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Giant Steps 1960
Album · by John Coltrane ↗ View artist

Giant Steps

The album Giant Steps, released in February 1960 by John Coltrane through Atlantic Records, marks a milestone in jazz history. This work is considered one of the most influential recordings in the genre, and many of its tracks have become essential references for saxophonists. The recording took place in a context where Coltrane was seeking to define his sound as a leader, after signing a new contract with the record label the previous year. In 2004, the album was selected by the Library of Congress to be part of the National Recording Registry, and in 2018 it achieved gold record status by selling 500,000 copies.

Year
1960
Songs
7
Duration
37 min 3 seg
Listen to the album ★

7 song|s

Song list

# Title Available ⏱
01

Giant Steps

4:43
02

Cousin Mary

5:45
03

Countdown

2:21
04

Spiral

5:56
05

Syeeda’s Song Flute

7:00
06

Naima

4:21
07

Mr. P.C.

6:57

About the album

Giant Steps, according to DoReSol

Among the featured tracks are Naima and Syeeda's Song Flute, which bear significant names: the former in honor of Coltrane's wife and the latter of his adopted daughter. Also noteworthy is Mr. P.C., which takes its name from the initials of bassist Paul Chambers, who participated in the recording. The recording process was interesting; the initial sessions did not satisfy Coltrane, leading to the material from those takes not being included in the final album. The main sessions took place on May 4 and 5, 1959, just after Coltrane finished his work on Kind of Blue.

Coltrane's improvisational style on Giant Steps is notable for its use of what is known as "sheets of sound," as well as for his exploration of related chord movements in thirds, which were later identified as "Coltrane changes." The chord progression in Giant Steps is distinctive, creating tonal centers separated by a major third, which has presented a harmonic challenge for many jazz musicians. This album has not only left a mark on music, but several of its tracks have become jazz standards, with Naima and Giant Steps being the most recognized. Coltrane's influence remains alive, and his music resonates with a humanity and energy that continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike.

Discography

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