Mary Lou Williams
'
Zodiac Suite
, a 12-piece work with a different theme made for each of the signs of the zodiac (and keeping in mind the personalities of a few
jazz
musicians born during each period), was composed and first recorded in 1945. With the assistance of bassist
Al Lucas
and drummer
Jack "The Bear" Parker
, pianist
Williams
performs these moody and often introspective (but occasionally playful) sketches in a forward-looking
swing
style. Six alternate takes have been added to the original program on this CD reissue which, although not quite essential, has its interesting moments. ~ Scott Yanow