THE EXAMINER
Long Time Comin’ Album Review
by Douglas Reid
March 27, 2011
Certainly not a newcomer to the music scene, Marty Williams has several instrumental jazz titles in his discography including: The Fool on the Hill, It’s No Illusion, and his first foray into the vocal jazz arena with Long Time Comin’.
Born in Indiana, Marty started playing piano at the tender age of 20. Marty's formal training came well after he received his "calling" -- he tells the story of a snowy night in Milwaukee listening to Ahmad Jamal's album Voices as the turning point for his musical journey. A part of the San Francisco jazz scene for well over 25 years, Williams was a member of the notable group "Cadence," featuring Eric Swinderman (guitar) Ruth Davies (bass) Babatunde Lea (drums) Williams continues to play regularly with Eric Swinderman and Ruth Davies around the San Francisco Bay Area.
This year marked the introduction of Marty Williams as a prolific stylist and vocalist, with the release of Long Time Comin’. His voice is reminiscent of Joe Cocker, exhibiting every ounce of soul and grit. Williams takes these gems in a different direction highlighting a soulful side of these well known classics.
The opener, an Oscar Brown Jr. tune “Brother Where Are You,” highlights the epitome of Williams’ vocal style and abilities on piano. A relaxed and moody feel, Williams convincingly portrays the moving lyrics. Eric Swinderman (guitar) offers a sensitive and introspective solo creating a compelling storyline musically.Paul McCartney’s “Come Together” is quickly becoming a popular track in the jazz genre, and Williams’ arrangement is a grooving rendition in the vein of Mose Allison. The backing ensemble creates and thoroughly locked groove that allows Williams the opportunity to accent his musical style via the ivory keys on this cuts solo section.
A standout track that showcases Williams’ playful style is “Compared to What.” Written by, Eugene McDaniels, this is a wonderful opportunity to hear Williams stretch out as a pianist while the ensemble romps and rolls through this exceptional cut.
Williams has truly put together a collection of unique selections not normally combined together on a jazz album, tied together by a stellar ensemble featuring, Marty Williams (piano, vocals), Eric Swinderman (guitar), Ruth Davies (bass), Jon Evans (bass), Ranzel Merritt (drums) the key anchor to this enjoyable recording is the distinctive vocals of Marty Williams. Appropriately titled Long Time Comin’, it is evident from the first listen, Williams has truly come into his own with this vocal offering.