Brassy Jazz Vocalist Releases Debut CD

After years of working and touring as lead soprano in some top notch vocal jazz groups, Ellen Winters is ready to roll out her debut album, titled “Pure Imagination,” the first release from Chicago-based jazz label 251 Records. With the help of Chicago and Michigan-based jazz musicians Rob Cookman, Shawn Sommer, Vance Okraszewski, recording engineer Jeremy Fox and producer Christopher Cole, “Pure Imagination” was recorded in Chicago in only two days in July of 2002.  Raised in Milwaukee, Winters returned home in 2000 and shortly afterwards started making a name for herself on the local jazz scene. She is a regular at Caroline’s Jazz Club and is often found singing with the Paul Spencer Band, Dick Eliot, Swing Nouveau, and several other top notch groups and trios.  

An accomplished jazz and cabaret singer, Winters brings new life to many classic jazz standards like “My Funny Valentine,” “They All Laughed,” and “This Nearly Was Mine” while infusing some newer tunes including Billy Joel’s “(S) He’s Got A Way” and Frank Wildhorn’s “Little Things” as well as one original tune.  The eclectic mix of ballads, Latin, funk, and up-tempo swing makes this CD “…definitely one for the collection!” according to San Francisco producer Phil Schroeder, who offers liner notes on the cd.  

Also offering a glowing review is local jazz club owner Caroline Rubitsky of Caroline’s Jazz Club (401 S 2^nd Street, Milwaukee.)  The local club owner is opening the doors to the club on Sunday, November 9^th from 3-7pm for Winters’ CD release party.  Because touring conflicts will prevent the recording musicians from attending, local drummer Andy LoDuca, bassist John Dominguez, and 2003 WAMI award winning keyboard player Dean Lea will back Winters on November 9^th.