Although some historians have characterized the early '50s as Duke Ellington's "off period" (due to the defection of alto star Johnny Hodges), in reality, his 1951-1952 orchestra could hold its own against his best. This set has many classic moments, including Betty Roche's famous bebop vocal on " Take the 'A' Train, a version of The Mooche" that contrasts the different clarinet styles of Russell Procope & Jimmy Hamilton, a hot " Perdido" that is highlighted by some great Clark Terry trumpet,