Now that
Duke Ellington had regained his former commercial success with his performance at the 1956 Newport Jazz Festival, he was free for the remainder of his career to essentially play what he pleased. This live performacne from 1957 ranges from old favorites like "I Got It Bad" and "Sophisticated Lady" to the spectacular
Britt Woodman trombone feature on "Theme Trambene," the whimsical "Pretty and the Wolf," a fresh rendition of "Harlem Air Shaft" featuring trumpeter
Clark Terry and the extended "Harlem Suite." Baritonist
Harry Carney, high-note trumpet wizard
Cat Anderson and altoist
Johnny Hodges all have their great moments on this enjoyable set. ~ Scott Yanow