Style:

Swing, usually played at an up tempo.

Form:

A1-A2-B-A2 (32 Bars) [8-8-8-8]

Coda:

The coda is played on the head out and begins 4 bars before the end of the form. It is similar to A2, only with a prolonged harmonic rhythm and a new melody. It can be heard on Coltrane's original recording although it is commonly left out of performances.

Key:

F Major

Harmony/Overview:

At first it may hardly seem noticeable, but this composition is based on Charlie Parker's "Confirmation". Coltrane changes are used extensively throughout the entire tune, constantly shifting tonal centers in Major 3rds. The melody line outlines the harmony very closely and offers great insight into some of the 4 note devices that Coltrane often used to navigate his signature changes.

Recordings:

Not one of Coltrane's most widely known compositions it has been recorded just a few dozen times to date. The first recording comes from the 1960 session for the album Coltrane's Sound, although it was not released until the 1970 compilation album The Coltrane Legacy. Since then it has become a favorite amongst many musicians due to the especially challenging nature of the harmony.

JGC Top Picks:

John Coltrane, Coltrane's Sound, 1960 

Mark Turner, Mark Turner, 1998 

Ravi Coltrane, Mad 6, 2002