Elegantly spicy jazz vocalist Ellen Robinson brings her classy quartet to the Freight for an evening of swinging, sparkling vocals with a repertoire full of surprises. Ellen and her band joyfully navigate up-tempo swing, the hushed intensity of ballads, and Ellen's rhyhmically quirky originals with their catchy melodies.

Ellen learned piano during her east coast youth, later performing as a singer-songwriter in New York City folk clubs. Since moving to California, she has collaborated as a vocalist with the area's most talented musicians including pianist Murray Low, reed player Harvey Wainapel, and drummer Bud Spangler.

Ellen's live performances shine with her impeccable timing, clever phrasing, storytelling expertise, and colorful genre palette. Says jazz radio station KCSM's Melanie Berzon, "the urgency with which she delivers each tune is palpable. Her enthusiasm and love of the music is infectious."

Ellen captures these passionate one-of-a-kind performances on her second CD Mercy! Ellen Robinson Live (2006).

Ellen has been teaching singers and directing vocal groups for over 30 years, including founding and directing the Anything Goes Choruses and teaching at the Jazzschool.

Tonight Ellen is backed by the capable talents of Murray Low (piano), Sam Bevan (bass), Dan Foltz (drums), and Kristen Strom (sax).

Visit Ellen's website

Listen to a track from Ellen Robinson: