Sound of Redemption: The Frank Morgan Story (2014) Reviews

• Poignant & Remarkable Life Story

  larrys32017-04-21

  A poignant look at the remarkable yet tragic life story of Frank Morgan, who passed away in 2007, and was considered by many to be the greatest alto sax player of his time. This is definitely not a "puff piece" as the documentary reveals both the highs and lows of Morgan's life. His story is told through a tribute concert held in 2012 at San Quentin Prison, where unfortunately Morgan spent a number of years for such crimes as forgery, robbery, and drug offenses. This was all linked with his acquiring a heroin addiction, just like his idol Charlie Parker, and thus the dichotomy of a man with enormous musical talent who kept committing crimes and using drugs. The film goes through Morgan's difficult upbringing with a famous father (Stanley Morgan of the Ink Spots), who pimped out Frank's mother as a prostitute, Frank's incredible talents even as a 14-year-old, his introduction to the realities of racism at the time in Los Angeles, and then, as mentioned the turbulent years of addiction and jail sentences. In the mid 1980's, having served his time, Frank was released and began a most positive relationship with Rosalinda Kolb. He would go on to record 17 albums, make TV appearances, and embark on a number of successful tours. I don't want to reveal what occurred thereafter, as it would be too much of a spoiler, so the viewers can discover for themselves what path this story took. Overall, this documentary, directed by N.C. Heikin, was filled with terrific jazz music, a most compelling story, and I thought it was extremely well presented.