Plays the Legacy of Duke Ellington

by James Spaulding

Overview

Despite being a top altoist and flutist since at least the mid-'60s, when he played with Freddie Hubbard's band, James Spaulding did not get his recording debut as a leader until this 1976 LP. Spaulding, on various flutes, piccolo, soprano and alto, performs eight songs associated with Duke Ellington, including "Take the 'A' Train" (a Billy Strayhorn composition mistakenly co-credited in the liners to Duke), "Come Sunday," an impressive flute showcase on "Sophisticated Lady" and "It Don't Mean a Thing." Spaulding is joined by pianist Cedar Walton, a young Steve Nelson on vibes, bassist Sam Jones, drummer Billy Higgins and percussionist Mtume. The most unusual aspect of this set is that Avery Brooks (who has a deep baritone that Ellington might have liked) sings four of the eight songs. A sincere tribute. ~ Scott Yanow

Product Details

Release Date:	02/12/2013
Label:	Storyville Records
UPC:	0717101842322
Rank:	163733

Tracks

1. Take the "A" Train
2. In a Sentimental Mood
3. Come Sunday
4. Caravan
5. I Love You Madly
6. Lucky So and So
7. Sophisticated Lady
8. It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing

Album Credits

Performance Credits

James Spaulding   Primary Artist,Flute,Piccolo,Sax (Alto),Flute (Bass),Flute (Tenor),Sax (Soprano)
Billy Higgins   Drums
James Mtume   Congas,Percussion
Sam Jones   Bass
Cedar Walton   Piano
Avery Brooks   Vocals
Steve Nelson   Vibraphone

Technical Credits

Robert Johnson, Jr.   Photography
Duke Ellington   Composer
Mack David   Composer
Juan Tizol   Composer
Billy Strayhorn   Composer
Anders Stefansen   Producer
Marty Kahn   Producer
Jorgen Vad   Engineer
Alun Morgan   Liner Notes
Howie Gabriel   Production Assistant
Bob Blank   Engineer