Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
However, what truly distinguishes the group is the vocal stylings of singer Ashley Elise. Ms. Elise is almost completely self-taught. Presenting at age 25 an already unusual command of the jazz repertoire and a powerfully flexible range, Ms. Elise owns that most pleasing of all musical traits, a decidedly individualistic style and a willingness to take interpretive risks, the true hallmark of the dedicated jazz musician...approaches each piece with the contagious confidence of genuine exuberance. It is truly a pleasure to witness Ms. Elise throw her entire body into each song, swaying one minute to the groove, jumping up on tip-toe the next instant as she stretches the limit of her extensive range, only to slide smoothly from this peak into a sensual glissando. As if channeling a strange amalgam of an early Anita O’Day, a late Billie Holiday, and a swinging Ella Fitzgerald, Ms. Elise is a performer whose continued development will certainly be interesting to watch... -Franz A. Matzner, May 2003 - allaboutjazz.com
Discography
Debut album forthcoming in 2006.
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
Ashley Elise brings something quite dynamic and passionate to jazz singing. An artist intent on developing her own voice and concept, her adventurous spirit mesmerizes her audience as they wait to see what she'll do next. Whether we’re sharing a poignant ballad or she’s laying down a swift latin, her voice moves from whisper to powerhouse and back again. A singer contrasting intense rhythmic phrases with long drawn bending tones, she improvises with intelligence and inspiration. Her expansive range reveals many colors and is used much like an instrument.
Whether singing songs you already know or introducing you to her own music: She is a distinctive jazz force taking wing on the spirits of Betty Carter, Dianne Reeves, Barbra Streisand and Ella Fitzgerald.
Visit ashleyelise.com for more BIO.
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