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Released December 31, 1945

This tape of an unusual Mary Lou Williams concert was originally stolen and lost for decades until it was found around 1990. The pianist wrote a lengthy suite that was comprised of 12 movements, one for each sign of the zodiac. For her Town Hall concert she wrote her music out for a chamber orchestra that included a small string section, flute, clarinet, bassoon, several brass (including trumpeter Irving Randolph), bassist Al Hall, drummer I.C. Heard and an operatic vocalist (who is heard on "Pisces"); tenor great Ben Webster is featured on "Cancer." The music is obviously influenced by classical music (along with Gershwin) and has its interesting moments, covering a wide range of emotions. This CD is rounded out by a medley of some of Williams' compositions along with versions of "Lonely Moments," "Roll 'Em" and "Gjon Mili Jam Session" that include such players as clarinetist Edmond Hall, Randolph, trombonist Henderson Chambers and Eddie Barefield on tenor and clarinet. Not everything worked during the concert but the music from this historical event never loses one's interest. ~ Scott Yanow, All Music Guide

TRACKS

1. Aries [Live]
2. Taurus [Live]
3. Gemini [Live]
4. Cancer [Live]
5. Leo [Live]
6. Virgo [Live]
7. Libra [Live]
8. Scorpio [Live]
9. Sagittarius [Live]
10. Capricorn [Live]
11. Aquarius [Live]
12. Pisces [Live]
13. Potpourri, A: What's Your Story, Morning Glory?/Cloudy/Ghost of Love/F
14. Lonely Moments [Live]
15. Roll 'Em [Live]
16. Gjon Mili Jam Session [Live]

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