Duke Ellington's orchestra swings with hard bop energy on this 1956 collection, a testament to Hodges's crucial role as a lead voice. The album captures Hodges in a particularly fertile period, showcasing his mature artistry alongside Ellington's masterful arrangements.
- The album was recorded in New York City on May 3, 1956.
- It features Ellington Orchestra members, including Duke Ellington on piano, Paul Gonsalves on tenor saxophone, and Sam Woodyard on drums.
- The LP was released on the DUKE record label, a subsidiary of Columbia Records.
Johnny Hodges was an alto saxophonist and one of the most important figures in jazz, known for his smooth, lyrical tone and graceful phrasing. At this point in his career, Hodges was a featured soloist with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, contributing significantly to the band's signature sound.
Tracklist
