Even before the 2012 release of State of Art – his first CD as a leader Ben Williams was one of the most sought after bassists in jazz. Ben’s warm, woody tone, flowing groove, melodic phrasing, and storytelling approach has found favor among musicians – among them Wynton Marsalis, Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, Terence Blanchard, and Dee Dee Bridgewater, just to name a few – but also resonated with a larger audience. To other musician’s music, Williams brings his great natural skill and determination to expand the boundaries of jazz while sustaining its grand tradition. With State of Art, “I wanted to make an album that regular nine–to–five people could enjoy,” says Ben Williams, “and to make a deep artistic statement as well. I like music that grooves, and I make sure that my music feels good.”

Marcus Strickland – saxophone

Alex Wintz – guitar

Christian Sands – piano

Ben Williams – bass,

John Davis – drums