saxophone playing exist than those contained in this CD. Culled from his earliest sessions as a leader (1957-1958), by which time he had already played extensively with Miles Davis and Thelonious Monk, these tracks rank among Trane's most haunting and beautiful performances. Signature pieces like Billy Strayhorn's "Lush Life" and Billy Eckstine's "I Want to Talk About You" are side by side with classic American standards such as "Stardust" and "Like Someone in Love." This collection also includes the overlooked ballad gems "Slow Dance" and "While My Lady Sleeps." Consistently sympathetic accompaniment from his regular studio companions of the day--pianist Red Garland, bassist Paul Chambers, and drummer Arthur Taylor--only serves to enhance the overall results. If you're looking for music that will put you in the mood, this is the place to start.I Want to Talk About You, Violets for Your Furs, Invitation, Slow Dance, Lush Life, Like Someone in Love, Stardust, While My Lady Sleeps, You Leave Me Breathless with Red Garland, Paul Chambers, Arthur Taylor, Albert "Tootie" Heath, Wilbur Harden, Jimmy Cobb, Donald Byrd, Louis Hayes, Earl May, Johnny Splawn, Mal Waldron