Tenor saxist Jerry Bergonzi shows his debt to John Coltrane in a number of ways on this latest session with Phil Grenadier/tp, Carl Winther/p, Johnny Aman/b and Anders Mogensen/dr. Bergonzi has always had a tone, drive and composing skill similar to late period ‘Trane, but on this recent album, he even follows a similar spiritual trail, with each song title reflecting respect to many of the world’s religions and philosophies. There are no lyrics to get specific about, except for the song titles that reflect the world view of the ecumenical leader.
Thus, his big tone is urgent with Grenadier on the post bop “Intention” and sublime during “Magnestism.” Aman and Winther are soulful on their part for “Harmony” and they chime under Grenadier during “Creation.” Bergoni’s preaches like a fiery Baptist minister on ”Devotion” and Grenadier squeezes out notes like he’s speaking out prophesies, with the team closing things down in a serious and reverential “Sun Worship Ritual.” You don’t have to have the concert at Stonehenge to appreciate the atmosphere.