Duke Ellington is seen by many as one of the frontrunners of Jazz and as one of the greatest composers of the 20th century.
He was a part of the Harlem Renaissance and many feel that because of him, Jazz gained recognition as a art form.

Many of his instrumental songs have become Jazz standards, and his distinctive style remains a shining beacon in music.
Thanks to a stellar performance at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1957 there was a renewed interest in his music and his orchestra, and they performed all over the world.

'Blues In Orbit' was mostly recorded during one after-midnight session after they had returned from a run of shows in Europe.
It presents a Big Band in full swing; there is true synergy at work here that could only come from a group of musicians that expect – and get – the  best from each other.
Free flowing improvisations and straightforward arrangements show a band that is kicking back, relaxing, and doing it nice 'n' easy.

• 180 grams audiophile vinyl

A1 Three J's Blues   
A2 Smada    
A3 Pie Eye's Blues  
A4 Sweet & Pungent   
A5 C Jam Blues

B1 In A Mellow Tone   
B2 Blues In Blueprint   
B3 The Swingers Get The Blues, Too
B4 The Swinger's Jump  
B5 Blues In Orbit  
B6 Villes Ville Is The Place, Man