Duke Ellington - Masterpieces By Ellington (Mono) / Analogue Productions

Masterpieces By Ellington' comes from an era that gave the music industry two of its greatest achievements: magnetic tape recording and the 33 1/3 vinyl LP. Originally recorded on an Ampex 200 at

15 inches per second on 3M-111 magnetic tape, the original analogue tapes have now been remastered by Ryan Smith at Sterling Sound's studios. This vinyl version from Analogue Productions has

delighted music fans and critics such as Michael Fremer; the new dynamic range is overwhelming.

But 'Masterpieces By Ellington' is not only outstanding in terms of sound, it is also outstanding musically. Although one of his lesser-known albums, it is one of the finest jazz releases ever made. Thanks

to new technology, Ellington was able to exceed the 3-minute limit imposed by 78 rpm records for the first time. And he took the opportunity to record his most famous songs in the uncut version as he played

them in concert. He is accompanied by his virtuoso orchestra consisting of Billy Strayhorn (piano), Russell Procope, Paul Gonzalves, Johnny Hodges, Jimmy Hamilton (saxophone), Nelson Williams, Andrew Ford,

Harold Baker, Ray Nance, William Anderson (trumpet), Quentin Jackson, Lawrence Brown, Tyree Glenn (trombone), Mercer Ellington (horn), Sonny Greer (drums), Wendell Marshall (bass) and Yvonne Lanauze (vocals).

Title

1. Mood Indigo

2. Sophisticated Lady

3. The Tattooed Bride

4. Solitude