Coltrane for Christmas

by Anthony Medici in Album Reviews, New Releases, Opinion Posts

Assuming you have any money left following our current economic downturn, or, almost as good perhaps, know someone who does, let me recommend a few gift ideas. I figure this is safer bet than slagging jazz magazines, or knocking a certain jazz radio station, but who knows. So, here are some ideas for you and yours to consider.

John Coltrane- FEARLESS LEADER- Box Set. Coltrane’s leader dates for Prestige in chronological order and in newly remastered pristing sound. Coltrane and Christmas go together like “J” and “C”.

John Coltrane- INTERPLAY- Box Set- Coltrane’s sideman sessions for Prestige; again, newly remastered and sounding great.

I’m told that there is a third box set on the way that would complete Coltrane’s Prestige recordings; if so, that would give us the complete Prestige recordings in top-quality sound. I hope so. BTW, search around for these sets. I found mine for less than $40 each, including shipping. Can’t have to much Coltrane, can you?

Miles Davis- THE COMPLETE ON THE CORNER SESSIONS- Box Set- Can this be the last Miles box set from Columbia? Hard to believe; seems like an endless supply of Miles. And that’s a good thing. I know a lot of folks dislike– or think they dislike– electric Miles. That would be a mistake. I fid the treasures abundant in this body of work. Grow your ears and give this a listen.

Miles Davis- 50TH ANNIVERSARY KIND OF BLUE- Box Set- Do we really need yet another edition of KOB? This set has a blue vinyl LP, a DVD, a book, two CDs with some new music, and who knows what else. For all we know, they may have included a hair follicle from Miles. This is one of those made for collector items that seems just right for gift giving. Maybe you can get your Aunt Gertie or Uncle Ernie to shell out for it.

Anthony Braxton- THE COMPLETE ARISTA RECORDINGS- Mosaic Records box set. Another great set from Mosaic. I ordered mine right away when I heard of it forthcoming and received a set in the 500s. I think this will sell fast. When it’s sold out, you’ll wish you had it, and will pay dearly to do so. Great music from a truly original artist.

Get those wish lists started! Or print this out and leave it conspicuously about.