Among the busiest and most prolific of modern bassists, Williams has always been something “more” himself, from his early days with Jimmy Heath, Gene Ammons, and Sonny Stitt (all before age 20), to his alliance with such vocalists as Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, and Betty Carter, and his work on projects as diverse as the Jazz Crusaders, Herbie Hancock’s Mwandishi Band, and Sphere with T.S. Monk. Much in demand as a sideman, Williams has also shone as a frequently-recorded leader and composer. The Penguin Guide to Jazz notes his “impeccable harmony” and a “rhythmic sense that is unfailing, feeling, and utterly original,” characteristics well displayed in his recent visits to the Twin Cities (at the Dakota in 2002 and 2003) as well as with the Geri Allen Trio at the Iowa City Jazz Festival last summer.

Bass players often are overlooked or under appreciated even by “jazz fans”—bass solos often seem to be regarded as mere intermissions while the horn or piano takes a break. Buster Williams commands our attention, as much to his supporting lines as to his dynamic and creative solos. But this group does offer “something more” than a great bass player and composer. Always traveling in superb company, Williams will bring to the Dakota three musicians with plenty of star appeal of their own: Patrice Rushen, who joined Williams at the Dakota two years ago, returns on the piano bench, fitting these gigs into a schedule that includes producing, directing, composing, scoring, and recording. In the footsteps of mentor Quincy Jones, Rushen has received critical acclaim for songwriting and scoring for films such as “Men in Black” and “Waiting to Exhale.” She has numerous credits as music director for television, film, and such touring stars as Janet Jackson; recently spent a year as composer in residence for the Detroit Symphony; and is actively involved in bringing music education to inner city youth. Yet she is also one incredible pianist whose classical training has been extended to all points in the musical universe, from rock-fusion and R &B to physical, complex post-bop jazz. Throughout her career, she has performed solo and with such artists as Stanley Turrentine, Herbie Hancock, Joshua Redman, and Dianna Reeves. And to our delight, with Buster Williams, here in Minneapolis. Seeing her is a rare treat.