DUKE ELLINGTON AND HIS ORCHESTRA – 1930, Vol. 2 | The Classics Chronological Series – 596 (1991) FLAC (tracks), lossless

Although susceptible to some of the commercial pressures that other bands were feeling in 1930, which accounts for the inclusion of a few pop numbers and some added vocalists, in general the recordings of Duke Ellington were at the same high level in 1930 that they had been in 1929. There are many gems on this set, including "Double Check Stomp," a remake of "Black and Tan Fantasy," "Old Man Blues," and the two earliest recordings of "Mood Indigo," and even a throwaway such as "That Lindy Hop" is still worth hearing. The Rhythm Boys (Bing Crosby, Al Rinker, and Harry Barris) guest on "Three Little Words," and star soloists throughout the program include Cootie Williams, Tricky Sam Nanton, Barney Bigard, and Johnny Hodges. Scott Yanow     Tracklist + Credits :