Description
The Manhattan Transfer – Vocalese – Vinyl Record
Released in 1985, Vocalese by The Manhattan Transfer is a masterful exploration of vocal jazz that turned the art of ‘vocalese’ into a full-length, Grammy-winning album. Vocalese is the technique of setting lyrics to instrumental jazz solos, a demanding style requiring exceptional vocal precision and interpretive skill. With Vocalese, The Manhattan Transfer pushed the boundaries of the genre, delivering a technically brilliant and musically thrilling album that remains a hallmark of vocal jazz.
The album was produced by Tim Hauser, one of the group’s founding members, and crafted in collaboration with lyricist Jon Hendricks, a pioneer of vocalese. Many of the tracks are adaptations of iconic jazz instrumentals, featuring lyrics by Hendricks that bring new narrative dimensions to classic solos. The Manhattan Transfer—comprising Tim Hauser, Janis Siegel, Alan Paul, and Cheryl Bentyne—demonstrated extraordinary vocal dexterity, with each member taking on challenging parts of intricate jazz arrangements.
Vocalese pays homage to the greats of jazz, including Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis, while showcasing the group’s ability to translate complex instrumental pieces into vocal masterpieces. The album features a host of celebrated jazz musicians, including saxophonist Richie Cole and trumpeter Jon Faddis, adding authenticity and depth to the arrangements.
The album is a tour de force of vocal jazz, characterized by Impeccable harmonies and tight vocal interplay. Sophisticated lyrics that often mirror the phrasing and emotional intensity of the original instrumental solos. A balance of swing, bebop, and big band influences, creating a vibrant and varied listening experience.
Highlights of the album include:
‘That’s Killer Joe’
Based on Benny Golson’s ‘Killer Joe,’ this track opens the album with a playful groove and witty lyrics that bring the story of Joe to life.
‘Rambo’
Adapted from a composition by Johnny Griffin, this track is a vocal showcase of bebop agility, with complex rhythms and rapid-fire phrasing.
‘Airegin’
A reinterpretation of the Sonny Rollins classic, featuring breathtakingly fast vocal lines and intricate harmonies that mirror the original saxophone solo.
‘Meet Benny Bailey’
A tribute to trumpeter Benny Bailey, this track captures the jubilant energy of the big band era with dazzling vocal precision.
‘Another Night in Tunisia’
A stunning rendition of Dizzy Gillespie’s classic, featuring guest vocals by Jon Hendricks himself and an unforgettable scat solo by Cheryl Bentyne.
‘To You’
A heartfelt ballad originally performed by Count Basie’s orchestra, showcasing the group’s emotive vocal blend and lyrical sensitivity.
‘Birdland’
Perhaps the group’s most famous song, this version of the Weather Report classic had already earned the group a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Fusion Performance in 1981. It’s a cornerstone of their repertoire and is featured here in a fittingly lush and energetic arrangement.
Vocalese was a critical and commercial success, earning an unprecedented 12 Grammy nominations—the most ever received by a vocal group at the time—and winning two: Best Jazz Vocal Performance, Duo or Group for ‘Another Night in Tunisia’ and Best Arrangement for Voices for ‘Killer Joe.’ The album was praised for its technical brilliance, creativity, and deep respect for the jazz tradition.
The Manhattan Transfer’s ability to transform virtuosic instrumental solos into equally impressive vocal performances drew widespread acclaim. Jazz enthusiasts appreciated the authenticity and artistry of the interpretations, while broader audiences were captivated by the group’s accessibility and charm.
Vocalese is considered a landmark in vocal jazz and a definitive work in The Manhattan Transfer’s discography. It solidified their reputation as one of the most innovative and accomplished vocal groups of their time. The album not only honored the legacy of jazz greats but also brought vocalese to a wider audience, inspiring a renewed interest in the style.
Decades later, Vocalese remains a celebrated achievement, revered for its daring creativity, technical excellence, and heartfelt homage to the jazz tradition. It’s an essential listen for anyone exploring the intersection of vocal and instrumental jazz or the enduring artistry of The Manhattan Transfer.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Track Listing
That’s Killer Joe
Rambo
Airegin
To You
(You Should) Meet Benny Bailey
Another Night In Tunisia
Ray’s Rockhouse
Blee Blop Blues
Oh Yes, I Remember Clifford
Sing Joy Spring
Move
