Coltrane, Alice
Impulse, 2004, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 11.1
Jazz Ruler Type: Fusion
Performance: 3
Sound: 4
Score: 
O’s Notes: Returning to the music scene after a 24-year hiatus, Alice (now 67 years old) gives us a truly spiritual and introspective session. She played piano alongside her famous husband John and there are some memories here with a couple of his songs. The balance are traditional favorites and Alice’s own compositions. The accompanying musicians are well-established including her son, producer Ravi, Charlie Haden (b), and drummers Jeff “Tain” Watts and Jack DeJohnette. They start with a Mid-eastern/Indian feel thanks to the rolling sound highlighted by the Wurlitzer. This contrasts with the more relaxed grooves when Alice is playing piano. They alternate between the two modes with strong in what is a new extension of Coltrane career.