These 29 transcription recordings, done for radio broadcast during three sessions in 1941, would normally not be of enormous interest -- the Ellington band from this period is pretty well represented, and his most renowned vocalist, Ivey Anderson, only shows up on one cut. On the other hand, the band represented here was, in the eyes of many scholars, the best version of the Ellington band in terms of lineup, and the period from which these transcriptions date is regarded by some (though others will, naturally, disagree for ...
Read More
These 29 transcription recordings, done for radio broadcast during three sessions in 1941, would normally not be of enormous interest -- the Ellington band from this period is pretty well represented, and his most renowned vocalist, Ivey Anderson, only shows up on one cut. On the other hand, the band represented here was, in the eyes of many scholars, the best version of the Ellington band in terms of lineup, and the period from which these transcriptions date is regarded by some (though others will, naturally, disagree for valid reasons) as the most productive of Ellington's entire career. Certainly, as far as popular appeal, the band was nearing a peak, with classics the caliber of "Take the 'A' Train" and "Perdido" entering their repertory almost weekly. These transcriptions, done for the Standard Transcription Company and never before assembled in one place, include the earliest extant version of "Take the 'A' Train" and a rippling version of "Frankie & Johnnie" (a huge hit for the band) as highlights, but even genuine obscurities, such as the rollicking "Madame Will Drop Her Shawl," are worth hearing for the solos by Ben Webster and Barney Bigard; additionally, these tracks also give one a last listen to bassist Jimmy Blanton before illness took him from music and the world. The only real drawback, given the personnel who were present during this period, is that Ivey Anderson is only heard on a single song, "Love Like This Can't Last," but overlooking such unfortunate accidents of history, this mid-priced two-CD set is a chance to savor more of the Ellington band's best period. The fidelity is very good, especially given the age of the recordings and the fact that they were never intended to be preserved, and the notes are nicely detailed. ~ Bruce Eder, Rovi
Read Less
Add this copy of Duke Ellington and His Famous Orchestra 1941: the to cart. $10.58, very good condition, Sold by HPB-Emerald rated 4.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Dallas, TX, UNITED STATES, published 1999 by Soundies.
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Add this copy of Duke Ellington and His Famous Orchestra 1941: the to cart. $11.05, very good condition, Sold by SellingTales rated 5.0 out of 5 stars, ships from Belvidere, NJ, UNITED STATES, published 1999 by Soundies.
