Alice Coltrane

Translinear Light

2005-02-06

Sixty-seven year-old Alice Coltrane (widow of the legendary John) is joined by sons Ravi and Oran and other great names in jazz – Charlie Haden, Jack DeJohnette and Jeff “Tain” Waits – in this set, Alice’s first major recording in over 20 years.

She’s chosen three main themes to express her art – Indian/Hindu structures (#1, #4, #11); traditional spiritual/gospel foundations (#2, #5, #6); and homages to her departed husband (#7, #8, #9). The results are inspiring, sometimes challenging, but mostly rewarding. I’m drawn more to her piano work than the Wurlitzer or synthesizer numbers, but her talent shines in them all. (And thanks to a great supporting cast, too: Check out DeJohnette’s drum solo in “Leo.”)

Just as we’ve missed her husband, we’ve missed Alice, too. It is good – and important – to have her back.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Jazz

  • reviewed 08/2011

    HIROMI
    Voice

  • reviewed 08/2017

    Michael Gamble And The Rhythm Serenaders
    Get Rhythm In Your Feet

  • reviewed 07/2007

    THE MACPODZ
    Genius Food for Superheroes

  • reviewed 01/2005

    Kermit Ruffins
    Putumayo Presents Kermit Ruffins

  • reviewed 07/2007

    TOM GAVORNIK
    A Long Time Ago...

  • reviewed 05/2016

    Lou Caputo Not So Big Band
    Uh Oh!

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.