It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)
In a Sentimental Mood
Solitude - Duke Ellington, DeLange, Eddie
Caravan
I Let a Song Go out of My Heart
Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me
Don't Get Around Much Anymore
Sophisticated Lady
I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good)
Perdido - Duke Ellington, Drake, Ervin
In a Mellow Tone
Mood Indigo - Duke Ellington, Bigard, Barney
Prelude to a Kiss
Satin Doll
I'm Beginning to See the Light
Take the 'A' Train - Duke Ellington, Strayhorn, Billy
The Ellington Centenary in 1999 brought renewed attention to a unique musical legacy, producing a host of definitive reissues and tribute recordings. However, this modest, single-CD compilation remains an excellent introdu... more »ction to Duke Ellngton's work as composer and bandleader, two indistinguishable roles. It includes many of the original recordings of his most familiar songs, reaching back to the 1930s for the swinging "It Don't Mean a Thing" and the exotic "Caravan" and forward to the 1950s for "Satin Doll." The first 10 tracks appear here in their original monaural sound, and they're an authentic account of the early years of Ellington's marvelous band--with the rich, smooth saxophone textures of Johnny Hodges and Harry Carney, the soaring muted trumpets of Cootie Williams and Rex Stewart, and the unadorned musicality of Ivie Anderson's voice. If you want a CD with just the most famous tunes, or if you want to introduce someone to Ellington's music in all its regal brilliance, this is a good place to start. --Stuart Broomer« less
The Ellington Centenary in 1999 brought renewed attention to a unique musical legacy, producing a host of definitive reissues and tribute recordings. However, this modest, single-CD compilation remains an excellent introduction to Duke Ellngton's work as composer and bandleader, two indistinguishable roles. It includes many of the original recordings of his most familiar songs, reaching back to the 1930s for the swinging "It Don't Mean a Thing" and the exotic "Caravan" and forward to the 1950s for "Satin Doll." The first 10 tracks appear here in their original monaural sound, and they're an authentic account of the early years of Ellington's marvelous band--with the rich, smooth saxophone textures of Johnny Hodges and Harry Carney, the soaring muted trumpets of Cootie Williams and Rex Stewart, and the unadorned musicality of Ivie Anderson's voice. If you want a CD with just the most famous tunes, or if you want to introduce someone to Ellington's music in all its regal brilliance, this is a good place to start. --Stuart Broomer
"I ordered this CD together with DUKE ELLINGTON-THE PIANO PRINCE AND HIS ORCHESTRA. I wanted these two items to teach my children about Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington. I was concerned that the children might find the music old fashioned, especially because most of the tracks are mono. To my relief and surprise, the kids love the CD! Now, they want me to order another CD that has "Brown and Beige.""
Fabulous
08/25/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"All I have to say is Duke Ellington is the king of jazz composition. Althought I think this predicular CD is missing some of his best ( my personal fav. is cottontail) It still has those 8 bar blues (such as Take the A train) that are lots of classic fun."
Awesome one CD collection of Duke greats!
07/10/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"All of the best versions of the top Duke cuts I have heard over the years. Get it. This combined with the Columbia small band CDs (Dukes Men - both volumes - 4 CDs) make a great Duke starter set."
Wonderful Collaboration of Two of My Faves
07/10/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Just get it. Don't hesitate. Coltrane does not hold back. Duke keeps pace with his usual cool. They enhance each other."