Planet D Nonet: Echoes of Harlem: A Salute to Duke Ellington Vol 2

Operating on the time-honored principle that one successful tribute deserves another, the Detroit-based Planet D Nonet has recorded Echoes of Harlem, Vol. 2, an homage to the great Duke Ellington and follow-up to the ensemble's well-received album from 2023, Blues to Be There: A Salute to Duke Ellington.

Each of the studio session's fifteen selections was written by Ellington and/or Billy Strayhorn, and the ensemble does its best Ellington impression interpreting them, even replicating the distinctive rhythmic, melodic and harmonic patterns of the Ellington era, which began in the early 1920s and endured for almost half a century. At times, it sounds as if Ellington and his legendary orchestra had been reborn, thanks to decisive arrangements by Jeff Curry and others teamed with an earnest consideration from the nonet. The songs themselves are for the most part rarely heard gems, the exceptions being Strayhorn's "Blood Count" and Ellington's "I'm Gonna Go Fishin'" (from the film Anatomy of a Murder) and the well-known finale, "Sophisticated Lady." Ellington is given composer's credit for "Caravan," even though many scholars attribute its authorship to trombonist Juan Tizol, perhaps with input from the Duke.

In keeping with the Ellington motif, most soloists adapt their voices to suit the era, adding more modern licks when needed to help redesign the venerable framework. Among those who stand out are trumpeter James O'Donnell (who adds a gravelly Louis Armstrong-style vocal on "Azalea"), alto saxophonist Alex Colista, tenor Christopher Tabaczynski (warm and mellow a la Ben Webster on "Happy Reunion"), baritone Goode Wyche III and pianist Michael Zaporski who lends special elegance to "Sophisticated Lady," which he plays a cappella. Besides O'Donnell, there are respectable vocals by guest artist Camille Price on "Rocks in My Bed" and trombonist John "Tbone" Paxton on "Caravan."

Unlike some tribute albums that veer off course, Planet D Nonet is staunchly devoted to Ellington's spirit and music, and Echoes of Harlem, Vol. 2 does its best to introduce a new generation of listeners to the Duke's remarkable originality, talent and resourcefulness.

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