1952

Here's a treat. Vol. 42 of the chronologically reissued recordings of Duke Ellington opens with some 56 minutes of music recorded live at the Civic Auditorium in Seattle, WA, on March 25, 1952. This document fully conveys the excitement of hearing Duke's orchestra in person, on tour in the great Northwest. Ellington enthusiasts have cherished these recordings for years, and this concert is particularly satisfying. "Skin Deep" is an extroverted exercise for drum kit by Louie Bellson. After this percussive fireworks display the leader provides eloquent spoken introductions, acknowledging the musician chosen as soloist on each selection. Conservatory-trained trombonist Britt Woodman -- a favorite of Charles Mingus -- expresses himself beautifully throughout "Sultry Serenade." "Sophisticated Lady" spotlights "internationally celebrated alto saxophonist" Willie Smith. Clark Terry is the star soloist on a smoky ride through Juan Tizol's "Perdido," after which that valve trombonist elucidates another of his marvelous compositions, "Caravan." Ellington composed his majestic "Harlem Suite" for the NBC Symphony Orchestra. He briefly explains the concept of the piece and reminds his audience that Harlem has "more churches than cabarets." This was in keeping with Duke's lifelong dedication to improving the public's understanding and appreciation of Afro-American culture. Louie Bellson's zippy offering, "The Hawk Talks," has a rowdy piano introduction, whereupon the band generates quite a head of steam. There is a very showy crowd-pleasing medley of Ellington hits and lastly the famous "Jam With Sam," during which Ellington briefly introduces each soloist. This may serve as a listening lexicon of more than half of the wind players in the band at that time, enabling the listener to become better acquainted with the specific sounds of Willie Cook, Russell Procope, and Quentin "Butter" Jackson, as well as the familiar tones of Paul Gonsalves and Cat Anderson. On the cusp of June and July 1952, the Ellington orchestra concentrated its energies on the art of making extended LP recordings. Betty Roche added her scat singing to eight glorious minutes of "Take the 'A' Train" and did up "I Love My Lovin' Lover" in what at times seems a fairly close imitation of Dinah Washington. Jimmy Grissom goes out of his way to sound like Al Hibbler during "Come On Home." This full helping of Ellington jazz closes with an exquisitely expanded rendition of Duke's hit of 1928, "The Mooche," with breathtaking solos by Jimmy Hamilton, Quentin Jackson, Willie Smith, Ray Nance, and the mighty Harry Carney. ~ arwulf arwulf