ProJazz.net

Creamy is an album recorded by American jazz saxophonist Johnny Hodges featuring performances with members of the Duke Ellington Orchestra recorded in 1955 and released on the Norgran label.

“Johnny Hodges’ small group dates for various Norman Granz-owned labels (Norgran, Clef, and Verve) pleased fans of Duke Ellington, due in part to the frequent presence of fellow sideman from the band. The 1955 Creamy session is no exception, with Clark Terry (trumpet and flügelhorn), baritone saxophonist Harry Carney, clarinetist Jimmy Hamilton (who doubles on tenor sax), and trombonist Lawrence Brown joining Hodges in the front line. The rhythm section consists of Billy Strayhorn, bassist Jimmy Woode, and drummer Sonny Greer. In addition to a long ballad medley with individual features for each player (except for Greer), the remainder of the date is devoted to originals by Hodges or Strayhorn, along with “Scufflin’,” an impromptu-sounding swinger credited to the alto saxophonist’s wife, Cue Hodges. While there are no real surprises anywhere on this record, it is well worth acquiring.” – Ken Dryden/AllMusic.

Track listing:
1. “The Ballad Medley: Whispering/Tenderly/Don’t Take Your Love from Me/Prelude to a Kiss/Polka Dots and Moonbeams/Passion Flower” (Vincent Rose, John Schonberger, Richard Coburn/Walter Gross, Jack Lawrence/Henry Nemo/Duke Ellington, Irving Gordon, Irving Mills/Jimmy Van Heusen, Johnny Burke/Billy Strayhorn) – 15:19
2. “Scufflin'” (Cue Hodges) – 8:13
3. “Honey Bunny” (Johnny Hodges) – 6:37
4. “Passion” (Strayhorn) – 3:20
5. “Pretty Little Girl” (Strayhorn) – 2:28
6. “No Use Kicking” (Johnny Hodges) – 10:32

Personnel:
Johnny Hodges – alto saxophone
Clark Terry – trumpet
Lawrence Brown – trombone
Jimmy Hamilton – clarinet, tenor saxophone
Harry Carney – baritone saxophone
Billy Strayhorn – piano
Jimmy Woode – bass
Sonny Greer – drums

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Released: 1955
Recorded: September 8, 1955
New York City
Length: 46:29
Label: Norgran MGN 1045
Producer: Norman Granz