Kentucky Jazz Repertory Orchestra: Ellington Celebration

Repertory ensembles perform a vital function in our society. They help us to retain the true art of our culture instead of falling prey to periodic fads and daily hype. True, their work is not brand-new or leading edge; but it’s certainly fresh, unique, and always welcome. The selections on Ellington Celebration were transcribed meticulously and are reproduced in this new recording with care taken to emulate the original ensemble blend without the customary vain attempts at copying the masters. Like Duke Ellington’s bands, the individuals play an important part through call & response, solos and counterpoint. Memories of Lawrence Brown, Johnny Hodges, Cat Anderson, Harry Carney, Bubber Miley, Sonny Greer’s temple blocks... These individuals remain in our collective memory and are served well through the repertory orchestra’s soloists. Key individual performances are offered by Vince DiMartino on trumpet, Miles Osland on alto saxophone, Dick Domek on piano, and Lisa Parent Osland on baritone sax and bass clarinet. Pianist Raleigh Dailey performs "Reflections in D" alone and somber with a subtle arco bass accompaniment. A few of Ellington’s lesser-known works round out the album, adding to the session’s value: "Stevedore Stomp," Juan Tizol’s "Bakiff," "Portrait of Louis Armstrong," "Track 360" and "Grace Valse" from Ellington’s score for Anatomy Of A Murder. As an educational tool with comprehensive narration, this recommended centenary tribute serves to perpetuate America’s classical music while offering the listener quality and good taste.