Alice Coltrane: Harp of the Divine

Alice Coltrane's spiritual journey, from Dorothy Ashby's harp to Eastern philosophies, births a cosmic jazz language that echoes John Coltrane and Pharoah Sanders.

Tracklist

  1. Journey in Satchidananda — Alice Coltrane
  2. Afro-Harping — Dorothy Ashby
  3. Ogunde — John Coltrane
  4. Passion Dance — McCoy Tyner
  5. Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt — Pharoah Sanders
  6. Turiya & Ramakrishna — Alice Coltrane
  7. Ohnedaruth — Alice Coltrane
  8. Sita Ram — Alice Coltrane

Transcript

Welcome to OffStereo. Good morning — let's get into it.

Journey in Satchidananda — Alice Coltrane

Alice Coltrane's spiritual awakening after John Coltrane’s passing led her to intense prayer and meditation, deeply influencing her sound. She adopted the Sanskrit name Turiyasangitananda, meaning 'the Transcendental Lord’s Highest Song of Bliss,' shaping her vision for albums like 1971’s landmark, "Journey in Satchidananda." This track reflects her aspiration to offer music as a meditation and spiritual awakening.

Afro-Harping — Dorothy Ashby

Before Alice Coltrane, few established the harp as a lead instrument in jazz. But she was taught by Velma Froude at Cass Technical High School, the same teacher who instructed Dorothy Ashby, a pioneer in her own right. Ashby’s 1968 album, "Afro-Harping," showcases her innovative approach, laying groundwork for the instrument's expanded role.

Ogunde — John Coltrane

Alice joined John Coltrane's group as a pianist in 1966, replacing McCoy Tyner, performing with him until his death in 1967. After his passing, Alice dedicated her early solo work to furthering John’s musical and spiritual vision, echoing the profound explorations heard in "Ogunde."

Passion Dance — McCoy Tyner

McCoy Tyner's departure from John Coltrane's band in 1965 made way for Alice's arrival, marking a pivotal shift in the group's sound. Tyner's own work, like the powerful "Passion Dance," demonstrated a distinct, percussive piano style that contrasted with Alice’s evolving, more expansive approach.

Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt — Pharoah Sanders

Alice Coltrane aimed to continue John's cosmic and spiritual ideals, a path also explored by saxophonist Pharoah Sanders, a frequent collaborator with both Coltranes. Sanders’ 1969 track, "Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt," resonates with the universal spirituality that Alice sought to convey through her own music.

Turiya & Ramakrishna — Alice Coltrane

Alice Coltrane's immersion in Eastern philosophies deepened after she became a devotee of Swami Satchidananda. Her music, as heard in "Turiya & Ramakrishna," began to incorporate Indian classical elements and chants, reflecting her profound spiritual journey and desire to speak to humanity's soul.

Ohnedaruth — Alice Coltrane

Alice Coltrane often expressed her music as a 'spiritual expression of what I am — my faith, my knowledge, my being.' Her debut album, 'A Monastic Trio,' featured the track "Ohnedaruth," a Sanskrit name meaning 'compassion,' which John Coltrane had adopted, serving as a direct tribute to his enduring spiritual influence.

Sita Ram — Alice Coltrane

During her ashram years, Alice Coltrane led Vedic ceremonies and performed congregational chanting, developing a unique devotional style. Her 'ecstatic music,' like the adaptation of "Sita Ram," blended traditional Hindu chants with gospel elements and synthesizers, creating a sound that Surya Botofasina described as connecting with the divine.

Thank you for joining us on OffStereo as we journeyed through the divine soundscapes of Alice Coltrane. May her visionary music continue to inspire your own spiritual reflections.

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