Back To Back (Acoustic Sounds) (180g) [LP]

Alto saxophonist Johnny Hodges repeatedly pursued solo paths throughout his career, only to return to Duke Ellington's band each time. Even though this procedure was old hat by the time Back To Back was recorded in 1959, there seems to have been a constant tension between Ellington and Hodges. Perhaps the blues classics chosen were just the right neutral ground for the two musicians' complicated relationship. A platform on which Ellington's unique piano playing can come to the fore and Hodge's irrepressible sensuality has free rein. The two are accompanied by none other than Harry "Sweets" Edison, Les Spann, Al Hall, Sam Jones and Jo Jones Jones and Jo Jones.