Coltrane: The Story of a Sound

Through clear musical analysis, accessible language and engaging narration, Ben Ratliff, The New York Times jazz critic, captures the sound of Coltrane onto the pages. The first half of the book focuses on the development of Trane’s sound including his lustful ballad playing and his spiritual exploration. The second half delves into the influential as well as the controversial of Trane’s power. From Giant Steps to My Favorite Thing to A Love Supreme, Ratliff points out: “[Coltrane] helped people freak out; he gave them extramusical ideas.” How did he do that? Coltrane: The Story of a Sound will answer that question.