Coltrane 100: Both Directions at Once
About This Event
Coltrane 100: Both Directions at Once at NJPAC assembles Jeff Tain Watts (drums), Joe Lovano (tenor and other instruments), John Patitucci (bass), Melissa Aldana (tenor), and pianist-composer Nduduzo Makhathini. The lineup’s combined strengths — Watts’s propulsive time, Lovano’s narrative approach, Patitucci’s harmonic and rhythmic grounding, Aldana’s presence in New York venues, and Makhathini’s engagement with African traditions — frames an exploration of Coltrane’s music through collective improvisation and close interplay.
About Both Directions at Once
“Both Directions at Once” revisits the music John Coltrane recorded in 1963 with his Classic Quartet, sessions that disappeared for decades and resurfaced much later. At NJPAC, the material is reexamined by Joe Lovano and Melissa Aldana on tenor saxophones, with Nduduzo Makhathini on piano, John Patitucci on bass, and Jeff “Tain” Watts on drums. For New York listeners, it touches a City long central to Coltrane’s working life and legacy. The set’s value lies in how it treats a recovered chapter as living repertoire, not an archival exhibit.
About the Artists
Joe Lovano
Joe Lovano is a jazz multi-instrumentalist best known for tenor saxophone, with recorded work that also extends to alto clarinet, flute, and drums. A Grammy winner with long-standing recognition in DownBeat critics’ and readers’ polls, he has also been a key voice in the late Paul Motian’s trio alongside Bill Frisell.
Melissa Aldana
Immerse yourself in the evocative world of jazz with Melissa Aldana, a distinguished tenor saxophonist who has become a vital presence in New York City's cultural tapestry. Known for her innovative approach and expressive sound, Melissa captivates audiences at esteemed venues such as Smoke Jazz & Supper Club, NJPAC, and the Blue Note Jazz Club.
Nduduzo Makhathini
Nduduzo Makhathini is a South African jazz pianist and composer, known for his contributions to the contemporary jazz scene and his exploration of African musical traditions.
John Patitucci
John Patitucci is an American jazz double bassist and composer known for his work in various genres, particularly jazz, and has collaborated with numerous prominent musicians.
Jeff Tain Watts
Jeff Tain Watts is an acclaimed American jazz drummer known for his work with prominent artists and his contributions to the jazz genre.