Dedicated to one of the founding figures of orchestral jazz, this box set produced by Alain Pailler and Tony Baldwin explores the decisive years of Duke Ellington, a leading force of the Harlem Renaissance between 1927 and 1931. From the earliest iconic recordings (Black and Tan Fantasy, 1927) to sonic frescoes such as Jungle Nights in Harlem (1930), Ellington forged a “jungle” aesthetic blending blues, theatricality, and urban modernity. Driven by major soloists, this collection captures the emergence of an orchestral art in full transformation, rich in unprecedented timbres and powerful expressiveness. Carefully restored, this set brings out the full sonic richness of the Duke’s orchestras, with a presence and clarity that immerse the listener at the very heart of the era. Patrick FRÉMEAUX