Review of Four for Trane

As far as jazz tribute albums go this one has been a classic since its birth and rightfully so. Archie Shepp doesn't just mimic Coltrane's sound or design but rather adds a blues tilt to them along with some slight improvisation as well. I can just imagine that Archie put his full effort into each and every note as he must have been aware that this release is going to have all ears focused on it since the title refers to the legend himself. Well, he very much did pull it off and the way the group plays together you would have thought they spent years working together on these tracks, which they didn't. Each track is pulled tight and Archie is in control throughout the whole album exploding with rhythm and beauty while the rest of the band sets the pace. There's a jazz author that refers Archie as Coltranes evil twin, and in this release you hear it very much. The last track, Shepp's only composition on the album, is probably my favorite on here. Fast paced tempo and a great free style. Such a great listen and a great tribute overall.