Duke ellington: memories of duke

In the world of jazz, in many respects, one man is more giant than all others: Duke Ellington was truly the jazz world's greatest Renaissance man, a gifted pianist, a big band leader, and a composer of great swing tunes. His legacy is far richer and more complex than just a series of great tunes that topped the charts back in the day. The concert footage in this documentary was shot in Mexico in 1968. It includes the previously unreleased Mexican Suite plus all the Ellington classics including Satin Doll, Mood Indigo, Black and Tan Fantasy, and Take the A Train. Some of the footage was recorded in front of packed houses, some looks as if it's just from rehearsals. In addition to the concert performance, there are interviews with musicians Russell Procope and Cootie Williams, historic scenes from early films in which Ellington and his band perform and other exclusive footage. New York Magazine referred to this Gary Keys' film as "pure musical pleasure". (www.digitallyobsessed.com)