This double CD reissues a Solid State double LP that ranks as one of
Duke Ellington's finest recordings of his final decade. The live performance gives listeners a good idea as to just how
Duke's ensemble sounded in concert, and it serves as both a retrospective and a display of the strengths of
Ellington's mighty band. Among the many highlights are definitive renditions of "Rockin' in Rhythm" and "Take the 'A' Train" (the latter has some wonderful
Cootie Williams trumpet), a few features for altoist
Johnny Hodges, a tenor battle on "In Triplicate," a few guest spots for organist
Wild Bill Davis, and a 16-and-a-half-minute, nine-song medley that really works well. The most memorable chorus of all is an incredible high-note display by
Cat Anderson on "Satin Doll" that is arguably his most miraculous solo ever; each note he hits is virtually impossible to play on the trumpet, and is in tune, too. This gem is essential for all serious jazz collections. ~ Scott Yanow