One of the giants of the alto saxophone, Johnny Hodges was perhaps the most important soloist and sideman in Duke Ellington's orchestra from 1928 up to Hodges' death in 1970. The self-taught player made many solo forays during his long career - one of his '50s outfits included a young John Coltrane - but history remembers Hodges for his virtuosic sidemanship, particularly his sensitive rendering of ballads.

Innovative pianist and organist Milt Buckner originated the "locked hands" technique, emulated by his and future generations from George Shearing to Red Garland to Oscar Peterson and beyond. This album features Buckner with an all-star rhythm section of bassist Jimmy Woode, a Duke Ellington alumnus, and great swing drummer Jo Jones of the Count Basie Orchestra. Play Chords was awarded the Hot Club de France’s prestigious Grand Prix de Jazz for the best album of 1967.

Innovative pianist and organist Milt Buckner originated the "locked hands" technique, a method of playing that was emulated by his and future generations, from George Shearing to Red Garland to Oscar Peterson and beyond. More Chords, released in 1969, is the third of the trio albums Buckner recorded for German label MPS and features Buckner with bassist Jimmy Woode, a Duke Ellington alumnus, as well as British drummer Kenny Clare, who played with Aretha Franklin and Tony Bennett.