Duke Ellington Presents…, recorded for Bethlehem in 1956, is unusual in that it consists mainly of standards. On it, Duke and key soloists work wonders on such chestnuts as "My Funny Valentine," "Summertime," "Laura," and the Rosetta Stone of be-bop, "I Can’t Get Started," plus a few choice Ellington originals. Duke Ellington Presents… is an accessible entry point for newcomers, as well as an overlooked gem for Duke fans.