Bringing outside influences into jazz and bringing jazz to other genres has been going on probably since there was a concept of jazz as a genre. Witness hip-hop and electronic producers sampling from jazz records and Robert Glasper playing J Dilla tunes. Witness David Bowie backed by a group of incredible jazz musicians, DJ Logic joining Medeski, Martin, and Wood, Miles Davis … [Read more...]
Leaving Room for Magic: Ben Williams on Inspiration, Balance and the Synergy Behind ‘Coming of Age’
Black rimmed Ray Bans and a 10pm hit set the atmosphere as Ben Williams steps onto the bandstand. He picks up his bass and pauses. After a moment of silent conversation, he raises his head and begins to play. Phrases bubble over the moments between moments, but the presence of pulse is deliberate. Each player embraces a collective exploration that has become a distinctive … [Read more...]
Ben Williams Celebrates His ‘Coming of Age’ in Berlin
Known for his work in the Pat Metheny Unity Band, and the Next Collective, Ben Williams is one of those artists who represent the fresh wind that has been blowing through jazz in recent years. For the promotion of his sophomore album as a leader titled Coming of Age, Williams brought his Sound Effect quintet to Europe for an eleven-day tour. I caught the band playing A-Trane … [Read more...]
Win an Autographed Copy of Ben Williams’ ‘Coming of Age’
We can’t stop singing the praise of Ben Williams’ newest opus Coming of Age over here at Nextbop. We’ve already posted the teaser for the album as well as a few singles notably Williams’ cover of Lianna La Havas’ “Lost & Found featuring Christian Scott on trumpet but also two originals entitled "Black Villain Music" and "Half Steppin" in anticipation of the release. Well the alb … [Read more...]
Ben Williams – “Black Villain Music” & “Half Steppin” (Stream)
We’ve already shared the EPK as well as the first single, a cover of Lianne La Havas' "Lost & Found" featuring Christian Scott, from Ben Williams Coming of Age set to release on Concord Records April 21st. Now two new singles from the album have dropped. Check out “Black Villain Music” and “Half Steppin” below the jump. You can preorder Coming of Age on Amazon (CD & Vinyl). … [Read more...]