Original US Promo LP released in 1975 on Fantasy Records. Cat: F9481.

Although Duke Ellington passed away on May 24, 1974, this posthumous effort can be thought of as his orchestra's final record. Duke's son Mercer took over the big band and at least for a short time still had some surviving veterans in which to form a nucleus. Baritonist Harry Carney is heard on two numbers (taking a solo on "Drop Me Off in Harlem") from the first session before he too passed away. Also quite prominent is trumpeter Cootie Williams along with such new (and temporary) bandmembers as tenor saxophonist Ricky Ford, trumpeter Barry Lee Hall, trombonist Art Baron and altoist Geezil Minerve. The music (which includes the tribute "Carney," a fine feature for the band's new baritonist Joe Temperley) is very much in the Ellington style and mostly consists of updated remakes of Ducal standards. This disc provides a fine finish for the classic jazz institution.

Tracks: Jump for joy/ Black and tan fantasy/ Warm valley/ Drop me off in Harlem/ All too soon/ Rock skippin’ at the Blue Note/ Jeep’s blues/ Ko-ko/ carney/ Blue serge/ happy-go-lucky local.

Record is in Near Mint condition. Cover has light ring wear and is in Excellent condition.

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