It was originally released on Coltrane's Sound[2] played inC# minor with a slow swing feel.
Before Coltrane recorded the tune, he performed "Equinox" several timesin live venues, including a session with Miles Davis's rhythm section and the 1960 Monterey Jazz Festival.
"[5] "Equinox" is introduced by McCoy Tyner (piano) and Elvin Jones (drums) with a Latin rhythmic passage; this shifts into the slower tempo of the main theme.
The theme is repeated twice, after which Coltrane proceeds with an improvisation of unusual emotional depth - reminiscent of a preacher exhorting his congregation.
[6] Elvin Jones makes dramatic use of drum rolls and cymbal crashes throughout to maintain the sense of mystery, while McCoy Tyner complements with a light feel.