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Duke Ellington : Ken Burns Jazz |
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Genre: Jazz |
Dates: 1927-1960 |
Ellington was the greatest and most prolific American composer of the 20th century, so it's impossible to adequately represent him in a three-CD box, much less a single disc. But this collection spans 33 years and four labels and features most of his "greatest hits" (the two strengths of this disturbingly named series), so it's a great starter. In the midst of the flowering of the Harlem Renaissance, Ellington fused European traditions to the new music with wondrous results (reminiscent of transplanted Africans using the Christianity that was forced on them as a source of sustenance and a tool of resistance), though most of his lengthier, more complex compositions didn't make the cut. That makes room, however, for 21 Ducal diamonds. Be vigilant for the hot buttered rum of Johnny Hodges's alto saxophone!
Playlist:
1.
2. Black And Tan Fantasy
3. Take It Easy
4. Mooche, The
5. Rockin' In Rhythm
6. Mood Indigo
7. Creole Rhapsody
8. It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)
9. Creole Love Call
10. Sophisticated Lady
11. Solitude
12. Caravan
13. Back Room Romp
14. Ko-Ko
15. Never No Lament (aka Don't Get Around Much Any More)
16. Cotton Tail
17. Take The "A" Train
18. Satin Doll
19. Jeep's Blues - (live)
20. Come Sunday (from "Black, Brown And Beige")
21. Black Beauty