CD REVIEW: STATE OF ART by Ben Williams

            Young bassist Ben Williams, while schooled in the music of his predecessors makes a hip statement here about the state of jazz music today on his Concord Jazz debut, State of Art. In the liner notes he states his respect and love for the music of the past but also sees this album as his “honest and humble attempt at expressing (musically) what it means to be alive in 2011.” In interpreting the music of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and Goapele as well as his own compositions, he believes that “The great American Songbook is an open book to which we should continue to add pages.” And yes, this has always been a huge part of the jazz tradition itself: reflecting a modern spin on the state of the world in the present.

            A solid and spirited bassist, Williams has surrounded himself with a young crew of his peers who obviously embrace the same sense of NOW in their approach to Williams’ vision. Saxophonists Jaleel Shaw (Mingus Big Band, Roy Haynes Quintet) and Marcus Strickland (Haynes, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Tom Harrell, Dave Douglas) as well as pianist Gerald Clayton are all accomplished leaders in their own right.

            The uplifting vibe of the music throughout is refreshing, especially on Williams’ own compositions including “Mr. Dynamite”, a modern take on a groove-based, mid-60s soul/jazz trip featuring a fun bowed bass solo. Even the more laid-back tunes on the disc have a palpable positive strength to them. 

            The leader’s short original intro to Michael Jackson’s “Little Susie” is a wonderful minute and a half bass solo highlighting his warm tone and fluid touch. Shaw’s soprano sax is featured on this decidedly jazzy take on this Williams’ hip arrangement of this pop chart. This tune features a stroing quartet which is also wonderfully incorporated on the Goapele cover, “Things Don’t Exist”.

            The most noticeable diversion from form here is the tune, “The Lee Morgan Story” which features emcee John Robinson rapping his own composition about the legendary trumpeter. Guest star Christian Scott fills the Lee Morgan role with his winding trumpet lines. Other than this track, the CD is an all-instrumental affair.

             There are a couple of older pieces here illuminating Williams feel for what came before. Woody Shaw’s great tune “Moontrane” comes early in the program to keep your ears attuned to the fact that this release is versed in the masters as well as embracing today’s world. Ending the CD is a more straight-ahead arrangement of the standard “Moonlight In Vermont” . Guitarist Matthew Stevens and Clayton play wonderfully off of each other her. Stevens also really shines on the solo laden burner, “November” 

            Also of note are the tasty contributions of drummer Jamire Williams, percussionist Etienne Charles throughout. Expect great things from Ben Williams and his bandmates for years to come. State of Art is a sterling introduction.
             DC native, Williams was winner of the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition in 2009. This led to his signing by Concord Records. He has worked with Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, Mulgrew Miller and Roy Hargrove among others. If State of Art is any indication, you will be hearing much from this ambitious and talented young musician.

- A short interview with Ben Williams

- Hear all of the music from State of Art on YouTube. Here’s track 1: “Home”