Interstellar Space

From the first note to the last I found myself mesmerized by Coltrane’s final masterpiece. Incredibly fitting that he would finally develop the idea of taking his music to the stars to fruition. For years in interviews he has discussed music in terms of the divine, a universal connection beyond words; he’s described his affinity for the drums and how they are as key to making his music function as his own saxophone is. It seems only right to me that he would center what lies beyond our world at the exact time when he felt comfortable forgoing his other players. Stripping down to the necessities and letting the music come to life as a result.

I find this record to be blissful, possibly even the entry point for people looking to get into his late style. There’s a clarity to Coltrane’s complexity that isn’t as easy to spot on his other free jazz endeavors. The beginnings of melody that fall away but return every so often and finally bring things to a head. Dynamic patterns that easier to notice across each piece, shifting ideas while still letting the moment pour over him. It’s a spiritual album to its core and an evocative one at that.

Spikes of powerful intensity, particularly from Rashied near the closing of the opening track. His playing is far less crazed than other releases and in fact showcases his true genius as a nimble but meticulous juggler behind the kit. Balancing subtleties in a way that separates himself from Jones. Sharp dissonance, fast playing & an eye for the avant- garde is not the true reason why Ali is so perfect for Coltrane’s vision though they are important.

Moments of beauty peak through these winding compositions that make you catch your breath. The realization that method not only eclipses the madness, but is the central reason that gives Coltrane and Ali the ability to take you into another plane. A flow state of feeling that he’s been chasing for his entire career. Here stands another shining success.