Joe Williams Live

by Scott Yanow Williams meets the Cannonball Adderley Septet on this rather interesting session. The expanded rhythm section (which includes keyboardist George Duke and both acoustic bassist Walter Booker and the electric bass of Carol Kaye) gives funky accompaniment to Williams, while altoist Cannonball and cornetist Nat have some solo space. Actually, the singer easily steals the show on a searing version of "Goin' to Chicago Blues," and his own "Who She Do," and a few unusual songs, including Duke Ellington's "Heritage."