With this magnificent tribute to Duke Ellington, Claude Bolling has seemingly achieved the impossible; a powerful, blow-by-blow commentary on the very substance of the Ellington achievements. The warmth is present, as is that relaxed, unmistakable swing, and also the solo contributions from the Bolling entourage come so close to the classic creations of the original men. Yes, this is surely a memorable release, never let's up for one instant on the responsibility for recreating, with such exactness, the sounds of the incomparable Duke and his unique company of performers. A distinctly superior act of homage all round... - Ken Rattenbuty.
3 Things Ain't What They Used to Be/Time's a Wastin
4 Creole Love Call
5 Drop Me Off in Harlem
6 It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)
7 Just Squeeze Me (But Don't Tease Me)
8 Caravan
9 Harlem Air Shaft
10 Moon Mist
11 Jungle Traps
12 Duke on My Mind
13 Lots O' Fingers
14 Magenta Haze
15 Diminuendo in Blue-Blow By Blow/Crescendo
With this magnificent tribute to Duke Ellington, Claude Bolling has seemingly achieved the impossible; a powerful, blow-by-blow commentary on the very substance of the Ellington achievements. The warmth is present, as is that relaxed, unmistakable swing, and also the solo contributions from the Bolling entourage come so close to the classic creations of the original men. Yes, this is surely a memorable release, never let's up for one instant on the responsibility for recreating, with such exactness, the sounds of the incomparable Duke and his unique company of performers. A distinctly superior act of homage all round... - Ken Rattenbuty.