John Coltrane - Giant Steps in Mono

The Guardian 100

(Rhino/Atlantic)

This is an undisputed jazz classic which every jazz lover should have, and this is the format in which it sounds best – in mono, with no distracting alternative takes. There is a stereo version, but stereo recording was in its infancy in 1959 and it lacks the close immediacy of the mono. This was the first Coltrane album consisting entirely of his own compositions, and all seven pieces became instant classics on their own account, especially the fiendishly difficult title number and the beautiful ballad, Naima. Coltrane died 50 years ago, but he remains a potent force in jazz and a compelling model for succeeding generations of musicians.