Vocalese
The Manhattan Transfer · 1985
45 min · 11 tracks · blues · jazz · gospel
A vibrant fusion of jazz harmonies and intricate vocal arrangements that reimagines classic tunes.
Why this album works
'Vocalese' received critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Performance, highlighting its innovative approach to vocal arrangements. The album's unique style influenced subsequent vocal jazz ensembles and reinforced The Manhattan Transfer's role as pioneers in vocalese, a technique blending lyrics with instrumental jazz solos.
- Best for
- dynamic emotional journeys vibrant, engaging vocal harmonies gradual builds and payoffs
- Context
- By 1985, The Manhattan Transfer had already established themselves as a prominent vocal group, following their Grammy-winning album 'Bodies and Soul' in 1983. 'Vocalese' marked their fifth studio album and showcased their continued evolution in blending jazz with pop sensibilities, further solidifying their reputation in the music industry.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Bob Dylan· Ray Charles· Nina Simone
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 That’s Killer Joe Standout 5:03
- 2 Rambo 3:21
- 3 Airegin 3:21
- 4 To You 3:54
- 5 Meet Benny Bailey 3:32
- 6 Another Night in Tunisia Standout 4:14
- 7 Ray’s Rockhouse 5:07
- 8 Blee Blop Blues 3:05
- 9 Oh Yes, I Remember Clifford Standout 3:49
- 10 Sing Joy Spring 7:11
- 11 Move 2:50
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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