What makes Plays Duke Ellington by World Saxophone Quartet notable?

This album is significant for its bold reinterpretation of Duke Ellington's work, showcasing the quartet's ability to maintain the essence of the originals while injecting a modern flair. It received critical acclaim, helping to inspire a renewed interest in Ellington’s music among younger audiences and jazz musicians, and it remains a key reference point for saxophonists exploring ensemble performance. Released in 1986, this album followed the World Saxophone Quartet's acclaimed debut, 'Steppin' with the World Saxophone Quartet,' solidifying their innovative approach to jazz. At this time, they were gaining recognition for their unique blend of avant-garde and traditional jazz elements, positioning themselves as leading figures in contemporary jazz.

How many songs are on Plays Duke Ellington?

Plays Duke Ellington has 8 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Plays Duke Ellington

World Saxophone Quartet · 1986

39 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A vibrant homage where intertwining saxophones reinterpret classic Ellington compositions with fresh improvisational energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Lush Life — This track captures the quartet's intricate harmonies and emotional depth, highlighting their technical prowess while paying tribute to Ellington's lyrical sophistication.
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Sophisticated Lady — The arrangement showcases a rich tapestry of sound, emphasizing each member's distinct voice while maintaining the song's elegant essence.
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Come Sunday — This interpretation stands out for its contemplative mood and spiritual resonance, allowing the quartet to explore deeper emotional landscapes within Ellington's composition.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions with skilled execution, balancing homage and innovation in jazz.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of four saxophones, each taking turns in the lead while the others provide harmonic support.
Tracks often begin with a clear statement of the melody before devolving into improvisational sections that explore different rhythmic and melodic ideas.
Several pieces include abrupt tempo changes, creating a dynamic contrast between sections that keeps the listener engaged.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Take the “A” Train 1:38
2 Lush Life 6:35
3 Prelude to a Kiss 2:48
4 Sophisticated Lady 4:45
5 I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart 6:08
6 Come Sunday 7:44
7 In a Sentimental Mood 5:21
8 Take the “A” Train 4:57

What to play next

Listen next

Dances and Ballads

1988

Go back to

Revue

1982

Full World Saxophone Quartet discography Artists like World Saxophone Quartet

jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata