If you’ve never experienced Ella Fitzgerald, it is surprisingly this holiday recording, Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas, that could well serve as an introduction to her incredible voice and interpretive powers.  She puts a fresh, hip and swingin’ twist on a collection of often overplayed holiday classics.  “Jingle Bells” has an infectious pace that sets the tone for the rest of the album: the mood is lighthearted and easygoing, without slowing to a dirge.  Casual horns flavor up “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” while a hip little vocal section spices up “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town.”  Frank DeVol handles the musical side of the proceedings.  The only tune that is out of place is “Good Morning Blues,” a bit “out there” among the other holiday selections on the disc.  (Something for Ella’s more fervent fans, but not for casual listeners.)  A solid album otherwise from start to finish, something that can be enjoyed even by non-jazz music lovers.