Search - Robin Kenyatta :: Ghost Stories

Unheard masterpiece

Jan P. Dennis | Monument, CO USA | 10/04/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sometimes great records come from the strangest places. Ulli Blobel's ITM label is (was?) notorious for it's unevenness. This is one of his greats. I don't know a whole lot about Robin Kenyatta. I know he was something of a jazz superstar in the 60's, recorded for Atlantic, and was thought to have a very bright career ahead of him. Somehow, it all disappeared. Now, here he is in the mid-90s on some obscure foreign jazz label. Ah, sic transit gloria mundi.But you know what? It's easy to see what all the hype must have been back in his glory days. Blessed with a ravishing tone on tenor, a unique concept, chops to burn, and a sly sense of humor, Kenyatta's the real deal, and this record magically showcases his talents. Of course, it helps to have one of the absolute master jazz drummers, Ronnie Burrage, backing you. And Reggie Johnson on bass is not slouch either. The ringer here is Morten Gronvad on vibes (and midi-vibes on the title cut, it sounds like), who more than admirably acquits himself in such fast company. This record is so special that the band's take on "My Favorite Things" literally blows Coltrane's famous reading out of the water. At least to these ears. But everything's absolutely top drawer here, from inspired takes on standards ("The Breeze and I," "Lullaby of the Leaves") to stunning originals ("Ghost Stories," "Calypso Girl," "His Love").It's a shame that such a fine record has to languish in veritable obscurity. But that's the way it is with this unique, frustrating, strangely beautiful music known as jazz. Do yourself a favor and pick up on this neglected gem."