★"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