Mary Lou Williams (Self-Titled Album)

“Don’t think I’ve rec’d anything on here that brings me more joy to share than this album. Truly one of my favorite recordings, brilliantly performed and produced by the artist Duke Ellington called “beyond category,” the great Mary Lou Williams. Every cut on this record explores a familiar dimension of the jazz / spiritual idiom in a completely new way. Her sly counterpoint over the groovy, quiet bass line on “Miss D.D.” is somehow taking the magic of Kinda Blue and making it…even cooler (don’t kill me)?? There’s also a profound devotional presence throughout this album, with gorgeous choral arrangements and some super traditional gospel-ing on the final track. Among all of this beauty and brilliance she also has this tongue and cheekiness that’s somewhat inexplicable, but present throughout. Basically everything I personally like about music in one album idk, can’t really say enough. Enjoy!”