Touch

Williams might say otherwise, but really, she has nothing to prove. Each new CD she has brought out in recent years is a passionate and joyous journey. Especially so is this new CD, where she plays solo and allows the piano to sing exquisite melodies, both hers and those of others. The opener is Gershwin's "I Loves You Porgy," and it receives a nearly rhapsodic treatment, played as lovingly as possible. Williams has composed prolifically over the years, but she comes up with a delicate and silky thing called "Soldaji," with a touch of the East and the mysterious hand in hand. "Rosa Parks" has a charming and pleasing melody line, and one of John Coltrane's rarely heard works, "Wise One," will demand your attention. They are followed by "Gail's Song," another lilting and lovely JW line. Two standards are next, a stunning workout on "I Cover the Waterfront" and a heartfelt "Goodbye Porkpie Hat." This live performance at The Triple Door in Seattle ends with another original, the stately "Simple Things." Throughout, Williams concentrates on beauty, passion and heart, keeping in mind always that the sound of the unfettered piano can be a joy to hear. Especially when it's caressed by Jessica Williams.