Yesterday, I played through “Alter Ego”, pianist James Williams’ most well-known composition. Save for two bars, every chord in “Alter Ego” is a minor 11 chord. Ambiguous and dark, the minor 11 chord is a common sound, one you’ve heard all your life. “Alter Ego”, which literally means ‘other self’, is the perfect name for a heartfelt piece of music built on a blurred, not-all-there sound.
There's a comment of Philip Larkin's about, I think, Joe Henderson (though not sure the sentiment fits the great Mr H) along the lines of them being a player of no great originality without whom jazz would be immeasurably poorer.
I've not listened to a huge amount of James Williams' recordings but maybe something similar could be said about him? Anyway, this excellent article has prompted me to dig a bit deeper...I'll start by relistening to a fine duo album he cut with the great Bobby Watson (and which features Alter Ego in the set list).
That's what I'm trying to say. Jazz, and music (and, to go all the way, human existence) is helped by anyone making a sincere effort. We need everyone.
Thanks for reading and commenting Hugo, much appreciated.
Thank you for remembering Mr James Williams. Such a beautiful, soulful musician. His playing with the Art Farmer Quintet’s Blame It On My Youth on Contemporary was sublime. Check his solo on Fairy Tale Countryside. James Williams moved me so much.
I love Art Farmer's Blame It On My Youth. I'm going to get it out and put it on right now. Happy New Year Bill and thanks for reminding me of that great record.
Beautiful tribute. I saw a James Williams gig at the Knit with Joey Baron, sometime around 99 or 2000. It was wonderful. Maybe someone else was at that gig, too.
For a few years in the late 90's, James Williams also presided over the Phineas Newborn, Jr. Award of Excellence ceremony, presented annually at Merkin Hall. I was lucky enough to attend the ceremony in 1997 (awardee Jimmy Heath) and 1998 (Billy Higgins). These ceremonies attracted some really heavy cats, and Mr. Williams's presence aroused such palpable warmth from his fellow musicians. Thank you for shining a spotlight on him.
i guess i must be into jazz, lol... i know james williams and i think i first became familiar with him thru the tom harrell sail away recording.. great pianist, but i didn't have the great fortune of being mentored by him... thanks for the story vinnie and kudos to all you do! happy new year 2024!
There's a comment of Philip Larkin's about, I think, Joe Henderson (though not sure the sentiment fits the great Mr H) along the lines of them being a player of no great originality without whom jazz would be immeasurably poorer.
I've not listened to a huge amount of James Williams' recordings but maybe something similar could be said about him? Anyway, this excellent article has prompted me to dig a bit deeper...I'll start by relistening to a fine duo album he cut with the great Bobby Watson (and which features Alter Ego in the set list).
That's what I'm trying to say. Jazz, and music (and, to go all the way, human existence) is helped by anyone making a sincere effort. We need everyone.
Thanks for reading and commenting Hugo, much appreciated.
Thank you for remembering Mr James Williams. Such a beautiful, soulful musician. His playing with the Art Farmer Quintet’s Blame It On My Youth on Contemporary was sublime. Check his solo on Fairy Tale Countryside. James Williams moved me so much.
I love Art Farmer's Blame It On My Youth. I'm going to get it out and put it on right now. Happy New Year Bill and thanks for reminding me of that great record.
You know what? I’m going to play it right now too. Happy new year Vinnie and saludos from Spain.
Beautiful tribute. I saw a James Williams gig at the Knit with Joey Baron, sometime around 99 or 2000. It was wonderful. Maybe someone else was at that gig, too.
Whoah-- what a gig, wish I'd been there. Thank you for reading and commenting David!
For a few years in the late 90's, James Williams also presided over the Phineas Newborn, Jr. Award of Excellence ceremony, presented annually at Merkin Hall. I was lucky enough to attend the ceremony in 1997 (awardee Jimmy Heath) and 1998 (Billy Higgins). These ceremonies attracted some really heavy cats, and Mr. Williams's presence aroused such palpable warmth from his fellow musicians. Thank you for shining a spotlight on him.
Yes! What a great thing to share— JW was so passionate about Phineas Newborn…thanks for sharing this beautiful memory Brian…
i guess i must be into jazz, lol... i know james williams and i think i first became familiar with him thru the tom harrell sail away recording.. great pianist, but i didn't have the great fortune of being mentored by him... thanks for the story vinnie and kudos to all you do! happy new year 2024!
Happy 2024 to you James!
Happy & Healthy New Year, Vinnie. Thanks for the joy you bring and the swing you swing!!
Thanks as always Richard!