Collin Sherman’s new single, “Force Beyond Control,” from the album “Ouroborosuite,” turns jazz into a deeply human gaze at the current political moment. Known primarily as an instrumental musician, Sherman here boldly leaps into the world of music with a message, allowing his pieces to speak to the anxiety, anger, and desire for change that so many people feel in our current society.
The song opens with a plaintive, almost brooding arrangement. The instruments are complex, but Sherman allows the song to come through by taking his time and employing emotional phrasing. This allows you to absorb the weight of his message without being crushed. “Force Beyond Control” is a plea and a gentle alertness in the speaking of wordless instruments. Every note sounds filled with the fear of watching the system collapse, yet also suggests renewal, like the ouroboros symbol Sherman employs.
That’s why Sherman is such a vital voice in contemporary jazz, as he knows how to collate art with self-reflection. This demonstrates that instrumental music can possess as much political and emotional gravity as any song with words. “Force Beyond Control” is an intelligent and fully affecting statement, proof that no matter how technically impressive Sherman’s work might be, it also packs an emotional resonance.
Connect with Collin Sherman on Instagram – @collin.sherman.12
