ALICE COLTRANE
Translinear Light
Label
· I'd say (if I had the power) the best jazz album of 2004.
This album marks the return of Alice Coltrane after a 26-year hiatus from the limelight. Coltrane spent that time establishing herself as a devotee of Swami Satchidananda and adopted the Hindu name Turiya. From the moment the recording begins, Coltrane’s trademark rhythmically ambiguous arpeggios are obvious, but now they’re drenched in Eastern melodies and spiritualism. She is featured on the piano and Wurlitzer organ complemented by her featured musicians, including her sons Ravi and Oran. The legend of John Coltrane lives on in his sons as well as his wife, who recontextualizes two of his tunes, "Crescent" and "Leo." Coltrane’s roots in gospel come across as authoritative and recognizable in her version of "Walk With Me." The interplay you hear between her and Ravi is a conversation that will compel you to listen intently. Translinear Light is not only Coltrane’s return to jazz, but a convincing portrait of an artist, composer and improviser.
|
Copyright ©2004 FFWD. All rights reserved.