Louis Bellson, 1924-2009

Thanks, Mr. Bellson.

Luigi Paulino Alfredo Francesco Antonio Balassoni. What a name! Still, I understand why he shortened it to Louie Bellson. The great drummer died February 14. He enjoyed a long career as an elite drummer in part because he could play with the impeccable taste heard on this 1973 track from an Ellington compilation and also like the showy powerhouse on display in this nine-minute drum solo.

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Estelle Bennett of the Ronettes died last week. She was 67. (Tip via BGO.)

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Jazz musicians Coleman Mellett and Gerry Niewood were passengers on Flight 3407. The music at their MySpace accounts reveal the unique talents of both men.

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Trainspotters will note that Ellington's appearance here makes him only the third artist to be featured more than once in over 700 posts at There Stands the Glass.

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Kansas City Click: Marah and Tony Ladesich are at the Record Bar tonight.