This episode focuses on a renewed sense of innovation in Jazz.

Duke Ellington is our focus, as he predated most of the big bands, but he kept moving forward and eclipsing the competition. We will hear a few examples of how the Great American Songbook served as a rich source for material for the new breed of soloists as we approach the age of Be-Bop.

Featured tracks include:

East St. Louis Toodle-oo – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

The New East St. Louis Toodle-oo – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

Diminuendo in Blue and Crescendo in Blue - Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

Ko-Ko – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

Concerto for Cootie – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

Cotton Tail – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

In a Mellotone – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

Blue Serge – Duke Ellington and his Orchestra

I Got Rhythm – Don Byas and Slam Stewart

I Can’t Get Started – Dizzy Gillespie Sextet

Shaw ‘Nuff – Dizzy Gillespie All Star Quintette

 Koko – Charlie Parker