In JazzNotJazz, we create a unique mixtape from 100 years of Jazz recordings, combined with relevant, or sometimes not-so-relevant facts. The focus of this program is The Soul of Jazz, so we will most definitely deviate to associated genres. We also have some infrequently recurring segments such as “De Niet Platgespeelde Standard” (The Unplayed Standard), “Ellington Train Songs,” “Jazz Cameosl,” and “More is Better.”
This time a non-stop broadcast with a thematic approach. Intensive focus on the compositions and performances of Duke Ellington (and Ellingtonians) and his orchestra, as well as corresponding performances by the contemporary jazz trio Backback from Belgium. This is their second album with such an approach. The title is ‘DUKE’.
The trio consists of Marc De Maeseneer on saxophone and bass clarinet, Filip Wauters on electric guitar and as the band leader, and Giovanni Barcella on drums. This time, they will be accompanied by guest musicians playing the trombone and vibraphone. In the gentlemen’s own words, they create music that is 50% composed and 50% improvised. Their original compositions feature modern improvisation but also occasionally showcase an idiosyncratic sound. They complement each other within the trio and sometimes take over each other’s roles.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, the idea arose to explore Duke Ellington’s compositions, specifically focusing on those that are less commonly heard. We’re not exactly sure how the selection process unfolded, but it’s indisputable that these are lesser-known yet exceptional compositions. In turn, we chose pieces from their album DUKE and found the corresponding Duke Ellington originals. We hope you enjoy this unique combination. We find Backback’s approach so successful that we secretly hope for a trilogy :-).
On 23 September 2023, we looked at Backback’s first album with Duke Ellington material (‘DEUK’), you can still listen to this episode.
Track 01: Backback, Oclupaca
Track 02: Duke Ellington, Oclupaca
Track 03: Backback, The New Piano Roll Blues
Track 04: Duke Ellington, New Piano Roll Blues
Track 05: Backback, Bakiff
Track 06: Duke Ellington, Bakiff
Track 07: Backback, Acht ‘O Clock Rock
Track 08: Duke Ellington, Acht O’Clock Rock
Track 09: Backback, Blood Count
Track 10: Duke Ellington, Blood Count
Track 11: Backback, Amour Amour
Track 12: Duke Ellington, Amour, Amour
Track 13: Backback, Echoes Of Harlem
Track 14: Duke Ellington, Echoes Of Harlem
Track 15: Backback, Portrait Of Mahalia Jackson
Track 16: Duke Ellington, Portrait Of Mahalia Jackson
