CD Review:
Being well known in the jazz community of her day, as one of the best singers of swing and bop, Ella just wasn't satisfied. Up until then, most of her releases for Decca were of the variety just spoken of. Since the advent of the LP in the '40s opened up more artists to have a go at a more pop oriented style, Ella wanted to be known as a great vocalist, not only as a swing singer, but as a great vocalist period. In order to appeal to a wider audience she decided that a compilation of 8 Gershwin tunes would be a good way to do so.
Ellis Larkins, who plays the piano on all the songs, was a great musician in his own right. Larkin was well renowned as the leader of the trio playing at the Blue Angel. He played behind such stars as Mildred Bailey and Helen Humes.
All the songs on this recording are slow piano tunes. They were meant to be that way so that what you heard was Ella's vocals interpreting Gershwin. Ella's voice has very few rivals and after these 8 songs Gershwin will never be heard so well. If you decide to delve into Gershwin and listen to various singers cover these songs you come to realize that this release is probably the best.
If you wish to find out the range and beauty of one of the best vocalists in the history of music, then this release as well as Songs in a Mellow Mood are the two best. Ella will always be known and enjoyed as a swing singer, but with this album (as well as the other mentioned) you hear her voice unfettered, without the raucous music as a distraction.
Scott D. Brown
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| Artist |
Frank Sinatra |
| Album Title |
Songs for Swingin' Lovers |
| Date Of Release |
1956 |
| Genre |
Vocal Jazz |
| Official Website |
www.sinatrafamily.com |
| |
CD Review:
Considered Sinatra's best up tempo album, he takes on a variety of material from Gershwin to Porter. Working with Nelson Riddle (arrangements) Sinatra becomes one of the greatest vocalists in American music history. Riddle, because of this partnership became legendary also. Riddle's interpretations of various songs, some over 20 years old at the time, became staples in Sinatra's canon from his '50s Capitol years. Highlights include "Pennies from Heaven" and "Love Is Here To Stay" and "I've Got You Under My Skin". Songs for Swingin' Lovers takes swing music to its apex and can be considered one of the best swing albums from the '50s. Riddle doesn't hold back making use of a full orchestra that participates smoothly.
Full Spectrum Staff
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