John Coltrane Quartet – Crescent VG+/VG+

John Coltrane’s Crescent, released in 1964, is a journey into the heart of his saxophone mastery alongside his legendary quartet. Backed by the formidable talents of McCoy Tyner on piano, Jimmy Garrison on bass, and Elvin Jones on drums, Coltrane explores a range of moods on this album. The title track itself, “Crescent,” unfolds as a meditative ballad, showcasing a patient Coltrane eventually giving way to a swinging groove. This introspective quality lays the groundwork for the entire album, offering a glimpse into the spiritual depths Coltrane would plumb further on his masterpiece, A Love Supreme, released later that same year.

Crescent isn’t entirely a ballad album though. The focus is more on a softer side of Coltrane, with accessible melodies and a tight, cohesive sound from the quartet. This doesn’t mean there aren’t moments of fire – Coltrane’s improvisational brilliance is always present, but here it’s woven into a tapestry of thoughtful composition and deep emotional resonance. If you’re looking for a chance to sit back and immerse yourself in the rich soundscapes of classic jazz, Crescent is a perfect place to start.