Album Notes

This is not your typical jazz trio. What distinguishes this group from others are the original material promoting world unity, the strong vocals of pianist Keith Williams, and the fresh arrangements given to traditional jazz standards. Many of the songs written by bassist, Phil Morrison are about people, places, and issues, in addition to more traditional themes.

Phil Morrison and Keith Williams frequently work as a duo, adding female vocalists, drummer, or other musicians as required by the diverse settings in which they play.

The group performs at upscale hotels internationally and the mellow feel of their music makes everyone feel comfortable. The songs of Cole Porter, Nat Cole, Gershwin, Jobim, Duke and Stevie Wonder are frequently heard in their program. Currently they appear alternately at the Portman Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Shanghai, China and Sea Island Resort Hotels on the coast of Georgia,USA. In a strictly jazz setting, the modal flavor of Van Morrison's "Moondance" or the energetic "Tony Song" written for drummer Tony Williams, showcase the more creative side of the group.

The World Unity Jazz Ensemble was formed by Phil Morrison & Keith Williams as a vehicle to engage in cooperative efforts with musicians and instruments from other countries and cultures.

WUJE's first project was the recording of "China Skies", released in February, 2001. The recording was done in China, Japan, and around the US, using musicians and instruments from those countries.

The size and configuration of WUJE varies, depending on the project or engagement but the commitment to promoting international harmony and unity remains constant.

The World Unity Jazz Ensemble "...Striving to be of service to humanity by promoting international harmony through music."