Hearing immediate potential in Ellen’s powerfully emotive storytelling and distinctive phrasing, Jason Miles(producer) quickly assembled a Big Apple based ensemble of session greats – including trumpeter Randy Brecker, pianist Robbie Kondor, guitarist Jeff Mironov, bass player Will Lee, Drums Gene Lake, percussionist Richie Morales and B3, Strings and Vibes Jason Miles– to bring spontaneity, soul and grit to Ellen’s natural expressive gifts. From the metaphor filled reflections of the piano and vocal driven focal track “Blue and Green” to the moody, soulful and easy swinging “Let the Fire Grow” (featuring a lush trumpet solo and harmony lines by Randy Brecker), the songs on A New York Session perfectly reflect these more intimate, heart on the sleeve sensibilities. “Blue and Green” touched on her grief of letting go of her kids and her long-held identity as a mom, with acceptance of her new life at the end. “Let the Fire Grow” taps into her desire to unleash her full creativity as an artist and speak her mind boldly. The funk-pop-jazz influenced “Queens Bridge” chronicles a clever conversation with herself, trying to push away her years of the lies of self-criticism and owning her worth. Rounding out the set are the gospel/blues tinged ballad “Love is On My Side” and the infectious samba, soul-jazz gem “Over There,” is a reminder that when confused about which way to go, choose the path with the heart.

Expected release: February 22, 2020