Ella Fitzgerald
's outstanding songbook series has become an institution unto itself. This 1957 effort is distinguished from
Fitzgerald
's other songbooks in that it is the only album in which the composer whose work she is singing actively participates. In fact, these recordings are packed with some of the key figures in 20th century jazz. As if
Ella
and
Duke
weren't enough,
Ellington
's arranger/composer
Billy Strayhorn
, guest musicians
Dizzy Gillespie
Oscar Peterson
, and brilliant record producer
Norman Granz
all have a hand in the proceedings. And what better backing band could one want than
's orchestra? The usual suspects --
Jimmy Hamilton
,
Johnny Hodges
Paul Gonsalves
Harry Carney
, and
Sam Woodyard
, among others -- contribute fine performances throughout.
's spectacular catalog dazzles, and his sprightly, lush textures are transfigured under
's warm-timbred voice and elegant, precise delivery. Included here are classics like "Rockin' in Rhythm," "Caravan," "Satin Doll," "Sophisticated Lady," "Prelude to a Kiss," and "It Don't Mean a Thing...," each tune as familiar as it is delightful to hear in this new context.