Duke Ellington combined New Orleans influences with forward-thinking compositional and arranging techniques to lay the groundwork for the classic swing sound of the 1930s. 'East St. Louis Toodle-Oo', which became the band's signature tune for the early part of their career (surpassed in the 1940s by 'Take The A-Train'), is a compelling example of the 'jungle sound' for which the band were renowned, characterized by the growling, plunger-mute playing style of trumpeter Bubber Miley. The track opens with a minor melody played (and probably composed) by Miley, together with an ominous-sounding accompaniment from the rest of the band. The clouds clear briefly for the emergence of a major passage and then, following a brief return to the original phrase, a second melody enters the fray, played by the trombone. The track continues in this vein, alternating lively major passages with more doleful minor ones, but it ultimately returns to the original melody and we are left with an almost funereal ending by Miley.

Links

http://nfo.net/usa/harlem.html
A look at the Harlem locations where the music thrived.

http://redhotjazz.com
An invaluable resource on early jazz, with extensive biographies, essays and downloadable tracks.

http://www.rootsandrhythm.com/
International US-based mail order record catalogue, specializing in roots music.

http://www.jazznblues.co.uk/
UK-based jazz and blues record specialists.