The most influential female instrumentalist in the world of jazz, Alice Coltrane originated so many strands of the genre that trying to grasp even the tiniest part of her work is akin to a trip in a few different dimensions. Apart from the American genius’ prodigious solo oeuvre, there are platters she recorded with husband John, Roland Kirk, McCoy Tyner, Charlie Haden and, of course, Carlos Santana, yet the lady wasn’t served well with live albums, her “Carnegie Hall ’71” – issued posthumously in 2018 – being Alice’s greatest concert document. Until now – or, rather, March 22nd.
Accompanied by a stellar ensemble, including reedmen Pharoah Sanders and Archie Shepp, on that day Ms. Coltrane performed four pieces, while the aforementioned release featured only one, “Africa” by John; and that’s what “The Carnegie Hall Concert” will remedy, as the disc, or double-LP, has the entire set on it, with a couple of pieces from the artiste’s then-fresh “Journey In Satchidananda” album. A milestone which should not be missed out on.
1. Journey In Satchidananda
2. Shiva-Loka
3. Africa
4. Leo