Kenny Garrett—Standard of Language

(Warner Bros. 48404-2)

Kenny Garrett lights the fuse by igniting Cole Porter's "What Is This Thing Called Love" into a raging firestorm. It's another reason why Kenny Garrett is regarded as Jazz's most kinetic alto player. Five of the nine songs here were originally recorded on September 11, 2001, a fact that's nary mentioned/exploited in the liner notes. Standard of Language is a footrace, an aggressive but melodic romp that pounds, thunders, dances, and gyrates. If pressed to present an MVP award, it would surely go to drummer Chris Dave. He "Elvinates" a track like "Kurita Sensei" into "favorite things" status, sounding almost Village Vanguard live and on fire. Eventually Garrett ends this shriekfest with the title track, a suite-like composition that, in the hands of a less-capable rhythm section, would have been catastrophic. But with this band, look out. As it plays out, Standard of Language is a slammin' and furious joy from start to finish.