Manhattan Transfer

Vocalese

A DECADE LATER I STILL REMEMBER EVERY NOTE ! ! !

Review Score:

(10/10)
This is an incredible album. I could swear it came out earlier than 87, because I remember being at Bodine HS in Philly. I remember going down to the old THIRD STREET JAZZ to buy it in Vinyl. Was 87 ALL that long ago ? -- And besides, a CLASSIC Jazz album done in the '80s ? Well, this one belongs in any true Jazz affecianado's library. - - Here's why got the album... I was a huge Eddie Jefferson fan. Eddie Jefferson was the Godfather of Vocalese -- the art of ascribing lyrics to often humorous high speed heavy swinging bebop solos, which is what this album was about... I heard cuts on our now half defunct Jazz radio station and ran out and got it. Each and every song on the album made an impression on me and made me want to go out and hunt down the instrumental versions, so the impact of the album carried on for years... To that extent I think this album is not only great for straight ahead Jazz (as well as TRANSFER fans) but it would be a great gift to any friends you have who are just getting into Jazz, even children who might be dazzled by the TRANSFER's vocal acrobatics or for those unfortunate who actually think Kenny G is a gifted "Jazz" soloist (ROFL). - If I'm not mistaken this was also the album that introduced Bobby McFerrin to the public at large via his brilliant performance of NIGHT IN TUNISIA. - - I also remember many great musicians (who would pass within a few years) also doing cameos on the album. - - Anyway, listen to the samples, then get this album, but dont forget to listen to the people who it paid tribute too as well. LAMBERT HENDRIX AND ROSS, KING PLEASURE and EDDIE JEFFERSON especially - - also check out the MARK MURPHY anthology.

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