Coltrane Plays the Blues is a studio album by John Coltrane released in 1962 by Atlantic Records, although the recording sessions took place on October 23, 1960. The album is part of a series of recordings Coltrane made during his Atlantic period, characterized by a deep exploration of blues forms and modal improvisation.
The album includes five original compositions by Coltrane that approach the blues from an innovative harmonic and rhythmic perspective, moving away from traditional 12-bar structures. It features pianist McCoy Tyner, bassist Steve Davis, and drummer Elvin Jones, who formed Coltrane's classic quartet at the time.
Although the album was released two years after its recording, it reflects Coltrane's stylistic transition towards a freer and more spiritual language, culminating in works like A Love Supreme. Critics have valued this work as a bridge between hard bop and avant-garde modal jazz.