The Complete Roulette Sessions with Louis Armstrong and his band featuring Duke Ellington on piano was recorded in 1961. The two jazz icons explore 17 of Ellington's compositions. Azalea had not been released at the time and is one of my favorite hidden gems. Everyone is in fine form. Armstrong's vocals and playing are warm and exciting in spite of the fact that he is 60 years old at the time. Duke is 62 years old. The band gives Duke plenty of room for solos which he never had space for in his big band. Trummy Young is on Trombone, Mort Herbert on Bass and Danny Barcelona on Drums. Barney Bigard puts in boisterous and joyful clarinet lines that sparkle with wit and exuberance. The relaxed feel presents two masters in the autumn of their years having a blast playing the music they forged in their youth. Whether you are a die hard jazz fan or just starting to listen you will have a hard time not getting caught up in the fun.
Complete Album
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_ZRkECn-BZzUspf3TcbM8KSIgehDB_4v
