Immerse yourself in the timeless magic of Duke Ellington's "Live From the 1956 Stratford Festival," a captivating journey through the heart of jazz, big band, swing, and cool jazz. This live album, released on April 1, 2011, by Music and Arts Programs of America, captures the essence of Ellington's genius in a 54-minute spectacle of musical brilliance. From the triumphant fanfare of "Hark, the Duke's Trumpets!" to the sultry allure of "Sophisticated Lady," each track is a testament to Ellington's unparalleled compositional skill and his band's virtuosic performance. The album features a mix of well-known standards like "Take the A Train" and "I Got It Bad," alongside lesser-known gems such as "Clarinet Melodrama" and "Harlem Suite." Ellington's ability to blend intricate arrangements with infectious rhythms is evident throughout, making this album a treasure trove for both longtime fans and newcomers to his music. The live setting adds an extra layer of energy and spontaneity, allowing you to experience the thrill of Ellington's music as it was meant to be heard—live and in concert.
Vinylscout