In Chronology - 1944-1950

by Scott YanowUna Mae Carlisle, who gained a bit of recognition in the 1930s for being a protégée of Fats Waller, was a talented pianist and a personable vocalist. Unfortunately, ill health resulted in her having to take several periods off of the music scene, retiring prematurely in 1954, and passing away in 1956 at the age of 50. All of her recordings as a leader are now available on three Classics CDs, of which this is the final one. These 25 selections were all formerly quite rare. Carlisle is featured with a Fats Waller-type combo on a four-song session, backed by one group that includes both organ and accordion, purely as a singer in units organized by Bob Chester and Don Redman, and on six three-song medleys from 1950 that put more of an emphasis on her piano playing. Despite the diversity, this program holds one's interest throughout and has its share of high points, displaying the musical talents of the nearly forgotten Una Mae Carlisle.