Ella Fitzgerald - Early Ella

Review by Michael Miller

Early Ella is a compilation album that showcases the early works of the legendary jazz vocalist Ella Fitzgerald. Released in 1994, the album features recordings from the 1930s and 1940s, when Fitzgerald was still a young and emerging artist.

The album opens with the upbeat and swinging "A-Tisket, A-Tasket," which was one of Fitzgerald's first big hits. The song is a fun and playful tune that showcases her incredible vocal range and improvisational skills. Other highlights on the album include the soulful ballad "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You" and the bluesy "Sugar Blues."

One of the most impressive aspects of Early Ella is the way it captures the essence of Fitzgerald's early years. Her voice is youthful and vibrant, and her phrasing and timing are impeccable. The album also features some of the top musicians of the era, including pianist Teddy Wilson and trumpeter Roy Eldridge, who provide a solid and swinging backing for Fitzgerald's vocals.

Summary by Michael Miller

Early Ella is a must-have for any fan of jazz or vocal music. It's a wonderful tribute to one of the greatest singers of all time and a reminder of why Fitzgerald remains such an influential and beloved figure in the world of music.