Search - Duke Ellington :: In a Mellotone

Music Not To Be Missed

Shazbat | Trumbull, CT United States | 02/07/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"A tremendous example of the Ellington/Strayhorn collaboration and the driving artistry of an orchestra filled with star performers. Each song sets its own unique mood and tempo: some restrained yet hard-driving ensemble work, crystaline solos, beautiful ballads, magnificent music. EVERY jazz devotee should own a copy of this CD. Even if you are not a jazz fan but simply curious about the musical form, this is the only CD you need ever buy. The music contained on this disc defines jazz and probably represents Ellington at or near his peak. The only drawback is that, during remastering to the CD format, the boys at RCA cut back on the strength of the bass from the original vinyl recording. As a result, the gutsy/soulful/rhythmic "feel" of some tunes is not faithfully reproduced. Don't let this discourage you: this music is SO melodically rich you'll lose yourself in it! If you are lucky enough to find a copy of the vinyl LP recording BUY IT and blast yourself out of your chair!"