Trombonist
Steve Turre pays tribute to his former employer, the remarkable multi-reedist
Rahsaan Roland Kirk, on this sincere effort.
Turre and an all-star group perform nine of
Kirk's songs plus the trombonist's "One for Kirk." But although the music is certainly well played, one misses
Rahsaan's miraculous innovations. It was logical getting
James Carter for the date since
Carter, like
Kirk, can play any reed instrument in any style. But surprisingly
Carter is mostly pretty restrained during the project, as if he is going out of his way not to sound like
Rahsaan. His usual high-energy multi-style improvisations are replaced by a more melodic and less colorful approach.
Carter,
Turre, altoist
Vincent Herring and pianist
Mulgrew Miller all have their spots, with flutist
Dave Valentin guesting on a medley of "Serenade to a Cuckoo" and "Bright Moments." But the craziness and wide-ranging approach of
Rahsaan's performances are missing on this rather conventional effort. ~ Scott Yanow