Giant Steps
John Coltrane · 1960
75 min · 15 tracks · post-bop · free jazz · hard bop
A groundbreaking fusion of complex harmonies and improvisational mastery reshaping the landscape of jazz.
Why this album works
- Best for
- dynamic exploration of musical themes wave-like pacing that captivates immersive improvisational listening experience
- Context
- Released on February 1, 1960, 'Giant Steps' marked John Coltrane's third studio album as a bandleader and was pivotal in his artistic evolution following 'My Favorite Things.' This album exemplified Coltrane's innovative approach to harmony, showcasing his transition from traditional jazz forms toward more avant-garde expressions.
- If you like
- post-bop, free jazz, hard bop
Giant Steps is an album by John Coltrane, released in 1960. A groundbreaking fusion of complex harmonies and improvisational mastery reshaping the landscape of jazz. The album is celebrated for its intricate chord progressions and has influenced countless musicians across genres. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Jazz chart and is often regarded as a landmark recording in jazz history, being included in numerous greatest albums lists. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Giant Steps sound like?
A groundbreaking fusion of complex harmonies and improvisational mastery reshaping the landscape of jazz. Rooted in post-bop and free jazz.
What makes Giant Steps by John Coltrane notable?
The album is celebrated for its intricate chord progressions and has influenced countless musicians across genres. It reached number 1 on the Billboard Jazz chart and is often regarded as a landmark recording in jazz history, being included in numerous greatest albums lists. Released on February 1, 1960, 'Giant Steps' marked John Coltrane's third studio album as a bandleader and was pivotal in his artistic evolution following 'My Favorite Things.' This album exemplified Coltrane's innovative approach to harmony, showcasing his transition from traditional jazz forms toward more avant-garde expressions.
Who is Giant Steps for?
Giant Steps works well if you're into dynamic exploration of musical themes, wave-like pacing that captivates and immersive improvisational listening experience.
How many songs are on Giant Steps?
Giant Steps has 15 tracks, running approximately 75 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Giant Steps Standout 4:49
- 2 Cousin Mary 5:52
- 3 Countdown Standout 2:27
- 4 Spiral 6:05
- 5 Syeeda's Song Flute 7:07
- 6 Naima Standout 4:27
- 7 Mr. P.C. 7:05
- 8 Giant Steps (alternate version 1) 3:46
- 9 Naima (alternate version 1) 4:34
- 10 Cousin Mary (alternate take) 5:52
- 11 Countdown (alternate take) 4:39
- 12 Syeeda's Song Flute (alternate take) 7:13
- 13 Giant Steps (alternate version 2) 3:33
- 14 Naima (alternate version 2) 3:29
- 15 Giant Steps (alternate take) 4:51
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