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Franklin Kiermyer: Closer To The Sun
by Hrayr Attarian
Most of drummer Franklyn Kiermyer's records have a strong spiritual aura but none as intensely so as the deeply introspective Closer to the Sun. For this sublime session Kiermyer draws inspiration from saxophonist John Coltrane's Impulse years. This is not, however, a mere tribute through reinterpretation of the great artist's work as Kiermyer has a unique style that is deferential to but never derivative of those who have influenced him. Kiermyer often utilizes repeating motifs and melodic fragments ...
read moreFranklin Kiermyer: Closer To The Sun
by Mark Corroto
Sooner or later every human being has to come to terms with their inner self. Quite often it is later, on one's deathbed, that one's life is questioned. Those who do live an examined life while young (and healthy) often choose to live a more challenging life. Same for musicians, but their challenge is often the music of John Coltrane. His music is a perfect model because, especially in his later years, it was intertwined with his inner journey.
read moreFranklin Kiermyer: Further
by Dave Wayne
The great dilemma facing a music reviewer is how to discuss an artist's work intelligently within an historical continuum without getting too hung up on musical influences and reference points. Such is the case with drummer / composer Franklin Kiermyer whose music, while totally original, is redolent with the intensity and seeking spirituality of the John Coltrane Quartet. Describing this music as Coltrane-influenced simply doesn't do it justice. What the Canadian drummer and his quartet are doing here is unique, ...
read moreFranklin Kiermyer: Further
by Hrayr Attarian
Expat Canadian drummer Franklin Kiermyer's sublime and passionate Further is a cohesive work that is both transcendent and crackles with a visceral vitality. The album revolves around themes that are inspired by saxophonist John Coltrane's late career explorations but the Oslo-based Kiermyer and his band are not mere impersonating devotees. They imbue every tune with originality and a brilliant and imaginative urgency. The centerpiece of the recording is “Between Joy & Consequence," with its two takes. Pianist Benito ...
read moreFranklin Kiermyer: Further
by John Kelman
The number of jazz musicians whose lives and music have been impacted by John Coltrane is truly legion; few, however, have extrapolated the exploratory space travelled by the late, great saxophonist in his final two years as intensely--and successfully--as Canadian expat, one-time New York resident and now Oslo-dwelling drummer Franklin Kiermyer. While his international profile has, for the past several years, been rather low, barring appearances like in Bergen's Natt Jazz in 2010, where he participated in an incendiary performance ...
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