Ella in London

AMG Review of Ella in London

Scott Yanow
All Music Guide

This is one of Ella Fitzgerald's most enjoyable recordings from her later years. With pianist Tommy Flanagan, guitarist Joe Pass, bassist Keter Betts, and drummer Bobby Durham serving as a backup group (not a bad band), she swings everything from "Sweet Georgia Brown" and "It Don't Mean a Thing" to "Lemon Drop" and even Carole King's "You've Got a Friend." Her allad interpretations are only topped by her scatting talents. This set serves as a perfect introduction to the mature Ella Fitzgerald.