As we celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr. Day yesterday, I thought I would feature the inspiring spiritual gem "Lord, Help Me To Be" from John Coltrane and Alice Coltrane's joint album release Cosmic Music. This record, which was released a year after the legendary saxophone genius passed, was written in tribute to the great Civil Rights leader. The record features two compositions by John Coltrane and two by his wife Alice. It's worth noting that the two recordings that Alice contributed to this record as a leader actually came in 1968, after John had passed. The recordings "Manifestation" and "Reverend King" found on this record represent two of John Coltrane's last recordings from 1966. Alice is featured playing piano on all the tracks, as well is Pharaoh Sanders (saxophone, flute, vocals) and Jimmy Garrison (bass) among others. Overall the recordings on this album are very free in structure, while maintaining a spiritual undertone. A complex sound that seemed to be present in most of John and Alice Coltrane's music (especially during sixties). A fitting tribute to one of the world's greatest leaders.
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