"Scottie Plays The Duke" is a captivating journey into the world of jazz, masterfully crafted by the legendary Shirley Scott. Released on January 1, 2000, under the CoolNote label, this album is a soulful blend of soul jazz, hard bop, and acid jazz, showcasing Scott's virtuosic organ playing and her deep connection to the music of Duke Ellington. Spanning just 36 minutes, the album is a concise yet powerful collection of eight tracks, each a testament to Scott's musical prowess and her ability to breathe new life into classic compositions.
From the swinging "Caravan" to the tender "Prelude To A Kiss," Scott navigates a diverse range of moods and tempos, accompanied by a stellar ensemble of musicians. Her rendition of "In A Sentimental Mood" is particularly noteworthy, highlighting her ability to convey deep emotion through her playing. Meanwhile, tracks like "Just Squeeze Me" and "I've Got It Bad" showcase her mastery of the blues, with her organ lines weaving intricate patterns that are as soulful as they are technically impressive.
Throughout the album, Scott's playing is characterized by a rich, warm tone and a rhythmic drive that is both infectious and deeply satisfying. Her interpretations of Ellington's compositions are not mere imitations, but rather, they are reimaginations that honor the originals while also staking out new musical territory. Whether she's playing a up-tempo bop number like "C Jam Blues" or a slow, smoldering ballad like "Just A Sittin' And A Rockin'," Scott's playing is always engaging and full of surprises.
"Scottie Plays The Duke" is a testament to Shirley Scott's enduring legacy as one of the greatest organists in jazz history. It is an album that will appeal to fans of classic jazz as well as those who are discovering the genre for the first time. With its rich, soulful sound and masterful playing, it is sure to become a favorite in any jazz lover's collection.
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