John Coltrane (soprano sax), McCoy Tyner (piano), Steve Davis (bass) and Elvin Jones (drums). From the album My Favorite Things (1961).
The piano is the instrument that provides the structure to the group. It is the most complete, since you can play both the notes separately and the chords, or even both at the same time. It supports the soloists and directs the double bass and the drums. McCoy Tyner, the pianist of Coltrane's quartet, was the first to incorporate the modal jazz into the piano. He is one of the most important pianists of modern jazz. He did not just play with Coltrane, he made his own recordings as well. After leaving Coltrane, he worked as an accompanist for other musicians, but in the 1970s his value was recognized and he has always played with his own groups ever since.
A melancholic melody comes from Coltrane's soprano saxophone. It is like an examination of conscience, a look deep inside. But Tyner seems to lift the spirits encouraging the listener. Everything is more positive than it seems, and finally the two end up sharing their points of view.
© Atlantic Records