On Tue, 27 Aug 2002 17:12:33 -0700 skip Heller <velaires(a)earthlink.net> wrote:
> it doesn't sound to me
> like the group identity of which you speak was > ever realized. emphasize
"to
> me".
With all due respect, this is one of those comparatively rare instances where
I have to step in and say, "SKIP HELLER IS WRONG." (Though he's certainly
entitled to his opinion.)
The last Coltrane group is so vastly UNDERrated it's just plain sad, and in
particular, Alice's role (though I can't say I'm so blown away with every
album that's currently being reissued in the ongoing rehabilitation of her
career). Even supporters fall prey to unwitting condescension - witness Bill
Shoemaker's recent Jazz Times review, where he basically credits Alice with
rolling up her sleeves and going to work like all good widows do, completely
disregarding her distinguished career preceding the years with Trane. Uggh.
To my earrs, the late group created a striking, singular sound and maintained
it for a few short, incandescent years. And yes, while a great many musicians
did sit in with the band in its not-quite-final years, on record the
quartet/quintet is emphasized to great advantage.
The posthumously released 'Stellar Regions' just reaffirms how tragic Trane's
death was - the group was clearly on the cusp of something new, including a
newborn synthesis of the later expressionistic style and the earlier sense of
form and structure.
Graham, I'm most certainly among those waiting eagerly for John's book. Please
keep us posted on further developments.
Steve Smith
ssmith36(a)sprynet.com
NP - Beethoven, 'Fidelio' - Vienna State Opera / Maazel (London)
