Recorded in 1965, "Ascension" is a sprawling, intense free jazz piece that found Coltrane leading a large ensemble through a challenging, collective improvisation. The original album cover famously featured a painting by the artist's first wife, Naima Coltrane.
- "Ascension" was recorded on June 28, 1965, at the Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey.
- The album features two distinct takes of the title track, both clocking in at over 30 minutes each.
- Upon its release, "Ascension" polarized critics and audiences, with some hailing it as a masterpiece and others condemning its uncompromising intensity.
John Coltrane was a highly influential American jazz saxophonist and composer, known for his innovative improvisations and his pioneering work in modal jazz and free jazz. By 1966, Coltrane had moved fully into the avant-garde, exploring spiritual and polytonal frontiers in his music.
Tracklist
