Jazz Blog

I can describe the latest release from Smooth Jazz sensation Pamela Williams for you with just one word… Outstanding!

Unfortunately, it’s not everyday that I get a CD from an artist that I can just pop in and comfortably listen to from beginning to end. There is usually a song or two that I just can’t force myself to get through. Not at all the case with Elixir. Every track is enjoyable and was pretty easy for me to listen to from start to finish.

The nice thing about a CD like this is when the talent is this rich even if Smooth Jazz isn’t your favorite style you still can’t help but appreciate the greatness of the artist.

If you’re a Pamela Williams fan this is a CD your collection flat cannot be without. In fact, this is one of those CDs that you don’t even have to be a fan of Williams, or even Smooth Jazz to know is good. It’s just good music. Period.

While the entire album is really very good the truly standout tracks are Forbidden Fruit [track 1], A Jam For Pam [track 4], and Give Me What You Got [track 10].

My SmoothLee Bonus Pick, and the one that got Sore [...as in "Stuck On REpeat"] is track 10, Rise. Good stuff!

Elixir Release Notes:

Pamela Williams originally released Elixir on Mar 21, 2006 on the Shanachie label.

CD Track List Follows:

1. Forbidden Fruit

2. Elixir

3. Positive Vibe

4. A Jam For Pam

5. A Toast To Eternity

6. In The Cut

7. Say Yes

8. Rejuvination

9. Give Me What You Got

10. Rise

Personnel: Adam Rogers, Robert Cunningham (guitar); David Mann (saxophone, keyboards, drum programming); Pam Williams (tenor saxophone, keyboards, drum programming); Alphonso McDuffie (keyboards).

By: Clyde Lee Dennis