Performance: Jazz Vocalist Ellen Johnson

(Ojai, CA February 12, 2009): Called "superior jazz singing by an artist of the highest quality" by Jazz Journal International, Ellen Johnson, will be sharing her style of jazz vocals on Wednesday, February 18 from 8 PM to 11 PM at the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa (Neff Room) located at 905 Country Club Road in Ojai or contact http://www.ojairesort.com/. Ellen has has three critically acclaimed CD's (These Days, Chinchilla Serenade and Too Good To Title). "These Days", was called "one of the best albums to be heard from a no-nonsense jazz singer" (Frank -John Hadley, DownBeat) and a "sophisticated and successful album that raises the standard of modern jazz singing by at least one notch" (George Harris, All About Jazz).

Ellen has performed and recorded with many exceptional musicians including Charles McPherson, Louie Bellson, Bobby McFerrin, Roy McCurdy, Larry Koonse and jazz icon Sheila Jordan. Her amazing range, unique jazz phrasing, improvisational skills and imaginative vocal style delights audiences at concerts, festivals, colleges, and venues all over the world. Ellen is also a songwriter, lyricist, publisher, educator, creativity coach and is the founder of Sound Visions Media Group which distributes, promotes and produces a roster of jazz artists and publishes educational CDs including "You Sing Jazz" and "Vocal Builders". Ellen received her Master's Degree from San Diego State University and has been on the faculties of California Polytechnic University at Pomona and the University of San Diego among other colleges as well as jazz vocal workshops and private coaching. She can be reached through her website at http://www.ellenjohnson.net or http://www.SoundVisionsMedia.com.

Press: Ellen Johnson "These Days"

Chosen as one of the top three jazz vocalists for 2006 with Diana Krall and Dianne Reeves
-Arnaldo DeSouteiro, Tribuna Bis Rio de Janeiro

"Johnson has released a challenging, sophisticated and successful album that raises the standard of modern jazz singing by at least one notch. While other singers are rehashing the great American songbook, Johnson is putting it through the meat grinder and creating a whole new menu."
-George Harris, All About Jazz

"Ellen Johnson's These Days is one of the best albums to be heard from a no-nonsense jazz singer in the past year; she and her recording are worthy of serious consideration for placement in the 2007 DownBeat Critics Poll."
-Frank-John Hadley, DownBeat

"As "These Days" proceeds the soul of Ellen Johnson emerges, and she leaves no doubt about the wide range of her talents. In addition, the album reminds us of the fresh ideas, impressive technique and passion for the music that Ellen Johnson offers listeners. "These Days" is a true delight. "
-Bill Donaldson, Jazz Improv

"Ellen Johnson's new release "These Days" is a complete breath of fresh air. Johnson who is not afraid to go where no vocalist has gone before presents a CD of taking chances. A standing ovation for Ellen Johnson. Thank you for showing the world of Jazz vocals that there is so much to explore."
-James Rosen, Inside Connection

"I have to comment on the fine instrument Ellen possesses for the jazz idiom in that she sings a repertory of musical interpretation and isn't afraid to associate with adventurous, experimental and contemporary jazz musicians as with the likes of her wonderful bass soloist Darek Oles... All of this filtered through her wondrous voice."
-George W. Carroll, Ejazz News

"This album will please those who can appreciate this unique format for the lady can definitely sing."
-Edward Blanco, Ejazz News

"In the end, "These Days" is not only a moving testament to the personal journey of Ms. Johnson's life, but also an enjoyable introduction to two great singers of depth and spirit: Ellen Johnson and her mentor, Sheila Jordan."
-Brad Walseth, JazzChicago.net

LIVE REVIEW: "... impressive in that, no matter how she stretches the form, she never neglects lyrical content. Her current "These Days" (Vocal Visions Records) signals a mature plateau for a special singer."
- Kirk Silsbee, "Jazz Critic's Choice" - Los Angeles City Beat 2007