In the Beginning

In the Beginning presents Duke Ellington through twenty compositions that connect energetic swing, blues feeling and refined ballads. The 2003 compilation features a selection of themes and less obvious titles, providing an accessible entry into the musical world of one of the most important composers and orchestra leaders in jazz history.

The opening Take the 'A' Train, a composition by Billy Strayhorn, introduces the elegance of orchestral jazz. Main Stem, Cotton Tail and In a Mellotone continue the rhythmically more lively part of the program, while It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing emphasizes the importance of momentum and a sense of rhythm already in the title. The relationship between the instrumental sections, the melodic clarity and the space for the soloist's personality are at the center.

The calmer side of the selection is represented by In a Sentimental Mood, Sophisticated Lady and the final Solitude. These compositions show how key tonal color, melody and restrained emotion are to Ellington's expression. I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good and All Too Soon further enrich that part of the repertoire, offering a break between more energetic numbers.

The album also includes Perdido, Creole Love Call, The Jeep Is Jumpin' and Jack the Bear, so the selection provides a diverse overview of his musical moods. This CD is intended for fans of swing and classical orchestral jazz, but also for those who are just discovering Ellington's repertoire. It works well as a collection for relaxed listening, with enough detail to follow the arrangements, rhythm, and individual instrumental parts.