ELLI FORDYCE: Something STILL Cool with Jim Malloy

Elli Fordyce

Something STILL Cool with Jim Malloy

© 2008 Elli Fordyce (634479592515) (format: CD-R)

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Jazz vocalist Elli Fordyce takes a new approach to standards and some seldom heard gems with her feeling-filled, swinging interpretations. Including some charming duets with Jim Malloy, the CD consists of thoughtful renditions of 13 songs. As Chris Specto

notes

Originally from Manhattan, Elli Fordyce is a highly accomplished vocalist and actor. She has performed all over the NY-Metro area, including an appearance at the Town Hall Cabaret Convention. Elli also has numerous film, TV, and live theatre credits to her name, including "September 12th," "Chappelle's Show" and "Guys & Dolls."

Prior to returning to NY 28 years ago, Elli took some breaks in her musical career. One break was to devote herself to raising a family; another was after a devastating accident on a snowy highway en route to a gig when the car carrying the band and equipment crashed into a disabled truck. A successful year-long "Elli Fordyce And Her Favorite Things" tour ended abruptly, leaving scars of many kinds. Elli stopped singing for 15 years ("not even 'Happy Birthday,' not even in the shower") and focused firmly on much needed physical and spiritual healing.

But Elli's musical journey was not over. A tiny ginger-colored Yorkie pup named Dindi (meaning "little jewel" in Portuguese, as well as the title of Elli's favorite Jobim bossa nova) got her singing again. Dindi loved Elli's singing the namesake song to the puppy. Inspiration renewed, Elli joined a cabaret workshop taught by brilliant MAC-Award-winning artist Lina Koutrakos. Soon after, she came under the tutelage of renowned jazz pianist/educator Barry Harris. Elli credits Barry with putting her squarely back on the path she was meant to follow and making a comeback inevitable.

And come back she has! Her new CD, "Something STILL Cool," has become an overnight sensation with rave reviews:

"Whatever the term [cool] means ... you know it when you hear it. And Elli Fordyce is cool! ... as implied in the title, once cool, always cool, vintage cool ... Ms. Fordyce has the spirit and voice of one of the blessed, the spirit and stamina of eternal song." (Bob Gish, Jazz Improv-NY).

"Fordyce's voice is lovely with strong command, a natural rhythmic touch and just a touch of a rough edge ... scatting with aplomb, she also shows a knack for the south of the border sound .. a true showcase for a singer whom one wishes would have never had to give up singing for so long ... better late than never ... heartfelt version of "Something Cool" .. great choice for lovers of vocal jazz standards ... doesn't sing by rote, and her vocal ideas are full of imagination and personality, but neither does she detract from the beauty of the melody ... it is clear that Elli Fordyce knows ... the real meaning of 'cool.'" (Brad Walseth, www.jazzchicago.net)

"I am enjoying your music so much! Your CD was a great surprise for me. I always [love] discovering great talent for our audience ... Our audience is very lucky to have your new tracks for their enjoyment at www.radioIO.com." (drmike)

And, quoting Elli, at 71, "It's never too late!"

reviews

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  • Something Still Cool
    author: Cyd

    Loved it. So cool and "so hot". I'll put my Diana Krall CDs away. Bring it on...

  • Something Still Cool
    author: joyce

    Coolest

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