Description
The Analog Vault // Essential Listening
The Duke at his most soulfully nocturnal. An elegant, romantic set of ballads from the master of American large-group jazz. The 1958 album features performances of jazz standards such as “Mood Indigo”, “Autumn Leaves”, and “Prelude To a Kiss”.
His all-star ensemble lay back on this beautiful set of swinging, romantic ballads now available for the first time in pristine 180-gram vinyl. Ellington was often imitated, never equaled. There’s a clear “blue mood” at work in these sessions and Kevin Gray’s all-analog mastering brings out a nocturnal mood, while keeping things warm and mellow. A deep and wide soundstage, mellifluous lows and crystalline highs make Indigos a perfect accompaniment to your late night listening. via Label
This neglected gem from Duke Ellingtons tremendous catalogue should not be overlooked. Originally released in 1958, Ellington Indigos captures the heralded American jazz pianist and his august orchestra in a blue, contemplative mood. From Ellingtons reflective opening solo on Solitude to the mournful tempo of Autumn Leaves – this ruminative and romantic LP is ideal for nocturnal contemplation over a glass of Scotch. Each velvety composition also allows a different member of Ellingtons band to take the spotlight. Whether it’s Shorty Bakers exquisite trumpet on Mood Indigo, or Johnny Hodges passionate alto saxophone on Prelude to a Kiss, or Jimmy Hamiltons fluid clarinet on Tenderly – this sterling record is a moonlit showcase for Ellington and his contemporaries. The Analog Vault
Its a rainy early evening in January, and Im sipping a martini and spinning an Impex 45rpm test pressing of Ellingtons Indigos LP. Before you read any further, drop this review and order a copy before its too lateits one of the best things Ive heard in a while. A musical gem, a sonic knockout. Originally released in 1958, Indigos is a gorgeously moody collection of tunes. Ellingtons unaccompanied piano intro to Solitude shows an exceptionally natural sound, with great studio ambience. When the band rolls in theres a thrilling dynamic kick and musical pizzazz to die forrich, throaty brass, silky strings. On Where or When youll hear the alto soloist breathing as he plays; on Mood Indigo the full orchestra really fills the room, extending wall to wall, front to back, and also in height, with an uncanny illusion of the players on a tiered bandstand, quite life-sized too. Then theres the nimble, walking bass lines, the dreamy sounding clarinet, floating in space, just so there. Impex has a fine 33 version of this title, but this one marking the titles 65th anniversary smokes it. The release includes a 16-page booklet with new liner notes and never seen photos. What a record! (via The Absolute Sound)
Label: Impex Records, Columbia
Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, 45 RPM, Album, Limited Edition, Numbered, Reissue, Remastered, Special Edition, Stereo, Mono
Released: 2024 / Original Release: 1958
Genre: Jazz
Style: Big Band
File under: TAV Essential Listening
File under: Audiophile Jazz
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