With myspace and youtube constantly forcing trendy new music into our ears like Shoreditch Q-Tips, it is so easy to forget about the classic songs of days gone by.

While the above statement makes me sound like a) someone's dad and b) a twat, there is truth in it. This is why 'Forever Ella' - despite being a compliation containing many tracks recorded nearly 50 years ago – is actually incredibly refreshing to listen to.

This album is a collection of Ella Fitzgerald's most well-known and best-loved songs designed to act as a “perfect introduction” to the singer's body of work in order to celebrate what would have been her 90th birthday (25th April). The selection is excellent – obvious greats like the Cole Porter-penned 'I Get A Kick Out Of You' and 'Let's Face The Music And Dance' are included, along with some great new versions and remixes. Layo & Bushwacka's dreamy, echo-riddled take on 'Angel Eyes' at the very end of the album stands out particularly, as does the brand new version of 'Cry Me A River' recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra.

'Forever Ella' is more than just a “perfect introduction” to Ella Fitzgerald's beautiful voice and brilliant music, it is quite simply a great collection of timeless songs.

Rating: 4/5
Label: UCJ Music
Words: Tom Ellen