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
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
's salute to
Miles Davis
' recordings with
,
Charlie Parker
, and
Wayne Shorter
.
Pelt
joins
for a lively workout in
"Center,"
which is built upon a solid, catchy rhythm.
Binney
is added for
's spry
"Elvin's Sight,"
a boisterous, midtempo cooker with an infectious Latin undercurrent. Both saxophonists shine with their contrasting solos, with
being more reserved than the adventurous
, while the composer's turn in the spotlight is solid hard bop. The blend of the two saxophonists creates a lush mood in
's quiet ballad
"Unified."
The various combinations of bassists and drummers provide a solid foundation for the soloists throughout the sessions. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden