I need a female jazz vocalist. No Krall, No Norah

Ella by a wide margin, simply the best: perfect diction, impeccable timing, subtle "bending' of tunes; purity of timber, great swing, ... I could go on ...and on. Next on my list would be Billie followed by Sarah (Sarah had great range and style but I prefer the more direct style of Ella). In terms of the present cast of singers, I like: the sultry Cassandra Wilson; Shirley Horn; Reeves; Krall (earlier albums only, "When I look in your eyes" and "Loves Scenes"); Jacintha (has a nice voice but is a little cool)

Well it is not so jazzy, however if you have not heard Animal Logic than it is highly suggested. This album features Stanley Clark and Stewart Copland.

Has anyone mentioned Ute Lemper "Crimes Of The Heart" or the Anita Baker discs?

Meech33,

Another suggestion for you: Jane Monheit "Never Never Land" & "Come Dream With Me".

FWIW.

I like Shirley Horn and Patricia Barber.