A Waltz for Grace

A Waltz for Grace is the debut album by English saxophonist Steve Williamson, released on the Verve label in 1990.

Reception

The Los Angeles Times stated that "U.S.-session bassist Lonnie Plaxico and drummer Mark Mondesir... provide inventive rhythmic stimulus which Williamson uses for demonstrations of reserve as well as gut-busting enthusiasm."
AllMusic awarded the album with 3 stars and its review by Scott Yanow states: "At 25, Williamson displayed an original tenor sound and, although some of his soloing is in the Greg Osby/Gary Thomas 'M-Base' mode, he was not limited to that abstract style of improvising". The Penguin Guide review says: "What is lastingly impressive about A Waltz for Grace is its tremendous rhythmic variety. 'Groove Thang' leads directly into the fuller-sounding 'Synthesis' from New York, both largely dependent on Williamson's ability to balance a line over a jolting, staccato pulse".

Track listing

All compositions by Steve Williamson except where noted.

"Down " - 3:18
"Awakening" - 4:35
"Visions" - 4:29
"A Waltz for Grace" - 4:15
"Mandy's Mood" - 5:49
"Soon Come" - 4:14
"Straight Ahead" - 4:45
"Mandela" - 4:29
"Groove Thang" - 1:42
"Synthesis" - 4:59
"Hummingbird" - 5:41
"How High the Bird" - 4:22
"Words Within Words" - 5:01

Personnel

Steve Williamson – all saxophones
Mark Mondesir – drums
Lonnie Plaxico – bass
Gary Crosby – bass
Dave Gilmore – guitar
Hawi Gondwe – guitar
Julian Joseph – piano
Abbey Lincoln – vocals on "A Waltz for Grace"