Embraced

Album Description

Experience the electrifying fusion of two jazz titans, Mary Lou Williams and Cecil Taylor, on "Embraced," a live album captured at Carnegie Hall on April 17, 1977. This historic concert brings together the legendary pianist Mary Lou Williams, known for her versatility and profound influence on jazz, and the avant-garde pioneer Cecil Taylor, celebrated for his innovative and experimental approach to the genre.

"Embraced" is a testament to the rich history of jazz, featuring a diverse range of styles from bebop and post-bop to stride and free jazz. The album opens with "The Lord Is Heavy (A Spiritual)," setting a spiritual and introspective tone, and seamlessly transitions through ragtime, blues, and boogie-woogie, showcasing the depth and breadth of Williams' and Taylor's musical prowess. Each track is a masterclass in improvisation and technical skill, with standout performances like "The Blues Never Left Me" and "Back To The Blues" highlighting the artists' deep connection to the blues tradition.

The concert is rounded out by a stellar rhythm section featuring Bob Cranshaw on bass and Mickey Roker on drums, providing a solid foundation for the pianists' daring explorations. "Embraced" is not just a live recording; it's a living document of a pivotal moment in jazz history, where two giants of the genre came together to create something truly extraordinary. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating journey through the evolution of jazz, performed by two of its most influential figures.

1 januari 1978

℗ 1978 Pablo Records, Distributed by Concord.

About Mary Lou Williams

Mary Lou Williams, a pioneering figure in jazz, was an American pianist and composer whose career spanned over five decades, from the late 1920s through the 1970s. Born in 1910, Williams was a child prodigy who grew into one of the most versatile and celebrated jazz musicians of her time. Her work reflected the evolution of American jazz, from its early roots to the bebop era. Williams was not only a virtuoso pianist but also an exceptional composer and arranger, breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry. After her conversion to Catholicism in 1957, she saw her musical talent as a divine gift, infusing her compositions with a spiritual depth that set her apart. Her legacy includes a vast body of work that continues to inspire, showcasing her innovative jazz pieces and sublime sacred music.