This fabulous album from vibist, composer, arranger and Artistic Director of the Mary Lou Williams Resurgence Project, Cecilia Smith, is the fruit of innumerable hours spent poring over the Mary Lou Williams collection at the Institute of Jazz Studies at Rutgers University–Newark, as well as direct access to manuscripts and scores held by Williams' former manager and confidante, Father Peter O'Brien.

Dedicated to the artistry of pianist, composer, and mentor to Thelonious Monk, Bud Powell and other bebop icons, Mary Lou Williams (1910-1981), this first volume presents music either composed by Williams, composed in honour of her, or arranged and recorded by her.

Smith's impressive original ‘Sketch 1 - Truth Be Told for MLW’ adroitly incorporates motifs drawn from Williams’ oeuvre including ‘Nicole’, ‘Waltz Boogie’, ‘Scratchin’ in the Gravel’, and ‘Walkin’ and Swingin’. Originals by Williams include ‘What's Your Story Morning Glory’, featuring the gorgeous vocals of Carla Cook, and a piece dedicated to the NYC-born philanthropist, art collector, horticulturalist, socialite and jazz fan, Doris Duke, ‘Miss D D’, which is underpinned by Davis’ pulsating ostinato. There's some especially beautiful playing from Smith on the wonderful Johnny Green standard, ‘Body and Soul’, and in the memorable melodicism of her own ‘Sketch 3 - 100 Years of MLW’. An extended rumination on Dr. Billy Taylor's renowned blues ‘It's a Grand Night for Swinging’ is yet another standout.