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