Ernestine Anderson is what your looking for. She mixes blues-r&b and even a little gospel in her vocals, but is also capable of the "Ella" style when called for. Has about a dozen recordings on Concord Records, audiophile sound without the audiophile $$$.
Need help with Jazz
Hi. I'm a veteran audio nut with a decent bit of kit; mostly Musical Fidelity separates piped through some of Albert Von Schweikert's finest. I have a very eclectic taste in music, but I've never been drawn to Jazz until recently. I'm looking for recommendations for Jazz with good female vocals, and with an "upbeat" tempo: you know, the kind of music that tends to exploit one's awesome components! For example, I've tried Patricia Barber, and she's just a bit too dark. I do enjoy Diana Krall, but I'd like something with more brazen instrumentals. All suggestions welcome! Thanks.