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— The Analog Vault // Essential Listening —

The Duke at his most soulfully nocturnal. An elegant, romantic set of ballads from the master of American large-group jazz. The 1958 album features performances of jazz standards such as "Mood Indigo", "Autumn Leaves", and "Prelude To a Kiss".

His all-star ensemble lay back on this beautiful set of swinging, romantic ballads now available for the first time in pristine 180-gram vinyl. Ellington was often imitated, never equaled. There's a clear "blue mood" at work in these sessions and Kevin Gray's all-analog mastering brings out a nocturnal mood, while keeping things warm and mellow. A deep and wide soundstage, mellifluous lows and crystalline highs make Indigos a perfect accompaniment to your late night listening. — via Label

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This neglected gem from Duke Ellington’s tremendous catalogue should not be overlooked. Originally released in 1958, Ellington Indigos captures the heralded American jazz pianist and his august orchestra in a blue, contemplative mood. From Ellington’s reflective opening solo on “Solitude” to the mournful tempo of “Autumn Leaves” - this ruminative and romantic LP is ideal for nocturnal contemplation over a glass of Scotch. Each velvety composition also allows a different member of Ellington’s band to take the spotlight. Whether it's Shorty Baker’s exquisite trumpet on “Mood Indigo”, or Johnny Hodges’ passionate alto saxophone on “Prelude to a Kiss”, or Jimmy Hamilton’s fluid clarinet on “Tenderly” - this sterling record is a moonlit showcase for Ellington and his contemporaries.  — The Analog Vault

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It’s a rainy early evening in January, and I’m sipping a martini and spinning an Impex 45rpm test pressing of Ellington’s Indigos LP. Before you read any further, drop this review and order a copy before it’s too late—it’s one of the best things I’ve heard in a while. A musical gem, a sonic knockout. Originally released in 1958, Indigos is a gorgeously moody collection of tunes. Ellington’s unaccompanied piano intro to “Solitude” shows an exceptionally natural sound, with great studio ambience. When the band rolls in there’s a thrilling dynamic kick and musical pizzazz to die for—rich, throaty brass, silky strings. On “Where or When” you’ll hear the alto soloist breathing as he plays; on “Mood Indigo” the full orchestra really fills the room, extending wall to wall, front to back, and also in height, with an uncanny illusion of the players on a tiered bandstand, quite life-sized too. Then there’s the nimble, walking bass lines, the dreamy sounding clarinet, floating in space, just so “there.” Impex has a fine 33 version of this title, but this one marking the title’s 65th anniversary smokes it. The release includes a 16-page booklet with new liner notes and never seen photos. What a record! — (via The Absolute Sound)

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Label: Impex Records, Columbia
Format: 2 x Vinyl, LP, 45 RPM, Album, Limited Edition, Numbered, Reissue, Remastered, Special Edition, Stereo, Mono
Released: 2024 / Original Release: 1958
Genre: Jazz
Style: Big Band

File under: TAV Essential Listening
File under:  Audiophile Jazz
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