"Africa/Brass" released in 1961 is John Coltrane's Impulse! It was the first album released on record and marked a turning point in his recording career. Recorded in Rudy Van Gelder's studio and produced by Creed Taylor, the film expands Coltrane's regular quartet into a large ensemble. He fused his exploratory tenor and soprano saxophones with Cal Massey's dense brass-dominated orchestration.
Arrangements by Eric Dolphy and McCoy Tyner shape the album's unique sound, interweaving tuba, euphonium, and French horn to create a powerful backdrop for Coltrane's improvisation. With significant contributions from trumpeters Booker Little and Freddie Hubbard, bassist Reggie Workman, and drummer Erwin Jones, Africa/Brass redefined the concept of "big band." Impulse! Africa/Brass, one of the most important works of the label's early years, declared Coltrane's appearance in "The House Built by the Trine" with innovative clarity.
Tenor Saxophone John Coltrane
Piano McCoy Tyner
Bass Jimmy Garrison
Drums Elvin Jones