The Blanton-Webster Band

Posted by: Huwge on 11 May 2005

Recently I was trying to place an album by Ben Webster for a fellow forum member (sjust). While considering options, I mentioned the Bluebird 3-CD set of the Duke Ellington Band from 1940-1942.

When you have a large music collection, inevitably some stuff will fall below the radar. Stefan put this album back in the forefront and I have enjoyed this evening with a glass or two of Italinan red and the Blanton-Webster band - Cotton tail, Jack the Bear, Flamingo, Koko, Chelsea Bridge ...

For anyone interested in the evolution of popular music, I can only give this my wholehearted reccommendation.

Huw

Posted on: 17 May 2005 by Kevin-W

I agree, I've got this on vinyl and it's stunning...

One of the Duke's finest-ever bands

K

Posted on: 17 May 2005 by Pete M

There's also another Ellington box set in the same series 'Black Brown and Biege: The 1944-46 Recordinds'. It's also pretty good.

Posted on: 18 May 2005 by woodface

I am a pretty fervent Ellington fan but I do get put off by the sound quality on the early recordings. Obviously there is little that can be done with disc transfers. I was listening to the 'back to back' small group sessions with Johnny Hodges recently and they really are stunning!