1952-1953

This CD documents another important transition in the career of Duke Ellington. From 1947-53, the pianist and his band had recorded for Columbia. These were not the easiest years for the jazz record business, despite the introduction of the LP. Duke Ellington changed over to Capitol records in 1953 and stayed with the label until 1955. The music made during that period has been unduly neglected by critics for various reasons. This CD opens with two well known extended tracks that have often been reissued. However, the remaining performances from the end of 1952 have rarely been heard for half a century.