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Coltrane & Hartman — "Autumn Serenade"
One of the most beautiful songs ever recorded, timely as those of us in the northern hemisphere splash into Fall. Autumn Serenade was recorded in March, 1963, final track on John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman.
The playing is just gorgeous. Notice Coltrane's melodic choices in the solo, adding harmonic depth to the progression, especially after the three minute mark. His solo resolution, building anticipation for Hartman to complete the lyric.
But as I listen, more and more I am drawn to the mesmerizing drum work of Elvin Jones.
Some thoughts to give this recording context.
This song was recorded in one take, by musicians who had scarcely rehearsed together, barely a month. No overdubs, no DAW edits. What you are hearing is improvisation, quick listening, as each of them adapts and adjusts, playing off one another's musical choices.
I find that so exciting. This idea that moment is captured exploration, never repeated, or repeatable.
1963 was the year Martin Luther King delivered his "I have a dream..." speech during the March on Washington, in August. The Civil Rights movement was nearing high water as an example of political change accomplished through peaceful non-violent protest.
It was not until the next year, 1964, that the men on this recording were fully granted the right to vote and participate in the American political process.
And, finally, our contemporary culture is preoccupied with youth and beauty. We search distractedly for the shiny, the new, the next — ignoring the voice of wisdom and experience. When Coltrane and Hartman recorded together, they and the band were in their late 30's and 40's, relics by today's standards.
What I hear, though, is skill, certainty, and craftsmanship.
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