Franklin Kiermyer Crescent With Love CD

Pharoah Sanders Quartet: Pharoah Sanders (tenor saxophone); William Henderson (piano); Charles Fambrough (bass); Sherman Ferguson (drums).
Personnel: Pharoah Sanders (tenor saxophone); Bill Henderson (piano); Sherman Ferguson (drums).
Liner Note Author: John F. Szwed.
Recording information: Sear Sound Studio, NY (10/19/1992/10/20/1992).
Photographer: Harrison Hurwitz.
This two CD set from the Evidence label features tenor-saxophonist Pharoah Sanders accompanied by a supportive rhythm section (pianist William Henderson, bassist Charles Fambrough and drummer Sherman Ferguson). Although there are some passionate moments, this is actually one of his mellower sessions and he explores such songs as "Misty," "In a Sentimental Mood," "Too Young to Go Steady," "Body and Soul," "Naima" and "After the Rain" in a ballad style not that different than John Coltrane's of the early '60s. There are some heated moments on some of the other selections (such as "Wise One" and "Crescent") but Sanders's trademark screeches are at a minimum this time around. ~ Scott YanowDown Beat (3/95, p.42) - 4 Stars - Very Good - "...this set demonstrates a sensitivity in Pharoah's interpretations that isn't often displayed, and rebuts anyone who questions his ability to play inside..."
Option (3-4/95, p.132) - "...this is a lovely two-disc set. Sanders eschews his trademark screams and concentrates on the deep, dark sound that made Coltrane's playing so universal....This does not merely revisit the past; it is revitalization, renewal and prayer."
Jazziz (6/95, p.78) - "...Sanders thoroughly bares his...emotional, throaty, and eccentric sound. The eccentricity comes from Sanders' urge to fuse everything from his blues roots with the variety of music he has found most attractive over the years. And his distinction comes from his success in synthesizing his influences into affecting music..."