No surprises, but the session was as good as one might hope. Gathered here was the
Ellington
band with
Billy Strayhorn
at the piano. While it was not an
record, the band brought its solid qualities in backing and the occasional solo to all the fine
Hodges
features. This was an integrated unit, not some detached studio band for
to blow over, under, around, and through. It was wonderful
and fine
. ~ Bob Rusch, Cadence