Ella Takes Over Chick Webb's Band
T. Gardner | St. Paul, MN | 09/09/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a really swingin' CD. Ella took over Chick Webb's band after his death and it was one of the best big bands ever. The band didn't get the notoriety of bands like Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw or Glenn Miller but the band's pedigree was that they were the house band for the Savoy Ballroom. 'Nuff said.
Ella doesn't sing but she makes the band swing on this playlist of instrumentals. However, this is a live recording from the Savoy Ballroom and you hear Ella on many of the numbers egging the band on. It adds that special Ella touch.
As a dancer, I watch tempos and this one is packed with mostly uptempo songs great for Lindy Hop and Balboa. This CD should definitely be in your jazz library. However, be warned. If you are looking for Ella to be singing, you'll be disappointed. Buy "Ella and Basie" instead if you are looking for vocals and you'll be happy."
Is it Ella or the orchestra?
Steven | Germany | 10/13/2007
(2 out of 5 stars)
"This cd has a good sound but Ella's voice comes very seldom in a song!"