Blue Train: The Complete Masters

There are ALOT of reissues of this record, one of Coltranes best for sure. This new Stereo issue is a mixed bag and 3 stars is me feeling generous because the music is too good to warrant one or two of them. First off the second disc is throwaway for me. I have no interest in hearing the rejects and subpar runs. Make it a seperate record at a cheap price or tag it onto a CD release but i paid £46 for this and only need/want £23 of it. My first copy was also far too noisy for what is labelled as a premium pressing and at such a premum price (records are not expensive to produce after all). The second copy looks visibly even worse BUT plays very well. However i am totally unconvinced about the mastering as well.... KPG is a good bet usually but this reissue has problems. The good news is its dynamic and lively and transients are felt. But thats about it for.me because tonally and balance wise things are not great. The EQ is top heavy and bordering on hot. There is little warmth and richness. The mids are good, the bass is lacking and the tops are as close to grating as i can tolerate. I honestly think it sounds like middling digital rather than beautiful warm analogue. I have noted KOG has also mastered a counterpoint 2CD release. Curious. I imagine it could sound quite abit better potentially. And no, its not my setups lol.

This is the Complete Masters CD version, not the vinyl!I will not comment on the quality of the music, as we all know the album is amazing! I will only comment on the sound quality which is indeed amazing! I compared on my Rotel cd player through Yamaha as500 and Tannoy M3 (decent set up) the previous version of the album, the RvG remaster, and the current version, the Complete Masters! HUGE DIFFERENCE! The RvG is too loud and all instruments sound to much in front of you! The CM is well balanced, with a warmer sound, the instruments are clearly located on the "stage"! Highly recommend this version of the album!

Great music. Superb recording, mastering and pressing. Beautifully presented with high quality photos and booklet. This is my favourite album of all time and this version sounds even better than my Japanese King pressing. I don't usually go for out takes and false starts but on this album they are really worth listening to and add variety ( Not that I ever get tired of listening to the final version.)

The music sounds unbelievable, the gatefold is top and the books sessions photos and information make this a absolute bargain.