Duke Ellington - Reminiscing In Tempo
Format:
Documentary
Distributed By:
Planet Blue Pictures US
Available Now:
About:
Just the fact that Ellington's extended masterpiece "Reminiscing in Tempo" is included here in its original and continuous form is reason enough to pick up this compilation. Initially recorded in 1935, "Reminiscing" was the first thoroughly composed jazz piece and one that not only demonstrated Ellington's knack for longer forms, but also featured practically all of his singular soloists. Upon its first release, the 13-minute piece was broken up over a few 78s, later making its way into EP form. Currently, the Classics label includes it on one of its Chronological discs, but spread over four distinct tracks. So, this 1991 Columbia release might be the only way to get this great work in its seamless form as it was originally recorded.
Collector's concerns aside, this CD was the audio companion to an Ellington documentary aired on PBS. Predictably, it provides something of an overview of Ellington's career, beginning with a recording of "The Mooche" from his Cotton Club days in the late '20s up through a version of "Black Beauty" from 1960. Featured extensively are tracks from the '30s, including classics like "It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" and "Sophisticated Lady." Original gems from the watershed '40s years are here too, including "Mood Indigo" and the somewhat obscure but beautiful "On a Turquoise Cloud" from 1947.
