This mournful arrangement of the Thelonius Monk ballad, 'Round Midnight' starts with a rubato intertwining intro, then spotlights tense cluster voicings supporting a female soloist throughout. With imaginative reharmonizations, yet good voice leading, this chart is extremely effective and accessible. 'If You Wanna Fly' is an Al Jarreau-style showcase for a strong tenor-baritone soloist. This up-tempo samba features hot choral backgrounds throughout doing horn section licks, an a cappella vocal/percussion break in the middle and some quick unison passages with choir and soloist. 'Not Like This' is another exquisite ballad made popular by Al Jarreau. Contemporary harmonies and recorded by Voice Trek for their CD 'At Last.' Written by Bobby McFerrin and featured on his first album, 'Jubilee' is full of energy and fun. This arrangement is a cappella, with the bass singer doing an instrumental-like bass line throughout. It begins as a samba, goes to swing for a vocal improvisation solo and an ensemble 'soli' section, then back to the samba. The recording by Phil Mattson and the P.M. Singers (Jubilee album) features vocal percussion throughout, emulating a true drum part. If you have an experienced group and you're looking for a showcase piece to feature a talented bass singer and vocal percussionist, this arrangement is for you! |