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Gin Bon
Loren Stillman | Blue Moon

By Russ Musto

Gin Bon reunites gifted young saxophonist

Loren Stillman with the inspired rhythm section
of Russ Lossing, Scott Lee and Jeff Hirshfield
from last year's acclaimed How Sweet It Is ;
and, on half the session, guitarist John
Abercrombie, the altoist's bandmate from the
group Jackalope. Stillman's sumptuous sound
and well-developed technique are matched by
his remarkably mature aptitude for composing
engaging melodies in variety of forms and feelings.

The opening 'Psalm No. 3' is a soulful and seductive song with Stillman's
soft sound clearly linked to the tradition of his hero Lee Konitz, yet also
suggestive of Kenny Garrett (and Kenny G) in its smooth modernity. On
'Son of Snake' he affects a rougher, more jagged tone, occasionally
overblowing as he shifts seamlessly through segments, abstract to
metrical, ably assisted by Lossing and Abercrombie in sections
reminiscent, respectively, of Cecil Taylor and electric Miles. 'The I
Specialist' is a rhythmically relaxed quartet piece influenced by Wayne
Shorter and Herbie Hancock's more ethereal Blue Note work.

The title track is suite-like, exploring a multitude of musical milieus,

showcasing Abercrombie both in sympathetic interplay with Stillman's
alto and on searing solos. The disc's second psalm, 'No. 4,' takes on an
earthy gospel tone that hearkens to the spiritual sound of Curtis
Mayfield's 'People Get Ready.' The session's second serpentine song,
'Skin Snake,' continues in the abstract ambiance of its predecessor,
Stillman's staccato speechlike sax evocative of Henry Threadgill in Air.
'Lamia' is the date's most lyrical piece, a romantic and melancholy
melody that would work well as a '50s foreign film soundtrack. The track
'6/14/80' pairs a mysterious Middle Eastern melody with a throbbing
bass line to create an atmosphere of ominous pursuit. 'Skin' is an
ethereal exploration on which Stillman again displays an indebtedness to
the great Konitz. The final 'Psalm No. 9' may be the date's most
beautiful song, with Abercrombie adding a Christian country flavor.

Track Listing: 1. Psalm No 3 2. Son of Snake 3. The I Specialist 4. Gin

Bon 5. Psalm No 4 6. Skin Snake 7. Lamia 8. 6/14/80 9. Skin 10. Psalm
No 9

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