Customer Reviews

Centenary Celebration 1999 1

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This is the best sounding early Ellington CD I've ever heard. It was remastered by the amazing Robert Parker, who was able to give it a natural STEREO sound! Unlike other's who have tried it, Parker was able to do it without the "echo effect." This is a stunning CD!

This disc is a great representation of the Jazz Age, that period where jazz was moving away from straight Dixieland into something new. Ellington treated his band like an orchestra, giving them well-conceived arrangements. Yes, there is a great deal of stellar improvisation on this disc, but Ellington's arrangements steal the show.

My favorite Ellington track, "The Mooche," is included here. The haunting melody in the reeds is accompanied by wild muted trumpet effects and a thumping rhythm section. The harmonic progression is somewhat "out there" for the 1920's, but Duke makes it work without being overly jarring to the ear. This is quintessential Cotton Club music.

It's a real treat to hear some of the lesser known "hot jazz'" pieces like "Hot and Bothered." The solos are burning with intensity. You probably won't find this on other "best of" albums.

This is my favorite type of Ellington, when he had everyone in the world saying, "What the heck is that?!?" His later work is amazing, but a little tame compared to this. I love the early, experimental period in his career.

The sound quality of the disc is remarkable, no pops or hisses, and it even has a full bass sound. This would be a wonderful addition to any jazz lover's CD collection.