I'm right in the midst of my mid-term exams and have many a side-order of homework assignment to cope with, but there is always time to enjoy some good ole music. Actually, I've recently had a run in with the Jazz of the 1950s. I just can't get enough of that soothing sound. I've been consistently listening to Miles Davis' Birth of the Cool and getting into Miles Ahead as well, but just over a week ago I got my hands on some John Coltrane…

Anyway here are the records I recently got:

Blue Train - John Coltrane

I'm listening to this record right now. I must have heard it nearly ten times since I got it. The opening track pretty much makes a promise no one can keep…and keeps it!

This is very early Coltrane, mind you. The album was recorded in 1957; at that point John was just starting to get busy. The record is basically a six piece jazz band blowing to some simple catchy arrangements. Nothing structurally complex here, nothing too modern, but the sound and spirit of it all enchants me every time I listen to it. Coltrane just has this sound that cuts through everything and begs your attention. I think this record is going to end up being one of my most memorable Jazz albums; right up there with Birth of the Cool. Jazz lovers, get these records now, especially if you enjoy trumpet and sax leads. (Holy crap, the trumpet solo on track 3 of Blue Train!)

(Highlights: Blue Train (Title Track), Locomotion, Lazy Bird)

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Electric Mud – Muddy Waters

This record is something of an anomaly. Basically, it's a Muddy Waters record with a psychedelic back up band. What!? Yeah, and Howlin' Wolf made one too; his was called: This is Howlin' Wolf's new album. He doesn't like it. He didn't like his electric guitar at first either. No kidding, the record is actually called that!

So, Muddy Waters, the legendary blues singer with a psychedelic back up band. Is it sinking in yet? Well, the critics hated it, so Howlin' wasn't alone in that. But who cares what critics say? Electric Mud is awesome. In fact, most of the record has a distinct sound that actually feels like electric mud, if that actually existed anyway. The guitars are fuzzed out; they sound smooth and raspy at once; electric and muddy, so sweet. This is a cla$$ic blues record that you all need to hear at least once.

(Highlights: She's Alright, Herbert Harper's Free Press News, Tom Cat)

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I'm still waiting to receive Coltrane's A Love Supreme from Amazon, along with a Microeconomics text book, and Ginsberg's Howl and other poems. Can't wait.

Well, back to work and school for me…enjoy whatever it is you enjoy!

Peace