In JazzNotJazz, we create a unique mixtape from 100 years of Jazz recordings, combined with relevant, or sometimes not-so-relevant facts. The focus of this program is The Soul of Jazz, so we will most definitely deviate to associated genres. We also have some infrequently recurring segments such as “De Niet Platgespeelde Standard” (The Unplayed Standard), “Ellington Train Songs,” “Jazz Cameos,” and “More is Better.”
Presented by: Niels Nordholt
Recently, the Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra released a new mini-album titled “Essentially Ellington 2024,” showcasing eight compositions by Duke Ellington or compositions related to his work. The release coincided with an annual competition for Junior Big Bands. However, to our surprise, it turned out to be primarily Ellington’s lesser-known compositions. Rent Party Blues or Exposition Swing are not the most obvious choices and they are certainly not ones I would personally reach for on a daily basis, that is, until now :-). This further demonstrates Duke Ellington’s exceptional compositional talent, which is also showcased by his band’s performances of these compositions. We’ve selected six tracks from the album and paired them with the original recordings. Additionally, we’ve included two other noteworthy examples. Enjoy the timeless brilliance of Duke Ellington!
Track 01: Duke Ellington, Boo-Dah
Track 02: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Boo-Dah
Track 03: Duke Ellington, Exposition Swing
Track 04: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Exposition Swing
Track 05: Duke Ellington, The Giddybug Gallop
Track 06: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, The Giddybug Gallop
Track 07: Duke Ellington, Golden Cress
Track 08: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Golden Cress
Track 09: Duke Ellington, Miss Lucy
Track 10: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Miss Lucy
Track 11: The Jungle Band, Rent Party Blues
Track 12: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Rent Party Blues
Track 13: Duke Ellington Orchestra, Silk Lace
Track 14: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Silk Lace
Track 15: Duke Ellington, Braggin’ In Brass
Track 16: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Braggin’ In Brass
Track 17: Duke Ellington, West Indian Dance
Track 18: Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, West Indian Dance
