Description
The 48 tracks on this double CD are rare radio broadcast performances from the Spring and Fall of 1945, made at theatres and military installations in the eastern and mid-western U.S., where DUKE ELLINGTON was not only out to please his audience butalso to raise money for the war effort by selling bonds via these radio broadcasts. The repertoire is mostly Ellington hits from the 40s, plus some from the 30s - all tailored to please the live audience as well as the radio audience. The genre is solid Ellington swing, including some dance tunes, while the many vocals included here (mainly by JOYA SHERILL) gave consolation to the audience during the war years. As is normally the case with Duke, even though one has heard the same tune many times, it is performed completely differently each time so that one never tires of hearing it. Thoroughly re-mastered, this excellent set showcases Ellington in his prime.