Ernestine Anderson - Ernestine Anderson (1958)

This CD brings back singer Ernestine Anderson's first full-length U.S. recording session. The program only clocks in at 31 1/2 minutes and some of the performances are remarkably brief (including a 59-second version of "There Will Never Be Another You"). Backed by an orchestra arranged by Pete Rugolo, Anderson (who was at the time influenced by Dinah Washington) is in good voice and swings without getting very far from the melodies. The highlights are "Stardust," "Social Call," "A Sleepin' Bee" and particularly a touching "My Ship." Although this brief program should have been combined with another Mercury release for this reissue, the music should please Ernestine Anderson's fans.