Album: Blues in Orbit

Overview
" Blues in Orbit" is a studio album from 1960 by popular jazz musician and author Duke Ellington and his orchestra. The album was launched through Columbia Records, with the original LP being reissued on cd in 1991. The album showcases Ellington's large skills as an author, arranger, and pianist, with a strong focus on blues and swing.

Throughout his long and legendary career, Duke Ellington continuously explored and pushed the boundaries of jazz. "Blues in Orbit" stands as a testimony to his continued drive to innovate and includes a variety of both new compositions and reimagined classics from his collection.

Track Listing and Notable Songs
The album "Blues in Orbit" includes 11 tracks in overall, with the original 1960 LP consisting of 9 and the 1991 reissue CD consisting of two extra tracks from the exact same recording sessions. Some significant songs on the album consist of:

1. "Three J's Blues" - This track opens the album with a relaxed and swinging blues tune, featuring solos by saxophonist Jimmy Hamilton, trombonist John Sanders, and trumpeter Johnny Hodges.

2. "Smada" - One of the original compositions written by Ellington and his long time composing partner Billy Strayhorn, "Smada" is a stylish and advanced piece with abundant harmonies and lovely interaction between the numerous instrumental sections.

3. "Pie Eye's Blues" - This track highlights the skills of tenor saxophonist Paul Gonsalves, who delivers a soulful and appealing solo over a bluesy background.

4. "Sweet and Pungent" - Another timeless Ellington structure, "Sweet and Pungent" is a slow and sultry blues number that showcases lavish brass and woodwind plans.

5. "Blues in Blueprint" - A showcase for the Ellington orchestra's tight ensemble playing, this track has the feel of a dynamic jam session with detailed solos by trumpeter Ray Nance and clarinetist Russell Procope.

6. "The Swinger's Jump" - This up-tempo swing number features amazing solos from several band members, making it a thrilling and energetic track.

Contributing Musicians
" Blues in Orbit" features a lineup of a few of Duke Ellington's many skilled artists of the time, with many of them thought about to be legends in their own right. A few of the key contributors to the album include:

- Duke Ellington - Piano
- Billy Strayhorn - Piano (track 6).
- Johnny Hodges - Alto Saxophone.
- Paul Gonsalves - Tenor Saxophone.
- Jimmy Hamilton - Clarinet, Tenor Saxophone.
- Russell Procope - Clarinet, Alto Saxophone.
- Harry Carney - Baritone Saxophone.
- Ray Nance - Trumpet, Violin.
- William "Cat" Anderson - Trumpet.
- Clark Terry - Trumpet.
- Juan Tizol - Trombone.

Tradition and Reception
" Blues in Orbit" got favorable evaluations upon its release and continues to be considered a traditional Duke Ellington recording. The album stands as a distinct mix of blues, swing, and up-tempo jazz, showcasing Ellington's versatility and unmatched ability to put together a top-notch band of musicians.

" Blues in Orbit" remains a necessary addition to any jazz collection, showcasing the classic genius of Duke Ellington and his famous orchestra in full swing. The album's diverse series of tracks highlights the full spectrum of Ellington's skills as an author and bandleader and brings the listeners on a journey through different styles of jazz.