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THE REVIEW
April 23, 1967, invited to perform to promote the newly founded cultural center in New York by the African percussionist Olatunji, Coltrane decides to pay out of his own pocket for the recording of the event.
Devoured by the illness that will kill him, he knows his days are numbered. This awareness, combined with the will to document the latest developments of his inexhaustible search, drives him to pay out of his own pocket for the recording of the evening: this forms the content of "The Olatunji Concert", released in 2001 by Impulse.
The two long, extended pieces, "Ogunde" and "My Favourite Things", bring back to life a Coltrane who forcefully returns to earth, planting his hands to dig in search of his roots (the Africa of the cover), and from the roots, finally ascend to the sublime: his saxophone and that of Sanders scream loudly in a tight call-and-response, for strong is the pain of one's fate, even more so if it's already known to be written. Around them, the two percussionists and drummer Rashied Ali seem to want to induce a trance state through a shamanic rite, while Alice Coltrane's psychedelic piano ups and downs seem to want to help her husband in his ascent, in a heartfelt farewell; only the double bass of loyal Garrison engages in the challenge, lost from the start, of maintaining some foothold with reality.
Of extreme intensity and physicality, this live leaves one stunned and exhausted by its beauty, beauty that might elude lovers of round and clean recordings, but will inevitably capture all those who care about the essence of music, rather than just its form.
A live supreme: the spirit continues!
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Summary by Bot
The Olatunji Concert captures John Coltrane's final live performance in 1967, marked by raw intensity and spiritual depth. Facing terminal illness, Coltrane personally financed the recording to document his evolving sound. The lengthy tracks feature powerful saxophone dialogues and shamanic percussion rhythms, creating a transcendent farewell. Despite its unpolished sound, the concert resonates with listeners who value musical essence over production polish. Overall, it stands as a stunning testament to Coltrane's profound musical journey.
John Coltrane
John William Coltrane (1926–1967) was an American jazz saxophonist and composer, a major figure in 20th-century jazz who helped pioneer modal jazz and later free jazz. He is known for his intense improvisations, 'sheets of sound' technique, and landmark recordings on Atlantic and Impulse! Records.38 Reviews
