Lifelike [CD]

Dividing his time between Brooklyn and London, veteran drummer Jeff Williams is in the midst of an exceptional run of albums on the Whirlwind Recordings. ‘Lifelike’ features alto saxophonist John O’Gallagher, a fiery presence on Williams’ first two Whirlwind releases, tenor saxophonist Josh Arcoleo, pianist Kit Downes and bassist Sam Lasserson and guest trumpeter Goncalo Marquez.

’Outlier’, in 2016, showcased his working UK quintet in a set hailed by All About Jazz for its “imaginative compositions and excellent musicianship.” ‘Lifelike’, the follow-up, finds Williams and the group live on the bandstand, with the group playing with characteristic beauty and grit. Together, O’Gallagher and Arcoleo bring Williams’ music into tight focus while fostering a loose and supple interplay. Marquez joins on “Under the Radar”, “Dream Visitor” and his own original “Cancao do Amolador”, thickening the texture and harmony.

Downes is a formidable soloist throughout, but the colour and dynamic sensitivity of his comping proves just as extraordinary. Williams, for his part, is a tremendous presence on the kit, tailoring the dynamics of the pieces, swinging hard and responsively, harnessing the energy and uncompromising musical intelligence of his colleagues. ‘Lifelike’ may capture just one night (June 13, 2017) in one club, but it’s a vibrant summation of the band’s achievement across many live performances in support of Outlier.

Williams has an incredible pedigree as a sought-after sideman and collaborator, which includes his membership in Lookout Farm with Dave Liebman and Richie Beirach to his vital work with Stan Getz, Lee Konitz, Ted Curson, Cecil McBee, Jerry Bergonzi, Joe Lovano and a host of others.