Naima

Have been working on this tune recently. Coltrane was always trying to break the boundaries of form and its limitations, in terms of scales linked to a harmonic progression, the cyclic chorus pattern (i.e. 32 measures, then repeat), and the confines of diatonicism (as much as is possible on a diatonic instrument like the saxophone).

Listening to his solo, one can hear a struggle against form and conformity - wrestling against those concepts; or maybe, a cue ball ricocheting against the sides of a pool table - forming interesting patterns.

But , as well, the melody to this tune is very beautiful.

Musicians: John Coltrane tenor saxophone, Elvin Jones drums, Jimmy Garrison bass and McCoy Tyner piano.