Sings Duke Ellington [LP Crystal Clear & Solid White Vinyl import]

Nina Simone - Sings Duke Ellington [LP Crystal Clear & Solid White Vinyl import]

This is one of Nina Simone’s best albums in a long time. She’s taken a flock of Duke Ellington tunes, some familiar and some not-so-familiar, and handed them interesting and intriguing renditions in her own special style. The album's a bit straighter than later efforts, with large backings by Stu Phillips that also feature vocals by the Malcolm Dodds Singers. The result is a masterpiece, proof that even in her early years, Nina could completely transform anything she laid her hands on, and unlock a soulful depth that even the original recordings might have missed. Titles include "I Got It Bad", "Solitude", "The Gal From Joe's", "It Don't Mean A Thing", and "I Like The Sunrise". Side A 1. Do Nothin’ Till You Hear From Me 2. I Got It Bad (And That Ain’t Good) 3. Hey, Buddy Bolden 4. Merry Mending 5. Something To Live For 6. You Better Know It 7. I Like The Sunrise Side B 1. Solitude 2. The Gal From Joe’s 3. Satin Doll 4. It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing) 5. Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out 6. I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl 7. Since My Love Has Gone