Franklin Kiermyer: Sanctification

Kiermyer’s charismatic and somewhat complex rhythmic structures provide fertile terrain for the soloists as in the title track, “Sanctification” where Michael Stuart blows walls down while the drummer proceeds to temper the festivities via his rolling tom work and crashing cymbals on the emotionally charged piece, “Aspiration”. Here and throughout, the band sings to the heavens and conveys a sound and style that closely mirrors Coltrane’s mid-60’s soul searching extravaganzas. Well, not that this would be a revelation for those who are familiar with the drummer’s previous outings yet Kiermyer’s symbiotic approach yields a contemporary outlook as the musicians perform with the utmost conviction! - The band melds conventional free-style dialogue with swing-based rhythms on the explosive piece titled, “Illumination” as they build upon underlying themes and melodies along with the often fiery soloing and an - acute sense of the dynamic.

There’s no messing around or beating around the bush here as the band performs with emotion and an altogether energetic spirit. And while the overall sound and attack more than slightly resembles later day Trane, these folks do conjure up a contemporary twist to a 35-year-old musical creation as they seek higher ground during the process.

* * * ½ (out of * * * * *)

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