Ethel Ennis & Ernestine Anderson: Four Classic Albums Plus / 2CD set

Baltimore-born Ennis (1932-2019) largely stayed close to home, only occasionally moving into and out of national awareness. Her Sings Lullabies For Losers album, made for Jubilee, shows off her lyric ease and melodic command, placing her among the best of her generation, her sound slightly husky, the dynamics quite perfect. Of course, she has the inestimable assistance of quartet pianist Hank Jones and drummer Kenny Clarke, her phrasing and emphasis occasionally recalling that of Dinah Washington. Capitol’s Change of Scenery from 1957 is similarly impressive, Ennis’ flair for intimacy showcased in Hefti’s skilfully varied, larger-scale arrangements.

Much the same applies to Have You Forgotten?, also from Capitol, the arrangements by Feller opting for a glossier approach with minimal jazz interest, this saved with the addition of four fine tracks featuring Ennis with the crack Benny Goodman big band that toured Europe in 1958.

Anderson (1928-2016) first gained prominence in Seattle and broke through with Lionel Hampton’s band, staying close to jazz musicians throughout her career, this often encompassing European tours. She settled in London briefly in the early 1960s and appeared at Ronnie Scott’s’; it was a privilege to see her decades later in New York in her early 80s, still improvising and soulful too, with star tenorist Houston Person in support.

Capitol’s The Fascinating Ernestine matches her with a glittering array of top jazzmen, the arrangements shared between Wilkins and Gryce, Anderson nicely assertive, momentarily evoking Ella, Golson and Cleveland getting in on the act in ‘Stompin’ At The Savoy’. Commendable music but it’s Ennis who provides the surprises.

https://www.jazzwise.com/review/ethel-ennis-and-ernestine-anderson-four-classic-albums-plus