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That's what makes this album such a joyous surprise. and Ellington is in tremendous form. All too often, these sorts of all-star sessions are usually a disappointment to the fans of all involved, in whatever genre of music they occur. His rumbling, gravelly baritone never sounded so good. In short, this is some of the most important music of the 20th Century, played by some of its greatest performers, and they're all bringing their game. Everyone involved is at the very top of their game, and the recording is truly of audiophile quality. And if you want to experience what a great pianist Ellington was, these spare sextet settings are the perfect place.
And, while the remainder of the Armstrong All-Stars stay firmly in supporting roles, it brings a smile to a jazz fan's face to know that these sessions also reunited Ellington with long-time 1930s band member Barney Bigard. (Any rock fans remember Little Village). The songs are all Ellington classics, lovingly reinvented. If you want to hear why Louis Armstrong was such a highly influential jazz singer, listen to his nuanced vocals on this album. The brilliance of Armstrong's trumpet is also so immediate, you can almost hear the light glinting off the shining brass. Drummer Danny Barcelona was clearly fired up on this date and swings like mad. It doesn't get much better than this.
If you like music, you'll like this. If you're curious about jazz, but have no idea where to start, look no further: this is the place. Two masters, combining gloriously to make timeless, magical music.
. Louis is in top form and the Duke's compositions and arrangements make a perfect product out of this. It must be close. I have hundreds of CDs of all kinds of music (Jazz, blues, rock and roll, pop and classical) and if I had to choose one, this would be it. Sound quality is excellent, too. Don't think it twice and buy it.
simply wonderful - two of my favorite musical artists.period. this proves why their fans have endured.
If you're not into Jazz, you'll still love this CD.
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