Buster Williams: Griot Liberte

Buster Williams is highly regarded and respected for many things, most notably the beauty of his tone and sound, along with the consistent quality of his writing and recordings, and Griot Liberte (HighNote) is no exception. The CD features a quartet that succeeds because of Stefon Harris’ intricate, superbly executed vibes solos, George Colligan’s lush, explosive piano support and the pinpoint interaction between Williams and drummer Lenny White. On such compositions as “Nomads,” “The Wind of an Immortal Soul” and “Joined at the Hip,” the group’s collective playing is warm and exuberant, and the solos are intense, crisp and disciplined. Williams demonstrates his facility with the bow during a beautiful rendition of “Concierto de Aranjuez,” while Williams, better known in recent years for funk, jam band and R&B sessions, demonstrates great touch and rhythmic insight in his backing on “The Wind of an Immortal Soul,” “After the Ninth Wave” and the group’s reworking of Cole Porter’s “Every Time We Say Goodbye.”

Originally Published January 1, 2005