It is with such a sense of pride and nostalgia writing a review on jazz great, tenor saxophonist John Coltrane’s ‘Giant Steps’, being one of the first jazz albums released during this writer’s tenure with music label Magnasound – the then exclusive license for Warner Music – in 1989.

The centre point of the recording remains focused on Coltrane's tenor solos with all seven pieces issued on the original ‘Giant Steps’ vinyl being Coltrane compositions. The original musicians featured then were Cedar Walton (piano), Paul Chambers (bass), and Lex Humphries (drums).

Each one of the songs showcased the marvels of soloing with a personal favourite being Countdown (Side A, song 3), whereas Naima, one of Coltrane’s most exquisite ballads, was the last tune to be recorded for the album (in December 1959; all others were recorded in May), which featured a line-up of new musicians, including pianist Tommy Wynton Kelly and drummer Jimmy Cobb. Bassist Paul Chambers was retained from the original sessions and was the inspiration behind the album’s closing track, Mr P.C.

‘Giant Steps’ is undoubtedly more of a personal album than any of Coltrane’s others. Three of the tracks were dedicated to family members. Syeeda’s Song Flute is perhaps the most revealing with the song being named after Coltrane’s stepdaughter; then there is Cousin Mary and the aforementioned Naima, dedicated to Coltrane’s first wife (who was originally known as Juanita Grubbs).

Coltrane’s approach to the album was groundbreaking at that time, as he used a new harmonic structure that would soon be dubbed as the “Coltrane changes”.This involved the use of rapidly changing chords that were often upto four steps apart (and, hence, the album being called ‘Giant Steps’).

One of the most impressive aspects of ‘Giant Steps’ is the manner in which John Coltrane was able to seamlessly blend complex musical ideas with a sense of spontaneity and improvisation. He took risks with his playing that was unthinkable in that era, and (t)his willingness to experiment and explore unique sounds and concepts continues to make ‘Giant Steps’ such a timeless classic.

Coltrane’s legacy as one of the most innovative and influential jazz musicians of all time is perhaps nowhere more evident than on ‘Giant Steps’, an album that continues to inspire and captivate both musicians and listeners more than sixty four years after its release.

Release: February 1960

Recorded: May and December, 1959

Duration: 37:30 minutes

Rating: ****

Reviewed by Parag Kamani

Parag Kamani has been part of the media and entertainment industry across 35 years, having worked for licensors such as Warner Music and EMI/Virgin in music, as well as Warner Bros, Universal Pictures, and Paramount Pictures in the field of films. Parag continues pursuing his passion as a profession.