AMG Review of Early Years, Pt. 2

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

GRP on this two-CD set reissues 42 of the 69 recordings that Ella Fitzgerald cut during a two-and-one-half-year period. Not as valuable as the European Classics "complete" series, this set does give one a good introduction to the classic singer's music during a time when she led Chick Webb's Orchestra after the drummer's death. Highlights include "Undecided," "Don't Worry About Me," "Stairway to the Stars," "Taking a Chance on Love," "The One I Love" and "Can't Help Lovin' Dat Man"; the medium-tempo novelties are less significant. It is recommended to the more casual collector.