Duke Ellington - Blues In Orbit [MFSL UDCD 757 SACD] 24-bit/96kHz from SACD

"Blues in Orbit" seems to get overlooked when Ellington's best albums are discussed, but it is a real keeper. There are 11 tracks, none of them is longer than 4:50 and it is all good stuff. There are some familiar favorites like "In a Mellotone" and "C Jam Blues" as well as less often heard gems like "Blues in Blueprint and "Sweet and Pungent".

The featured performers include Ellington stalwarts Johnny Hodges, Ray Nance, Harry Carney and Jimmy Hamilton, as well as the less familiar Booty Wood and Matthew Gee. Johnny, in particular is well showcased here, taking the lead in the rousing, "Smada", which is probably my favorite track. Ray shines on his trumpet, but also gets to play the violin on "C Jam Blues". [customer review on a music store website]