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When jazz sax god John Coltrane entered a New Jersey studio with boomy-voiced Johnny Hartman in 1963 to record what would become the seminal LP John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman, Coltrane's pianist McCoy Tyner was part of the small crew of personnel. It was one of those everything-in-one-take (mostly) recording sessions that birthed what's now considered definitive versions of songs like "My One And Only Love" and "They Say It's Wonderful,” and made all the more magical by the fact that it's the only recording Coltrane ever released as a leader with a vocalist.
Now, nearly 50 years later, Tyner is set to release an album of contemporary explorations of that legendary recording with his own critically lauded trio, including tenor sax man Eric Alexander and vocalist José James. The Impulse! record doesn't come out until fall, but Tyner and crew will be at the Blue Note recreating the recording in its entirety—oozing with lush love songs--for a set of Valentine's shows Monday through Wednesday.
At this writing, tickets are still available for February 14th's late (10:30PM) show, as well as both shows on February 15 and 16. Tickets start at $25 at the bar and $35 at tables; reservations available here or by calling 212-475-8592.
McCoy Tyner Trio with José James revisit John Coltrane & Johnny Hartman. The Blue Note, 131 W. 3rd St; 212-475-8592.
