Customer Reviews

Ellington

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This was the first WSQ album I ever heard and it was accessible enough for me to appreciate it at first hearing, yet challenging enough to make me want to listen again. Duke's standards obviously help make this their most accessible album, but the arrangements and solos are as free as ever. My favorite track is "I Let a Song Go Out of my Heart", which is essentially a 5-minute long free jam, with the melody being touched on at the end. The last chord is incredible- a major chord with one note played out of tune, creating this extraordinary, gritty sound. And check out Hamiett Bluiett on "Sophisicated Lady"!

the music of duke ellington was a great choice for the world saxophone quartet. when you think big band you think horns. the quartet manages to fill in all the spaces other instruments would occupy without losing sight and sound of the melodies. duke ellington's music lingers long after listening, songs at any given moment i catch myself humming, particularly come sunday. the version by the world saxophone quartet i listen to again and again. the recording is all ellington, certainly the best interpretation of his music i've heard.

Typically the WSQ begin each track with a recognizable statement of a Duke Ellingon theme, and they're really good. The harmonies are mostly traditional but maybe a little edgy. By the middle of the track they are off on their own trip. You will not hear such sounds elsewhere. Repeated squeaks, pained ululations, unidentifiable low frequency boops, triple-time runs that sound like a waltzing mouse looks. It isn't "easy listening" music. I don't know how often you would want to play this CD. I would suggest longish intervals. And a drink or a Xanax before listening wouldn't hurt either because the normal human must consider his nerves. But it's unique. Both bluesy and insane. It will leave you with a fresh impression of the things that can be done with four simple saxophones.