MARY LOU WILLIAMS - Black Christ Of The Andes - 1964 French Import LP NM Vinyl
$
44
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Description
Mary Lou Williams - BLACK CHRIST OF THE ANDES is a 1964 French import LP release on the MPS label # MPS 15020.
At the time of its initial performance, "Black Christ of the Andes" (or "St. Martin de Porres") was called everything from "blues stripped of its accent" to a "hokey prayer," prompting Williams to cut it from her repertoire before the release of the LP in 1964. An unfortunate fate for a very enjoyable and, now, highly regarded piece of music. Williams explained her pioneering concept of pairing jazz with spirituals as an attempt to heal the disparity between the gifted nature of the African-American and his tendency toward the worst kinds of sin. In fact, the original title for this LP was Music for Disturbed Souls. Certainly, by 1962 others had employed the modes and feel of the church into jazz, but Williams' use of the Ray Charles Singers (no relation to the other Ray Charles) added an element that made "St. Martin," an a cappella choral piece. Williams' vision was at times dark and sobering while at others full of warmth and hope. It would have been completely out of place, however, at the Village Vanguard. This is a piece that belongs, if not in the church, then certainly out of the nightclub circuit. Other tracks on this LP, though, like her sublime rendition of "It Ain't Necessarily So," would have been welcome in their dark and smoky confines. Otherwise, expect a jump blues number, a handful of trio cuts (some featuring Percy Heath), and a smattering of various vocal combinations throughout. A number of styles are represented here and they weave amongst one another with ease and grace. This is a very enjoyable record with some especially rewarding piano solos by Williams.
The gatefold jacket shows minor wear on the corners. The record is in NM condition. High bidder agrees to pay $4.00 shipping in the U.S.
On Jun-07-08 at 14:48:28 PDT, seller added the following information:
On Nov-22-08 at 22:20:06 PST, seller added the following information:
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