motion picture DVD - Norman Granz' Jazz in Montreux Presents Mary Lou Williams '78

In 1978, near the end of her career, Mary Lou Williams was featured as a solo pianist at the Montreux Jazz Festival, resulting in one of the most triumphant performances of her life, although the video portion of this concert didn't appear for another 21 years after her death in 1981. The opening medley is literally a history of jazz ranging from spiritual, ragtime, gospel, Kansas City swing, boogie-woogie, and bop, all of which Williams plays with authority. Her inventive takes of "Over the Rainbow" and "Tea for Two" are reminiscent of Art Tatum with their rich harmonic sense and fancy flourishes. Williams also delights the hushed audience with fresh looks at her compositions "Little Joe from Chicago" and "What's Your Story, Morning Glory." The photography, audio, and editing are incredible, with many terrific close-ups and the feeling that the listener is seated right alongside Williams. This DVD should be considered essential for fans of jazz piano.  AllMusicGuide