Benny Carter - Mary Lou (LP)

Benny Carter's 'Mary Lou' is a sublime collection of jazz and swing classics, released on 1 January 2022 via Crazy Warthog Media. This 45-minute album is a masterclass in cool jazz, showcasing Carter's incredible talent and versatility. With a tracklist that features timeless gems such as 'A Monday Date', 'My Blue Heaven', and the titular 'Mary Lou', this record is a must-listen for fans of big band and swing music.

The album's 16 tracks, including alternate takes of 'All Alone', 'Laugh Clown Laugh', and 'Who's Sorry Now', demonstrate Carter's ability to craft nuanced and expressive performances. From the lilting 'In a Little Spanish Town' to the melancholic 'Someone to Watch Over Me', each song is a testament to Carter's skill as a musician and his deep understanding of the jazz tradition.

With its unique blend of big band grandeur and cool jazz intimacy, 'Mary Lou' is an album that will appeal to both longtime fans of Benny Carter and newcomers to his music. So sit back, relax, and let the smooth sounds of 'Mary Lou' transport you to a bygone era of jazz and swing.