Expression

AMG Review of Expression

Ron Wynn
All Music Guide

This music came from John Coltrane's final recording sessions, although no one at that time knew it. It was emblematic of his work in that era -- unpredictable, experimental, restless, sometimes remarkable, sometimes more noteworthy for what was being attempted than presented. GRP's reissued CD includes a great bonus cut, the nearly 12-minute "Number One" with a surging, raw Coltrane tenor contrasted by Pharoah Sanders' piccolo and flute. But while the newer material is valuable, the compelling cut here remains "To Be," the 16-minute-plus Coltrane/Sanders dialogue on flutes and piccolo. It is the only time on record that Coltrane plays flute (at least for any lengthy period), and his singing lines, blend of raspy and lyrical phrases, and overall approach are as identifiable on that instrument as on any of his saxes.