Cattin' With Coltrane And Quinichette (Instrumental)

Chronique

This mid-'90s DCC Jazz edition of the John Coltrane (tenor sax)/Paul Quinichette (tenor sax) title Cattin' with Coltrane and Quinichette (1958) contains the same excellent remastering and bonus tracks as its standard silver pressing -- without the superfluous expense of a 24-karat gold disc. Audiophile pressing or naught, what remains as the centerpiece are the selections that the co-leads cut during a mid-May 1957 session with Mal Waldron (piano), plus a rhythm section consisting of Julian Euell (bass) and Ed Thigpen (drums). Waldron -- who penned all the album's originals -- proves why he is one of the best composer/arrangers for Coltrane. His stylish tickling of the 88s sets the pace with a stealthy and sinister platform for Coltrane's bluesy blowing, followed by Quinichette's exceedingly soulful solo. "Sunday" exemplifies why Quinichette was considered as a sonic successor to Lester Young. Both of the primary constituents put forth much of their respective selves, with Quinichette's reserved and thoughtful input balancing Coltrane's inspired torrent of notes. Somewhat darker in tone, "Anatomy" is a springboard for indulging the development of singular and personable statements from Coltrane and company. Another key component to Cattin' is the unification of Quinichette and Coltrane on "Vodka." The pair is joined by Waldron for a few energetic and lyrical submissions before converging for a sublime conclusion that will make enthusiasts pine for more. In terms of the extras, "Green Is Blue," "You Belong to Me," and "Birdland Jump" are all credited to the Paul Quinichette Quintet and do not feature Coltrane.

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