“On Duke’s Birthday:” A Jazz Tribute by the Mike Westbrook Orchestra

Introduction:

The jazz world is filled with tributes, homages, and celebrations of past masters, but few manage to capture the essence of their inspiration while forging new paths quite like Mike Westbrook’s “On Duke’s Birthday.” Released in 1985, this live album by the Mike Westbrook Orchestra is a dedicated suite to the memory of Duke Ellington, recorded on May 12, 1984, at Le Grand Theatre in Amiens, France. As a significant piece in Westbrook’s discography, this album exemplifies his innovative approach to orchestral jazz, blending structured composition with spontaneous improvisation.

A Tribute to a Legend:

Commissioned by the festivals Le Temps du Jazz and Jazz en France-Angouleme to mark the 10th anniversary of Ellington’s death, “On Duke’s Birthday” is more than a mere homage. It’s a vibrant conversation between the past and the present, merging Ellington’s influence with Westbrook’s unique musical vision. The album consists of a five-song suite, each composition a testament to the lasting impact of Duke Ellington on jazz and Westbrook’s capacity to honor that legacy while pushing musical boundaries.

The Musical Journey:

1. “Checking in at Hotel Le Prieure”: The album opens with “Checking in at Hotel Le Prieure,” an eight-minute and fifty-second piece that sets the tone for the suite. The track features a fluid interplay of melodic and rhythmic elements within a harmonic framework that is both tight and expansive. Westbrook’s composition flows naturally, allowing the orchestra to explore thematic material in a way that is both structured and freewheeling. The piece swings with an energy reminiscent of classic big band jazz, yet it’s imbued with a modern sensibility that keeps it fresh and engaging.
2. “On Duke’s Birthday 1”: The first part of the title track, “On Duke’s Birthday 1,” spans over sixteen minutes. Here, Westbrook channels the spirit of Ellington without resorting to direct imitation. Instead, he crafts an impressionistic soundscape where the cello of Georgie Born and the horns create a tapestry of subtle chord voicings and dynamic contrasts. This piece showcases Westbrook’s ability to weave complex harmonies and melodies into a coherent and compelling musical narrative.
3. “East Stratford Too-Doo”: “East Stratford Too-Doo” is the longest track on the album, clocking in at twenty-three minutes. It echoes the thematic structure of Ellington’s “Such Sweet Thunder” but diverges in its harmonic and dynamic execution. The track unfolds gradually, maintaining a steady groove with chromatic horn arrangements and a laid-back drum chart by Tony Marsh. The piece stays “in the pocket,” allowing the musicians to explore and expand on the thematic material with a relaxed yet precise approach.
4. “On Duke’s Birthday 2”: The second part of the title track, “On Duke’s Birthday 2,” continues the musical journey with a nineteen-minute exploration. This segment is marked by a dialog between the various sections of the orchestra, with each instrument adding its voice to the collective conversation. The interplay between Georgie Born’s cello and the horns creates a rich, textured sound that is both evocative and innovative. The piece evolves organically, reflecting Westbrook’s skill in balancing composition and improvisation.
5. “Music Is…”: The suite concludes with “Music Is…,” a thirteen-minute piece that encapsulates the album’s themes and moods. This final track brings together the various musical elements explored throughout the suite, culminating in a powerful and satisfying resolution. The orchestra’s performance is tight and cohesive, reflecting their deep understanding of Westbrook’s vision and their ability to bring it to life with passion and precision.

Critical Reception:

“On Duke’s Birthday” received widespread acclaim from critics and jazz enthusiasts alike. The Penguin Guide to Jazz identified the album as part of their “Core Collection” of essential jazz albums, highlighting its significance in Westbrook’s oeuvre and its enduring appeal. Allmusic’s Thom Jurek praised the album for its accessibility and the ingenious way it opens up diatonic harmony to new colors and shades, ultimately declaring it one of Westbrook’s most accessible records. Chris May of All About Jazz called it “an enduring album of idiosyncratically conceived and brilliantly realized orchestral jazz”. John Fordham of The Guardian awarded the album four out of five stars, noting how effectively Westbrook evokes the spirits of his heroes without mimicking them.

Personnel and Performance:

The Mike Westbrook Orchestra is a dynamic ensemble that brings Westbrook’s compositions to life with skill and creativity. The personnel on “On Duke’s Birthday” includes:

• Mike Westbrook – Piano
• Dominique Pifarély – Violin
• Georgie Born – Cello
• Brian Godding – Electric Guitar
• Chris Biscoe – Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Piccolo, Alto Clarinet
• Danilo Terenzi – Trombone
• Kate Westbrook – Tenor Horn, Piccolo, Bamboo Flute, Voice
• Stuart Brooks, Phil Minton – Trumpet, Voice
• Steve Cook – Bass Guitar
• Tony Marsh – Drums

Each member of the orchestra contributes their unique voice to the collective sound, creating a rich and varied musical palette. The combination of traditional jazz instruments with less conventional choices like the tenor horn and bamboo flute adds depth and texture to the music.

“On Duke’s Birthday” stands as a testament to Mike Westbrook’s ability to honor the legacy of Duke Ellington while forging his own path in the world of jazz. The album’s blend of structured composition and free-flowing improvisation creates a musical journey that is both challenging and accessible. It captures the essence of Ellington’s influence while showcasing Westbrook’s innovative approach to orchestral jazz.

For anyone looking to explore the intersections of tradition and innovation in jazz, “On Duke’s Birthday” is a must-listen. Its enduring appeal and critical acclaim make it a standout album in Westbrook’s discography and a fitting tribute to one of jazz’s greatest legends.

References:

1. Cook, R. & Morton, B. (2008). The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings. Penguin Books.
2. “On Duke’s Birthday” album cover art. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:On_Duke%27s_Birthday.jpg