John Coltrane - Giant Steps [180g Vinyl LP]

Giant Steps stands as one of the most influential jazz records of all time, representing John Coltrane's breakthrough as a composer and bandleader. Released in January 1960, this was Coltrane's first album devoted entirely to his own compositions, confirming his towering command of tenor saxophone and his emerging power as a composer. Recorded just two weeks after the final recording session for Miles Davis's Kind Of Blue, the album showcases Coltrane's evolution from sideman to visionary leader, establishing harmonic concepts that would influence generations of jazz musicians.

The album balances ecstatic, high-speed technical displays with interludes of subtle, concise lyricism, creating a masterwork of contrasts and emotional depth. Standout tracks include the title track "Giant Steps," the tender ballad "Naima," and the driving "Cousin Mary," each demonstrating different aspects of Coltrane's compositional genius. The classic ballad "Naima" serves as a calm refuge from the furious, expansive solos, while tracks like "Naima" and "Syeeda's Song Flute" are respectively named after Coltrane's wife at the time and her daughter.

This 180-gram vinyl pressing captures the full dynamic range and harmonic complexity that made Giant Steps a watershed moment in jazz history. The heavyweight vinyl ensures optimal tracking and minimal surface noise, allowing listeners to experience every nuance of Coltrane's revolutionary saxophone work and the stellar rhythm section featuring Paul Chambers on bass. The album attained gold record status in 2018, having sold 500,000 copies, confirming its enduring appeal and essential place in any serious jazz collection.

• Format: 180g Black Vinyl LP
• Standout tracks: "Giant Steps," "Naima," "Cousin Mary"
• Pressing details: 180g vinyl, remastered from original Atlantic Records tapes
• Genre/style: Hard Bop, Jazz, Post-Bop, Modal Jazz
• UPC: 081227520311

This reissue allows jazz enthusiasts to experience Coltrane's compositional masterpiece with the warmth and presence that only vinyl can provide. An essential addition to any collection celebrating the giants of jazz.

* The Spotify track list may not exactly represent the tracks and audio of this LP edition.

Track List:

Side A:

1. Giant Steps
2. Cousin Mary
3. Countdown
4. Spiral

Side B:

1. Syeeda's Song Flute
2. Naima
3. Mr. P.C.