As disastrous as RCA was for the Ellington Orchestra, Columbia proved to be thoroughly accommodating, understanding and sympathetic. However, Ellington saw Capitol as the ‘new kid on the block’ with ideas and ambitions that suited his own almost desperate need for revitalization, so he moved on.

This show features his ambitious sides with Columbia, followed by a strong push toward commercial (and artistic) success on Capitol…only to return to Columbia.

Featured tracks include:

The Hawk Talks

A Tone Parallel to Harlem

Satin Doll

Stardust

Boo-Dah

Who Knows

Prelude to a Kiss

Night Time

Isle of Capri

Once in a Blue Mood

Rockin’ in Rhythm