Williams, Mary Lou
High Note, 2008, CD
Instrument: Piano
Issue: 14.3
Jazz Ruler Type: Swing
Performance: 4
Sound: 3
Score:
O’s Notes: Mary Lou is one of the most unheralded jazz pianists. This CD surfaces her vast talents placing her in the spotlight for a live audience at the Sattler Hotel in Buffalo during the winter of 1976. Williams is supported by the venerable drummer Roy Haynes and Ronnie Boykins on bass. They play nine classic selections. They open fully warmed up with “A Grand Night For Swinging” with Mary Lou blitzing across the keys. It felt so good they played it again to close out the set! They slow down just a touch for “My Funny Valentine” but we like it best hot with Mary Lou swinging on “Caravan” featuring Haynes with a robust solo. This is a nice slice from the life of Williams at her best also including an interview.
Publicist: Jazz Depot