Dream Dancing: Ella Fitzgerald & Cole Porter CD

Digitally remastered by Joe Tarantino (1987, Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, California).

Ella Fitzgerald sings the music of Cole Porter on the anniversary of his death (1972). Two songs that were recorded later were added to the original LP release.

Recorded in 1972, on the 10-year anniversary of Cole Porter's death, DREAM DANCING is a tender, warm-hearted, and vibrant tribute to possibly the greatest songwriter ever. As such, one might expect an elegiac feel to this session, but nothing could be further from the truth. Porter's songs were all about sparkling wit and sly impudence, and Fitzgerald invests these 15 tracks with plenty of both.

From standards like "Anything Goes" and "I've Got You Under My Skin" to lesser-known gems like the title track and "Down in the Depths," the song choices are magnificent. Fitzgerald is in wonderful voice, and the arrangements by Nelson Riddle, played by his orchestra, are simply sublime. Whether you're a fan of Fitzgerald, Riddle, or Porter--if not all three--this album is simply essential.

2nd Coll.Of Cole Porter Songs; 1978;W/Nelson Riddle

Recorded at Group IV Studios, Hollywood, June 9, 1972 and February 13, 1978. Includes original liner notes by Norman Granz.

Personnel: Ella Fitzgerald (vocals); Nelson Riddle (conductor); Al Aarons, Carroll Lewis, Shorty Sherock, Charles Turner (trumpet); J.J. Johnson, Dick Noel, Bill Watrous (trombone); Christopher Riddle (bass trombone); Don Christlieb, Bobby Tricarico (bassoon); Mahlon Clark, Bill Green (clarinet); Norman Benno, Gordon Shoneberg (oboe); Harry Klee, Wilbur Schwartz (flute); Paul Smith (piano); Ralph Grasso (guitar); John Heard (bass); Louie Bellson (drums).