88 a la carte - Willard McDaniel

I'll Remember April

'88' a la carte

With Willie McDaniel
Crown Records
CLP 5024
1957

From the back cover: He (McDaniel) started playing the piano as a youngster and has been busy at it ever since. Living in the Los Angeles area for the last twenty years, Willard has played with a number of local bands, among them Roy Milton's famous group. He's done studio work on films like "Young Man With A Horn," "Panic In The Streets," "The World in His Arms" and "Family Secret." He's also written a number of tunes "Blues on the Delta," Blues for Mimi" and "Three A.M. Boogie," "Moon Tide" and others.

The album here is a wonderful balance of Willard's piano and 88 A LA CARTE presents Willard as you might hear him in a Hollywood night spot for music lovers where he's played for the past six years.

From Billboard - April 13, 1957: One of the better West Coast pianists, Willard McDaniel unfortunately hasn't had too much exposure. It's hoped this $1.98 package will correct that, for his is an excellent style, reminiscent in spots of the late Fats Waller. He's energetic, imaginative and refreshingly smooth on all selections. Tunes are all standards, with "I'll Remember April" a particular standout, for bargain-disk vendors.

Into Each Life Some Rain Must Fall
Lover Man
The Gypsy
I'll Never Smile Again
Sugar Blues
All Or Nothing
Along The Navaho Trail
Under Paris Skies
A Sunday Kind Of Love
You Always Hurt The One You Love
I'll Remember April
I Love You For Sentimental Reasons