Cat Anderson

Following on the heels of the smashing, creative apex caught on The Blanton-Webster Years, Black, Brown & Beige encompasses segments of two suite-length works, Ellington's first long-form works.

As the original liner notes for the Indigos album clearly states, the Ellington orchestra not only performed in concert halls -presenting extended suites to be listened to from the comfort of a plush theatre seat - it was also a legendary dance band, accustomed to playing very personal versions of the most celebrated standards as well as the numerous compositions by its leader.

During his long and prolific career, Duke Ellington composed music for concerts ranging from the most prestigious venues to dance halls. He also wrote for the theatre, for movies, and, of course, for records. The work contained on this album, however, originates from an early television special.

This release compiles a rare batch of small group studio sessions recorded by Duke Ellington between 1956 and 1958, including eight amazing quartet tracks with Paul Gonsalves, as well as quintets, sextets and septets, showcasing not only the Duke’s amazing talents but also those of his selected soloists.