Coltrane’s challenging style gets free rein in ‘First’ edition

Spencer Patterson

Friday, Jan. 16, 2004 | 8:22 a.m.

It's easy to dismiss John Coltrane's "First Meditations" as a non-essential oddity in his massive Impulse! Records catalog.

The disc, recorded in 1965 but not released until 1977, is often written off as a lesser version of the acclaimed "Meditations" album recorded just three months later.

Having owned both for more than a decade, however, I am of the firm opinion that Coltrane's first swing through the material is the more successful of the two, making it an indispensable contribution by the legendary saxman.

"First Meditations" is also known as "First Meditations (for quartet)," a title that reveals much about the musical differences between the two "Meditations" albums.

"First Meditations" showcases the last recording session by Coltrane and his classic quartet: pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Jimmy Garrison and drummer Elvin Jones.

"Meditations" also features those four players, but they are supplemented by two additional sidemen, saxophonist Pharoah Sanders and drummer Rasheed Ali.

The presence of Sanders and Ali -- musicians known for helping Coltrane create some of the most avant-garde work of his later years -- leaves less space for Trane to operate, changing the mood of the work considerably.

"First Meditations" is also presented with improved sequencing, opening with majestic first movement "Love," perhaps my favorite of all Coltrane compositions.

As Tyner, Garrison and Jones create a swirling backing pallet, the innovative tenor saxman works his way up and down his extensive range. Some passages may sound dissonant to timid ears, but there's no denying the emotion in every note.

That spirit of adventure continues over the remaining tracks, songs with names to fit their expressive nature: "Compassion," "Joy" and "Serenity."

Be forewarned: "First Meditations" is not for dinner parties. Like so many of Coltrane's late recordings, the disc is an intense listening experience, but one very rewarding for those willing to invest the energy.

If you don't already own the Coltrane classics -- "Giant Steps," "My Favorite Things," "Blue Train" and "A Love Supreme," you should begin there. But if those, particularly the latter, appeal to you, "First Meditations" might be a good next purchase.

Sadly, Impulse! has yet to reissue the album with remastered sound and deluxe liner notes, something it did for "Meditations" in 1996. The original 1992 CD version is quite listenable, however, and is still available from most retailers.

Artist: John Coltrane.

Title: "First Meditations."

Year of release: 1977 (Recorded 1965) (Impulse!/GRP Records)

Tracklisting: "Love," "Compassion," "Joy," "Consequences," "Serenity," "Joy" (alternate version).