Duke Ellington has long been one of Abdullah Ibrahim’s main inspirations, along with South African folk music, religious themes and Thelonious Monk. Ibrahim has paid tribute to Duke many times throughout his career. This European CD is a relaxed and thoughtful solo set in which the pianist improvises impressionistic medleys, sometimes mixing in a few of his themes with Ellington’s music. Such Duke-associated tunes as “Caravan,” “Solitude,” “In a Sentimental Mood,” “Come Sunday,” “Duke’s Place” and “Drop Me Off In Harlem” are a few of the Ellington pieces that pop up in spots. An interesting and somewhat introspective (if ultimately joyful) recital of reverent music.
