Channeling the Past, Shaping the Present: Ravi Coltrane Trio Live at the Blue Note

The Blue Note was packed and buzzing with anticipation late Sunday evening in New York City, as listeners gathered for the closing set of what had already been a compelling five-night run. On Sunday night (March 9, 2025), the Ravi Coltrane Trio wrapped up its residency with a final set that reflected the open, exploratory spirit of modern jazz. The performance, the closing show of the run—carried the kind of looseness and spontaneity often found in late-night sets, when both musicians and audience are more willing to follow the music wherever it leads. It was a set defined by attentive interplay, creative risk-taking, and moments of real connection.

Ravi Coltrane, a brilliant saxophonist, formidable band leader and a rather engaging performer, was in exceptional form. He demonstrated an emotional range and technical facility that reflected both reverence for the jazz tradition and a restless desire to push its boundaries. He was joined by two younger yet remarkably seasoned collaborators: pianist and keyboardist Gadi Lehavi and drummer Ele Salif Howell. Both musicians have been working with Coltrane for several years, and their rapport is evident. Lehavi's playing was agile and imaginative switching seamlessly between acoustic piano and electric keys. He contributed rich and varied harmonies that gave the trio's sound more depth and color. Howell's drumming kept the group grounded with a steady, flexible rhythm that moved easily with the music, shifting from explosive energy to quiet sensitivity as needed. Notably, the trio performed without a bassist—a choice that might seem unconventional, yet one that was never felt, as the music remained full and balanced throughout.

The set opened with a fiery rendition of Ornette Coleman's "Happy House"—a nod to one of avant-garde jazz's most influential architects. The performance immediately set a tone of fearless exploration. Each musician took extended solos that showcased not only individual virtuosity but also a collective commitment to deep improvisational dialogue. The trio interpreted Coleman's piece with clarity and urgency, creating a soundscape that was simultaneously loose and cohesive—an exhilarating balance of chaos and control.

A highlight of the set was a beautifully rendered version of John Coltrane's "Wise One," from the Crescent album. It is a spacious, contemplative ballad that unfolds with a sense of spiritual searching and emotional depth. It begins quietly, almost like a solemn meditation, and gradually builds in intensity. Ravi has performed it many times over the years, and it remains a touchstone of his live performances. His phrasing was lyrical but open-ended, giving the piece room to breathe. Lehavi's accompaniment was restrained and tasteful, and Howell dialed back the energy for a more subtle touch. It was a moment of calm and depth in a set that leaned into contrasts.

Another standout moment in the set was a beautifully interpreted version of "Soulris," a composition by harpist Brandee Younger. The piece carries a subtle Alice Coltrane influence, with its calm, meditative atmosphere and gently unfolding sense of motion. Younger has collaborated with Ravi Coltrane over the years, and he appears as a guest on her 2019 album Soul Awakening, where he is featured on the original recording of Soulris.

The set reached its climax with "Los Caballos," a lesser known rhythmically vibrant composition from Alice Coltrane's 1975 album Eternity. The tune's Afro-Latin groove and modal openness provided fertile ground for the trio's final ascent. For this piece, the trio was joined by veteran saxophonist Richard Howell—father of drummer Ele Howell, playing soprano. He is a deeply expressive saxophonist whose playing blends the spiritual intensity of jazz with the grit and groove of funk, blues, and world music. Howell's robust tone and impassioned phrasing sparked a thrilling exchange with Ravi Coltrane. The piece built to a fever pitch, as the musicians drove the momentum forward with rising intensity, carrying the music into ecstatic terrain. It was a joyous, cathartic finale—equal parts homage and celebration.

All told, this set was a strong finish to a remarkable run. Ravi Coltrane continues to chart his own path, drawing from a deep well of influences while keeping the focus on collaboration and discovery. The trio's performance was spirited, thoughtful, and carried a sense of presence that felt both immediate and timeless—exactly what you hope for in a late-night set. Those in attendance were treated to an experience that lingered long after the final notes faded.

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