Stan Killian makes an impressive debut as a leader with
Unified, featuring the tenor saxophonist with pianist
Benito Gonzalez, a rotating cast of bassists (
Corcoran Holt or
Bryan Copeland), and drummers (
Darrell Green or
McClenty Hunter), along with a few guests (trumpeters
Roy Hargrove and
Jeremy Pelt plus alto saxophonist
David Binney). The leader, a big-toned player with a versatile sound, wrote six of the CD's seven songs, all of which stand up to repeated hearings.
"Twin Dark Mirrors" throws a bit of a curve, with
Killian's
Coltrane-like sax and
Hargrove's soft-spoken trumpet trading licks over
Gonzalez's glistening piano in the introduction, then the piece shifts into an upbeat, strolling post-bop mood; it's not surprising to learn that it is
Killian's salute to
Miles Davis' recordings with
Coltrane,
Charlie Parker, and
Wayne Shorter.
Pelt joins
Killian for a lively workout in
"Center," which is built upon a solid, catchy rhythm.
Binney is added for
Gonzalez's spry
"Elvin's Sight," a boisterous, midtempo cooker with an infectious Latin undercurrent. Both saxophonists shine with their contrasting solos, with
Killian being more reserved than the adventurous
Binney, while the composer's turn in the spotlight is solid hard bop. The blend of the two saxophonists creates a lush mood in
Killian's quiet ballad
"Unified." The various combinations of bassists and drummers provide a solid foundation for the soloists throughout the sessions. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden
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