DUKE ELLINGTON, 1945 is part of the extensive, multi-volume Classics Chronological series released by Classics Records. This CD is a varied and immensely enjoyable collection that includes live recordings captured for WWII V-discs, as well as studio tracks from both the Duke's and Tommy Dorsey's orchestras. The live material, which was recorded at the 400 Club in New York City, features the 1945 Ellington band at its highly charged best. The ensemble swings mightily on a few hits as well as the on the extended "Black, Brown and Beige," a selection that a narrator describes as "a parallel to the history of the American Negro." The remaining studio work includes many of Ellington's best-loved pieces. While perhaps not as invigorating as some earlier versions, these tracks are played with energy and panache. The Tommy Dorsey track, which features Ellington on piano, is rambunctious, and highlights both Ellington's underrated skill on the ivories and Buddy Rich's romping drum licks. To return the favor, Dorsey turns in some gorgeous work himself on his guest spot with the Duke's band. The disc closes with "Solitude," a piece that shows Ellington's ever-willingness to experiment with new textures by including an innovative arrangement for four vocalists. Recorded in New York, New York between April 21 and May 15, 1945. Includes liner notes by Anatol Schenker. This is part of the Classics Chronological series. Personnel: Duke Ellington (piano); Ray Nance (vocals, violin); Taft Jordan (vocals, trumpet); Joya Sherrill, Kay Davis, Al Hibbler, Marie Ellington (vocals); Bob Bain, Fred Guy (guitar); Harry Carney (clarinet, bass clarinet, baritone saxophone); Gus Bivona (clarinet, alto saxophone); Jimmy Hamilton (clarinet, tenor saxophone); Joseph Parktu (clarinet); Johnny Hodges, Otto Hardwick, Sid Cooper (alto saxophone); Al Sears (tenor saxophone, bass saxophone); Babe Fresk, Vido Musso (tenor saxophone); Bruce Branson (baritone saxophone); Gerald Goff, George Seaberg, Rex Stewart, William Cat Anderson, Shelton Hemphill, Mickey Mangano, Charlie Shavers (trumpet); Dick Noel, Karl de Karske, Joe "Tricky Sam" Nanton, Lawrence Brown , Tex Satterwhite, Tommy Dorsey , Claude Jones (trombone); Sonny Greer, Buddy Rich (drums). ... Full Description Liner Note Author: Anatol Schenker. Recording information: New York, NY (04/21/1945-05/14/1945). Directors: Duke Ellington; Tommy Dorsey. Unknown Contributor Roles: Ray Nance; Sy Oliver. Personnel includes: Duke Ellington (arranger, piano); Ray Nance (vocals, trumpet, violin); Taft Jordan (vocals, trumpet); Marie Ellington, Joya Sherill, Kay Davis, Al Hibbler (vocals); Johnny Hodges, Otto Hardwick, Sid Cooper (alto saxophones); Jimmy Hamilton (tenor saxophone, clarinet); Al Sears, Vido Musso, Babe Fresk (tenor saxophone); Harry Carney (baritone saxophone, clarinet, bass clarinet); Shelton "Scad" Hemphill, William "Cat" Anderson, Rex Stewart, Taft Jordan, Charlie Shavers, George Seaberg (trumpet); Tricky Sam Nanton, Lawrence Brown, Claude Jones, Tommy Dorsey (trombone); Joeseph Park (tuba); Fred Guy, Bob Bain (guitar); Alvin "Junior" Raglin, Bob Haggart (bass); Sonny Greer, Buddy Rich (drums).