The Best of The Manhattan Transfer cover

The Best of The Manhattan Transfer

The Manhattan Transfer · 1981

46 min · 13 tracks · blues

A vibrant fusion of jazz, a cappella harmonies, and pop sensibilities that celebrates the rich tapestry of American musical styles.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Tuxedo Junction — This track highlights the group's harmonious blend of jazz orchestration and a cappella vocals, serving as a perfect introduction to their sound.
  • →
    Birdland — A standout piece, it showcases the group's ability to transform complex jazz compositions into accessible pop songs while maintaining artistic integrity.
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    Boy From New York City — This track encapsulates the playful essence of New York with its upbeat tempo and catchy hook, exemplifying the group's knack for storytelling through music.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • playful sing-alongs with friends
  • nostalgic vibes for gatherings
  • short bursts of joy
  • dynamic shifts in energy
  • for upbeat afternoons

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking deep, introspective listening
  • prefer longer immersive experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'The Best of The Manhattan Transfer' was released in 1981, the group had already established themselves with their unique blend of vocal jazz and pop. This compilation came shortly after their breakthrough album 'Mecca for Moderns' (1975) and multiple Grammy wins, solidifying their status in the music industry.
Stylistic neighbors
The Swingle Singers· Pentatonix· Vocalosity

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Tuxedo Junction 3:07
  • 2 Boy From New York City 3:40
  • 3 Twilight Zone / Twilight Tone 3:56
  • 4 Body and Soul 4:27
  • 5 Candy 3:27
  • 6 Four Brothers 3:49
  • 7 Birdland 5:59
  • 8 Gloria 2:58
  • 9 Trickle Trickle 2:21
  • 10 Operator 3:12
  • 11 Java Jive 2:46
  • 12 A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square 3:47
  • 13 Chanson d'amour 2:55

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata