Vocal Jazz Group Recordings

UNC Vocal Jazz Ensembles : Hot XIII: It Ain't Necessarily So

Review: The University of Northern Colorado is one of the most well respected educational centers for vocal jazz studies thanks to the efforts of Gene Aitken, the director of the program since 1976. You will not believe that these are all "students" for their singing is so good and the arrangements so sophisticated it doesn't seem possible, even though it is true. The bulk of the album, 14 of the 17 tracks, is sung by Et Cetera a mixed sextet. Though jazz predominates with such selections as "For The One I Love" and "As Rain" by Anders Edenroth of the Real Group or "One More Time Chuck Corea" by Gene Puerling, there is a strong rock 'n roll presence. The final three tunes were recorded live by a larger jazz chorus, Vocal Jazz I. Discover this one! It's a sleeper.

Songlist: It Ain't Necessarily So, Episode: Prelude, For The One I Love, Every Breath You Take, Kiss From A Rose, Kite, Out Of Town, Shambala, Gone With The Wind, I'll Be There For You, As Rain, Won't You Be My Neighbor, One More Time Chuck Corea, Unchained Melody, Vocal Jazz I, Brasilia, Move On Over, Harvest

Various Artists : Amazing Voice 2007

Review: If you love a cappella vocal jazz then this CD is for you. These four groups from four countries are certainly some of the top vocal groups performing today and this compilation features some of their best songs. The Real Group (Sweden), Idea of North (Australia), M-Pact (US) and Rajaton (Finland) are highly regarded by aficionados and this recording is a great introduction to the genre.

Songlist: Amazing Voice Song, A Cappella in Acapulco, Singin' A Cappella, Fantasy, Butterfly, Words, Almost Like Being in Love, The Wild Song, Thou Shalt, You Need to Know, A Life for Me, Salty Water, Isn't She Lovely

Velvet Voices : Essence

Review: Founded in 2002, all-women Dutch Vocal Jazz quartet Velvet Voices has been appearing in some serious European and international events, like the 2003 Voice Mania in Vienna, the Jeunesse-the largest German a cappella festival in Munich), and they won the Jazz Gold at the international "Ward Swingle Awards." There are 11 finely-crafted tunes on "Essence," the group's 5th excellent album, some wonderful covers like Lennon/McCartney's "Come Together," Duke Ellington's "Don't Get Around Much Anymore," Cy Coleman's "With every breath I take," Freddie Mercury's "You take my breath away," Brown, Sutton and Brody's "Stop," a fine faux trumpet solo on Harold Arlen's "Somewhere over the rainbow," Jones and Wilder's "A child is born," and Paul Jabara and Paul Shaffer's "It's raining man." There's also a pair of very nice originals by group member Gerda, the moody "Try to remember" and "Quarter to five," and one original by group member Monika, the title tune. Each of these beautiful young women can easily sing perfect solos and leads, so even a difficult, dissonant piece like "A child is born" comes off as effortless, and the harmonies are clean, sharp and on perfect pitch. Even a powerful rocker like "It's raining man," which is reprised as a surprise bonus cut with amped-up vocal percussion, is cleanly nailed both times with no sweat. The voices here are so perfect, the sound so effortlessly clean, we had to listen to it again just to fully appreciate it. "Essence" is a gift for the ears by the Velvet Voices, who have, in a very short time, risen to a level attained by only a few elite Vocal Jazz groups, like the Real Group, Vox One and the Swingle Singers. Treat yourself to one of the best of the year!

Songlist: Come Together, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, With Every Breath I Take, Try to Remember, Quarter to Five, You Take my Breath Away, Stop, Somewhere over the Rainbow, A Child is Born, Essence, It's Raining Men, Surprise

Vocalogy : Distilled

Review: Arising from an artist-in-residency program under Grammy-nominee Phil Mattson, who recorded their debut CD with them, "Is God a Three-Letter Word for Love?," and now self-directed, "Distilled" is Vocalogy's 3rd excellent CD. "Distilled" is an all jazz-band accompanied collection of 13 jazz standards and originals, some favorites: Charles Mingus/Joni Mitchell's tongue-in-cheek "Dry Cleaner from Des Moines," smoky-jazz arrangements of Lennon/McCartney's "Oh Darlin'," and Leonard Bernstein's "Some Other Time," a latin treatment of "Just Friends," two Jimmy Van Heusen classics, "It Could Happen to You" and "I Thought About You," Rachmaninoff's "Piano Concerto #2" turned into a bluenote lament, a sassy, upbeat "Groove Merchant," a stark arrangement of Paul Simon's "Old Friends," and, despite our interest in the local Giants, David Frishberg's "Dodger Blue." As we've noticed in a number of cases, Phil Mattson's musical progeny are unfailingly outstanding, and vocally, all accompaniment aside, Vocalogy is right up there with the best in jazz!

Songlist: Dry Cleaner From Des Moines, Black Orpheus, Oh Darlin', Nutville, Some Other Time, Just Friends, It Could Happen To You, I Thought About You, Theme From Piano Concerto #2, Groove Merchant, Old Friends, Time Is A Healer, Dodger Blue

Vocation : Vocation

Review: Three men, three women sextet Vocation was formed in 1999 at the Royal College of Music in Stockholm, Sweden,and were helped by conductor Lone Larsen in shaping their unique sound. Reviewers have compared them to a heady list - the Real Group, Take 6, Manhattan Transfer and the New York Voices. Playing regularily on Swedish radio and TV, Vocation won "Choice of the Audience Award" at the International Vocal Group Fest in Tilburg, Holland in 2002. Eleven songs, a few accompanied by jazz band, eight in English: Duke Ellington's "It Don't Mean a Thing," "Without a Song," Johnny Mercer's "I Remember You" and "Come Rain or Come Shine," "Gee Baby ain't I Good to You?," plus the a cappella "Almost Like Being in Love," "Not Like This" and "Nature Boy." There's also three very nice pieces in Swedish, particularly "Nar Charlie ar fudd," with music by Hoagy Carmichael, we would guess that "Charlie" refers to jazz great Charlie Parker. The sound is bright and hot, the English flawless, and Vocation swims easily in the company of MT, NY Voices, Real Group and other big fishes in the vocal jazz school. A very impressive and enjoyable debut CD!

Songlist: It Don't Mean a Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing), Without A Song, Regnets sang, Nar Charlie ar todd, I Remember You, Gee Baby Ain't I Good To You, Almost Like Being In Love, Imorron, Hot Like This, Nature Boy, Come Rain of Come Shine

Voice Trek : An A Cappella Trek

Review: St. Paul, MN-based 3-woman, 2-man jazz quintet Voice Trek has a rich, clean, poised sound, and arrangements that can turn very familiar tunes like the Beatles' "Ticket to Ride," Dave Brubeck's jazz anthem "Take Five," Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" and Michel LeGrand's "Windmills of Your Mind" and turn them into new songs, unexpectedly tasty musical treats. There's a spirited, sassy cover of Rossini's "William Tell Overture" that would have the Swingles looking over their shoulders, Sinatra's "Fly Me To The Moon" becomes a (lightly accompanied) scattish, salsa romp, and Toto's "Rosanna" is a finger-snapping winner, as is Brazilian composer Manfredo Fest's energetic "That's What She Says." A bonus track, "America the Beautiful," was included "after the tremendous response from the a cappella community when they performed it at the West Coast Summit!" 11 songs, each a many-faceted gem. "An A cappella Trek," Voice Trek's 5th recording, is a joy from beginning to end, one of the best Vocal Jazz CDs we've heard this year!

Songlist: That's What She Says, Ticket To Ride, Take Five, Both Sides Now, The William Tell Overture, A Little Luck, Fly Me to the Moon, The Windmills of Your Mind, Rosanna, America, The Beautiful

Voice Trek : At Last!

Review: Voice Trek established their reputation as one of the premiere vocal groups through the release of three seasonal albums (Christmas). For years they have been implored by fans to record a jazz record to which their lush harmonies are so suited. Thus, after 10 years of singing together, they recorded At Last. Three sisters, Shelley, Vicki, and Rae, are complemented by tenor Denis Alaire, and baritone Howard Hilde in this primarily accompanied selection of 9 songs which are each long enough for thorough expression.Though accompaniment includes a piano/bass/drum combo and midi, rich vocals toward the easy listening end of the jazz spectrum are substance of this recording.

Songlist: Yesterdays, Nina, Jamaica Farewell, Not Like This, La Fiesta, Mickey's Diner, You're Everything, Peace, At Last

Voice Trek : Celestial Voices of Harmony

Review:

Songlist: To Be Sung Of A Summer Night On The Water, The Lords Prayer, Cavatina, Adoro Te Devote, An Angels Song, Sanctus, For The Beauty Of The Earth, Gymnopedie, Ubi Caritus, Clair De Lune, The Lord Bless You And Keep You

Voice Trek : Celestial Voices of Peace

Review: Twenty-strong, mixed-voice RSVP was founded in 2000 by Artistic Director Julie Adams, with the purpose of bringing people together through the arts and giving back to the community. They have presented uplifting and powerful live performances, donating all proceeds to to 15 local charities. RSVP's concerts have supported programs for the elderly, the abused, the neglected, the hungry, the poor, the illiterate and the homeless. We like the chosen purpose of this talented ensemble, and we love their music!

Songlist: The Swan, Ave Maria, Agnus Dei, In Paradisum, All Things Bright And Beautiful, Reverie, Pange Lingua (Chant), Tantum Ergo, Panis Angelicus, Beati Quorum Via, Pavane, Gaelic Blessing (Deep Peace)

VoicesIowa : Here's To Life!

Review: The bouyant sound of the Voices Iowa, conducted and arranged by Phil Mattson, certainly one of the most prominent jazz educators in the field. Emanating from the same general neighborhood as the Singers Unlimited or Real Group, Voices Iowa actually covers one Real Group arrangement on this CD-"Sa Skimrande Var Aldrig Havet"-as well as Take 6's "Gold Mine," so they certainly set a high standard for themselves. "Blues In the Night" is smoky and seductive, "Satchmo" a picaresque tribute to Louis Armstrong that sets lyrics to a Joplin rag. "If I Loved You" is is an economical a cappella version that shows why Phil Mattson is so respected-every note is important, neither too many or too few. Five of the songs are accompanied.

Songlist: Here's To Life, Almighty God/Heaven, Gold Mine, Corcavado, Blues In The Night, If I Loved You, Satchmo, I Remember Clifford, Sa Skimrande Var Aldrig Havet

VoicesIowa : How Do You Keep the Music Playing

Review: Protogees of Phil Mattson, Voices Iowa are students at the prestigious School For Music Vocations/Southwestern Community College. Under such tutelage, one recognizes a burgeoning talent that will be the vocal jazz sound of tomorrow. Indeed, Bobby McFerrin's "Jubilee" is an athletic workout requiring stamina and fortitude, while, on the opposite end of the spectrum, "Body and Soul" demands an equal measure of control and abandon (the latter a Grammy nominated arrangement originally written for the Manhattan Transfer, and complimented by Richie Cole's saxophone). Cole Porter's "Love For Sale" (a cappella) is anchored by a finger-snapping rhythm and connected by walking bass notes, and finishes with an aexhilarating vocal glissando, a veritable firecracker.

Songlist: Since All is Passing, I Hear Music, How Do You Keep The Music Playing, Jubilee, Body And Soul, Yag Vet In Delig Rosa, Love For Sale, Embraceable You, Yours In My Heart Alone, Dancing In The Dark, Bons Amigos, That Lonesome Road

VoicesIowa : Without A Song - Tribute To Hoagy Carmichael

Review: Renowned jazz educator Phil Mattson's sure touch is everywhere on "Without A Song;" all the arrangements are his, and he produces and plays light piano on the CD (bass and drums are also included on some cuts). Mattson protegees VoicesIowa, students or alumni of prestigious Southwestern Community College's School for Music Vocations (4 men, 2 women) have a bright, effortless sound that invites comparison with the Real Group and The Idea of North. Technically there are just 5 cuts on the CD, but on the first cut, for instance, a sleepy "Without A Song," segues into a scattish "The Song Is You," continues with a sweetly jazzy "You Are The Sunshine of My Life before returning to an upbeat "Without A Song" refrain; and cut 4, "A Hoagy Carmichael Tribute," includes the lightly accompanied "The Nearness of You," "Heart and Soul," "I Get Along Without You Very Well," "Georgia On My Mind," "Ole Buttermilk Sky," "Stardust," "Lazybones," "Two Sleepy People," "Skylark" and "Lazy River." Two a cappella tunes, "Alfie" and the final cut , "Over the Rainbow" are particularly nice. Mattson doesn't waste a note, and VoicesIowa is an apt, finely-tuned instrument for his genius.

Songlist: Without A Song, The Song Is You, You Are the Sunshine of My Life, Alfie, Just The Way You Are, The Nearness of You, Heart and Soul, I Get Along Without You Very Well, Georgia On My Mind, Ole' Buttermilk Sky, Stardust, Lazybones, Two Sleepy People, Skylark, Lazy River, Over The Rainbow

VoicesIowa : You Must Believe in Spring

Review: The Southwestern Community College has a tradition of turning out excellent harmony singers, under the direction of the highly-respected director Phil Mattson. The six-piece mixed "Voices Iowa" is a fine example. "Pick Yourself Up" is a dizzying rendition of the Kern/Fields classic, a daring flight into the upper registers. Bach's "Largo" yields willingly to a fine scat treatment; "Come Sunday" has the same heartbreakingly beautiful arrangement as that of the Real Group, but the tone qualities of the voices are quite distinct to Voices Iowa. "What A Wonderful World" comes alive, the notes a joyous burst of sunshine on a spring morning.

Songlist: What A Wonderful World, Pick Yourself Up, Largo, Revoici Venir Du Printemps, Come Sunday, Lo How A Rose E're Blooming, Love is Here to Stay, Music For Lovers, More I Cannot Wish You, And So It Goes, Look for the Silver Lining, You Must Believe in Spring

Vox One : Chameleon

Review: This may well be the last album of jazz virtuosos, Vox One." These musicians created the most polished jazz (on the rock and blues edge of the spectrum) by anyone so far. Meticulous arrangements sung by superb performers make you forget any prior arrangement that was the benchmark to your mind's ear for how a particular song was supposed to sound. From the opening wail of the vocal electric guitar and definitive drum beat on "Chameleon" to the complex chord structures on "Round Midnight," you will be lost in a panoply of possibilities for the human voice. John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Harold Arlen, Herbie Hancock, Theolonius Monk and more are treated with nothing short of the genius they deserve. The title cut from one of our best selling CD's ever, "Chameleon," is a cool and refreshing cocktail of vocal jazz. Having emerged from the highly regarded Berklee School of Music, their sound reflects the talent and training that enables them to articulate sophisticated musical concepts with ease. This amazingly rich sonic tapestry is heard in the bent notes of the "guitar" and the slur of the "bass" on this track-amazing!

Songlist: Chameleon, Naima (My Dreams), Moonglow, All Blues, Danny Boy, On Green Dolphin Street, You Don't Know What Love Is, Over the Rainbow, Teen Town, 'Round Midnight

Vox One : Out There

Review: In announcing the CARA winners for 1996, the Contemporary A Cappella Newsletter used the following statement to announce the Album Of The Year. "In a year of extremely strong nominees for best album, Vox One's little-publicized "Out There" takes first place because it has everything. Exceptional songwriting, glowing arrangements, magnificent solo performances and top rate production all combine to make this the sleeper album of 1995. Somehow Vox One manages to combine elements of pop, rock, blues and jazz without compromising the exacting demands of any of the styles. The resulting blend is infectious and definitive, proving "Out There" to be one of the best contemporary albums ever." We couldn't have said it better ourselves.

Songlist: Searching For You, Whisper When I Speak, The Eyes Of A Jungle, Gone By, Save Me, The Sky Is Crying, Say You'll Always Be, That Which You Love, Morning, Out There

Vox One : Pure Imagination

Review: What immediately strikes one upon listening to Vox One's new "Pure Imagination" CD is how good they are not in a flashy, notice we are brilliant singers kind of way, but in a deeply felt, technically beyond question, born to sing way that shows us all of us lesser talents how its done. After seven years, one of a cappella's most accomplished (and recognized) vocal jazz groups returns to the CD player with a satisfying collection of originals, covers and improvs. Yes, Vox One has matured and is exploring new styles, including Indian ragas and world music tinged vocal jams. For those loyal listeners who loved "Chameleon," "Out There" and "Say You Love Me" and have been waiting for an encore, there are the standards such as "Pure Imagination" (written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley), and the traditional "Aura Lee," but there are plenty of new songs composed by the group, as well as the six improvised tracks that offer plenty of room for the the five members (Yumiko Matsuoka, Paul Pampinella, Paul Stiller, Jodi Jenkins Ainsworth and Tom Baskett) to stake out new vocal territory. These Berklee College of Music faculty members exemplify what it is to harmonize, blend and intonate with sublime perfection, and we thank them!

Songlist: Pure Imagination, Kind of a 3Paul Stiller, Improv 1, Simple Gifts, Improv 2, Try, Take Me Out To The Ballgame, Improv 3, Woodstock, Leave It To Me, Improv 4, Aura Lee, Improv 5, I Wish, You Know

Vox One : Say You Love Me

Review: This Japanese release features seven songs not before released in the U.S.. For fans of Vox One, we are already preaching to the choir, but for the uninitiated, this contemporary jazz quintet has all of the technique of the Real Group, with a compelling edge of intensity and emotion. Therefore, a traditional such as "Shenandoah," using brilliant dynamics, phrasing and an admirable combination of tension and release, is transcendent, whereas classic pop - Carol King's "It's Too Late" - is given a heartbreaking harmonic complexity and richness. The arpeggiated chord accompaniment in the verse, so simple, yet effective, shows why a talented arranger can elevate the ordinary to greatness. When Vox One swings into the standard, "Autumn Leaves," they prove that they do no less than weave straw into gold.

Songlist: My Cherie Amour, Time After Time, Say You Love Me, Shenandoah, Whisper When I Speak, It's Too Late, Autumn Leaves, Lovin' You, Out There, White Christmas

Vox One : Vox One

Review: As you might suspect from the self-titling, this is the first recording released in what has come to be recognized as the must-have trilogy of albums by Vox One. Lets go though it. "Edelweiss" is such a difficult harmonization that it became a signature performance tune for the group. "My Romance" almost sounds like a pop/jazz standard only better. "Why Blue" was written by member Yumiko Matsuoka and features a bass and percussive underpinning to a complex wordless scat that's nothing short of great. "The Water Is Wide" is just plain beautiful. "Respect"... well, move over Aretha (sacrilege!). There isn't room in this review! Suffice it to say that the three originals are a portent of things to come, the covers original.

Songlist: Edelweiss, My Romance, Why Blue?, The Water Is Wide, Respect, Ol' Man River, Move On, My Old Kentucky Home, Good Night!, Could You Believe, Missin' You, Amazing Grace

Vox P : A Cappella Vocal Jazz

Review: Vox P, who hail from Denmark but sing in impeccable English, present a collection of standards performed with an undeniable intensity and brilliance. It's this kind of mastery that allows "Fly Me To The Moon" "What Kind of Fool Am I" and "I'm Just Foolin' Myself" to sound fresh and invigorating. The arrangements, by tenor and bass Bo Gad and Jacob Marstrand, are challenging, but never excessive. Soprano Henriette Moos and alto Birgitte Askou are formidable talents; the latter's ability to be both vixenish and achingly tender, coupled with her lustrous tone, are remarkable. The bass' use of "ghost notes" enable the rhythms to really swing. This is a CD you will play again and again.

Songlist: Fly Me to the Moon, What King of Fool Am I, Ability to Swing, Tux 66, He's Asleep, The Bare Necessities, I'm Just Foolin' Myself, Jeg Plukker Flojlsgraes, The Shape of My Heart, One Hundred Ways, A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes, Duet, A Cappella Wa-Ka-Doo, The Little Sandman

Vozes Da Radio : Bruxas, Herois, e Males d'Amor

Review: Portugese jazz/contemporary group Vozes Da Radio's first album "Burxas, Herois & Males D'Amor" ("Witches, Heroes and Love Pains"), recorded in 1995, is mostly a cappella, mostly original, with all arrangements by the group. Considered one of the ten best CD's of the year by the Portugese newspaper "Publico," the group is well-known in their country and shares the bill at stadiums venues with pop and rock bands. The ballad "Ternura," accompanied by solo guitar, is one of their most-requested songs. In general their sound is vocal bass intensive, homophonic, with a natural vocal approach and minimal production or effects. Transcending the typical pop triads with non-diatonic chords and inversions, they have crafted an appealing adult contemporary style.

Songlist: Margarida, Quanto Ao Lembrar, Ternura, Super-Ome, Indios Da Meia Praia, Viagem (Carrocel), Negro Romance, As Voltas Do Vira, Doiro, Lagartixa Do Mal, Valsinha Do Adeaus, Di Voce

WeBe3 : Live & Improvised

Review: Rhiannon, Joey Blake and David Worm are veterans of Bobby McFerrin's Voicestra, and have been involved in the quest to determine how far the human voice can go, individually and with other voices. "World Tour 2007" is an amazing live recording of WeBe3's performance at the Vic in Santa Monica, with Rhiannon mostly singing the leads, Blake adding yummy deep bass lines and Worm making sounds very much like a man playing a drum set. There are 10 cuts, "The Wind," "Ascona Sky," the exotic "Istanbul Blue," "Zingahlae," with Joey taking the lead, the finger-snapping, stream-of-feline-consciousness "Dear Cats," "WeBe3," "Time Goes By," a worthy attempt to describe the experience of living in 3 minutes, "Spontaneous Swing," the crazed "Serbian Taxi Ride" and "Let It Be So." Each of these 3 to 7 minute pieces is at once funny, joyous, unexpected, liberating and amazing. "World Tour 2007" is a pair of top-drawer vocalists and a sublime vocal percussionist going off in the direction of the standing bass- and snare drum-accompanied beat poets at San Francisco coffee houses, but on a whole other level musically and improvisationally. "Live and Improvised" is surprising and delightful from the first cut to the last!

Songlist: The Wind, Ascona Sky, Istanbul Blue, Zingahlae, Dear Cats, WeBe3, Time Goes By, Spontaneous Swing, Serbian Taxi Ride, Let It Be So

West Side 5 : West Side 5

Review: West Side Five is a New York City-based vocal jazz mixed voice quintet (3 men, 2 women), with Real Group, Manhattan Transfer and New York Voices influences. They perform original interpretations of jazz, pop and bossa nova standards at venues in the New York/New Jersey area. They also recently appeared at the Mid-Atlantic Harmony Sweeps Regional in Washington, DC, and won first place and a trip to the 2010 Sweeps Finals in San Rafael! "West Side Five" is a four song Sampler CD, featuring "Pure Imagination," "Lullaby of Birdland," the Real Group-arranged "Thousand Things," and "Lil' Darlin'." We were treated to all but "Lullaby" in their excellent set at the Finals, and John Shumway's spectacular faux trumpet solo onÊ"Lil' Darlin'" drew a huge ovation! The Five have a smooth, richly harmonic sound that compares with many of the elite vocal jazz groups, and we loved their live show. These four selections had us tapping our feet and wanting to hear more!

Songlist: Pure Imagination, Lullaby of Birdland, Thousand Things, Lil' Darlin

West Side 5 : West Side 5

Review: We loved New York City's own 3 men, 2 women Vocal Jazz quintet West Side 5 at the 2010 Harmony Sweeps Finals in San Rafael, their first self-titled EP album, and "West Side 5," this remarkable 12-cut debut CD! The 5 have the kind of sophisticated, buttery jazz harmonies, sweet original arrangements of jazz, pop, show tunes and bossa nova songs and some of the best faux horns we've heard. Some favorites are Billy Strayhorn's "Take the A Train," the Disney standard "Someday My Prince Will Come," Sammy Cahn's "Call Me Irresponsible" and "I Fall In Love Too Easily;" George Shearing's "Lullabye of Birdland," Jones/Schmidt's poignant "Try to Remember," Hupfeld's "As Time Goes By," Tim Eller's bright, scattish "Self-Absorbed, and Newley/Bricusse's "Pure Imagination." "If they can make it there, they'll make it anywhere" is absolutely true, and Lara, Sara, John, Eric & Steven are commonly compared to such elite groups as the Real Group and New York Voices. Great jazz, album and group, don't miss this one!

Songlist: Take the 'A' Train, Someday My Price Will Come, Nobody But Yourself, Wave, Call Me Irresponsible, In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning, Lullaby of Birdland, As Times Goes By, Try To Remember, Self-Absorbed, I Fall In Love Too Easily, Pure Imagination

Western Wind : My Funny Valentine

Review: The Western Wind was formed in 1969 and two of the founders are still singing. Perhaps the longevity of the group is due to the fact that their repertoire includes everything except heavy metal. This particular album includes classic American love songs form 1920 to 1950. The works include songs by Rogers and Hart, George Gershwin, Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington, Brian Wilson and John Denver. Though mostly jazz, their classical training comes through on "My Funny Valentine," particularly. Two songs, "Oh, Lady Be Good" and "I Got Rhythm"were arranged by Dick Hyman who accompanies the group on piano. The cd notes include biographies of the composers and info about the music.

Songlist: I'm Beginning to See the Light, Mood Indigo, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, My Funny Valentine, Oh, Lady Be Good, I Got Rhythm, 'Round Midnight, Well You Needn't, Ruby My Dear, Leaving On A Jet Plane, I Can't Make You Love Me, In My Room, Sh'boom, Life Could Be A Dream

Yumiko Matsuoka : To Every Thing There Is A Season

Review: Founder of legendary Boston-based Vocal Jazz group Vox One, Yumiko has always been one of our favorite vocalists and arrangers. She has two excellent collections of arrangements in the PAC catalog, "Collection Vol. 1" and "Collection Vol. 2." The Anthology "To Every Thing" is her first solo album, and it includes a piece Yumiko wrote for acoustic guitar for some friends' wedding, "Tsubasa," her arrangement of Billy Joel's "And So It Goes," performed by the Western Wind with Yumiko, and her marvelous arrangements of the English Traditional tunes "Scarborough Fair," "Black is the Color" and the title tune, performed by Boston Jazz Voices. The Western Wind also shines on Yumiko's arrangements of Lionel Bart's "Where Is Love" and Lennon/McCartney's "Eleanor Rigby." Yumiko's classically accompanied arrangement of Dylan's "Blowin' In The Wind," her lovely arrangement of Joanie Mitchell's "Both Sides Now," performed by Syncopation; and the Scottish Traditional "Skye Boat Song," performed by Yumiko with the women of the Cerddorion Vocal Ensemble, are all favorites. "To Every Thing" is a remarkable collection, highlighting the tremendous vocal, arranging and composing talents of Vocal Jazz master Yumiko!

Songlist: Tsubasa (wings), And So It Goes, Scarborough Fair, Brett, Where Is Love?, Black Is The Colour, Blowin' In The Wind, Eleanor Rigby, To Every Thing There Is A Season, Georgia On My Mind, Both Sides Now, Skye Boat Song

Idea Of North : The Early Years

Review: A four piece mixed group from Australia, "The Idea of North" has compiled an eclectic mix of songs, performed and arranged in an accessible contemporary jazz style. About half are accompanied; the melody line on "My Funny Valentine" is played by a flugelhorn, and there is bass and percussion on several other songs (bassist Duncan Brown plays in the snappin' and poppin' style of the "Seinfeld" theme). "The 23rd Psalm" (arranged by McFerrin) and "Irish Blessing" reveals a traditional side, and "Just a Closer Walk With Thee" has a gospel inflection and ragtime vocal horn solo. James Taylor's "Shed a Little Light" and "That Lonesome Road" are included, as is Harry Connick's "Trouble." This is a "crossover" record: it could qualify in either the contemporary or jazz categories. The second CD.has guest artists, James Morrison on Trombone on "Mas Que Nada," and "Fragile," the only two very lightly accompanied songs. This is an impressive, confident CD, reminiscent of the Real Group, and all the tunes are so beautifully arranged, selected and performed, it's hard to pick favorites - so we just sat back and enjoyed the sweet jazzy ride. The full color, beautifully photographed liner notes are a perfect complement to the music. Recommended!

Songlist: Sweet, Sweet Spirit, Fragile, Triste, Takes My Breath Away, Amazing Grace, Trouble, Shed A Little Light/The Gulf War Song, Sitting In Limbo, My Funny Valentine, The 23rd Psalm, You've Got What It Takes, That Lonesome Road, Just A Closer Walk With Thee, The Irish Blessing, My Foolish Heart, Straight To My Heart, It's Alright With Me, Mas Que Nada, Neat Surprise, Singin' A Cappella, Gotta Move On, Two Sides to the Story, Fragile, Abide With Me

Manhattan Transfer : Definitive Pop

Review: The ultimate Manhattan Transfer release! Here in this two CD collection are 30 of the fabulous vocal jazz quartet's best recordings spanning the 25 plus years they have been harmonizing together. All the greatest hits are here plus several of the group's personal favorite tracks. The release comes with a insert which includes photos and a history of the group. This is top-knotch four part vocal harmony!

Songlist: Tuxedo Junction, Java Jive, Candy, Gloria, Operator, Chanson D'Amour, The Speak Up Mambo, Four Brothers, Popsicle Toes, On A Little Street In Singapore, A Nightengale Sang In Berkeley Square, Until I Met You, Trickle Trickle, Twilight Zone, Bridland, Boy From New York City, Smile Again, Spice Of Life, Route 66, Mystery, Why Not! (Mahatten Carnival), Baby Come Back To Me (The Morse Code Of Love), Sing Joy Spring, Another Night In Tunesia, Soul Food To Go, So You Say, Stomp Of King Porter, Clouds, Nothing Could Be Hotter Than That, The Offbeat Of Avenues

Singers Unlimited : The Complete A Cappella Sessions

Review: It doesn't get any better than this! After years of being available only on the box set here is a 2 CD release of all 33 a cappella recordings (not including Christmas) of quite probably the best vocal jazz group ever. The arrangements of Gene Puerling are simply exquisite and his ability to transform a song to completely new heights is astounding. We carry many thousands of a cappella CDs and this release is, in our opinion, the most essential CD for the collection of any serious fan of a cappella music!

Songlist: Both Sides Now, London By Night, Here, There And Everywhere, Lullabye, Michelle, The Fool On The Hill, Emily, Since You Asked, More I Cannot Wish You, Try To Remember, Clair, Killing Me Softly with His Song, Yesterday, My Romance, Lost In The Stars, April In Paris, Girl Talk, Nature Boy, I Don't Know Where I Stand, Autumn In New York, Like Someone In Love, Indian Summer, Anything Goes, The Way We Were, One More Time Chuck Corea, Sweet Lorraine, Jeanie With The Light Brown Hair, Someone To Light Up My Life, Love Is Here To Stay, The Entertainer, and more

Manhattan Transfer : Only The Best of the Manhattan Transfer

Review: A collection of both live and studio recordings covering the quartet's early years and all their classic hits with 40 songs in all.

Songlist: Boy From New York City, Java Jive, Gloria, Helpless, Tuxedo Junction, Twilight Zone / Twilight Tone, Ray's Rockhouse, Mystery, Smile Again, Birdland, Four Brothers, Rambo, Meet Benny Bailey, Airegin, To You, Sing Joy Spring, Move, That's Killer Joe, The Duke Of Dubuque, Gloria, On The Boulevard, Shaker Song, Ray's Rockhouse, Birdland, Route 66, Jeannine, Malaise En Malaisie, Trickle Trickle, Boy From New York City, This Independence, and more

Let's All Sing : Let's All Sing Jazz

Review: It's time to jive, swing, scat and more with this great teaching tool for introducing vocal jazz to your younger choirs! This classy collection of jazz favorites features easy voice-leading and supportive accompaniments that make these well-crafted arrangements a breeze to learn. From American jazz legend Louis Armstrong's classic Basin Street Blues to the quirky, jazzy Pink Panther theme by Henry Mancini, young singers will groove to these accessible charts, arranged specifically for young unison voices, with optional harmony for extra jive! The Piano/Vocal Collection offers fully accompanied songs, and the Singer Edition comes in handy paks of ten with vocal parts only. Jazz up your performance with professionally-produced recordings on a separate performance/accompaniment CD. Suggested for grades 4-8.

Songlist: Basin Street Blues, Choo Choo Ch' Boogie, I've Got The World On A String, Java Jive, The Pink Panther, Tuxedo Junction

Voicing: Children

Various : All Woman: Jazz

Review: Complete piano, voice, and guitar arrangements. The accompanying CD gives complete backing tracks which match the arrangements in the book.

Songlist: 'Round Midnight, A Foggy Day (In London Town), Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered (from "Pal Joey"), Misty, Nice Work If You Can Get It (from "Damsel in Distress"), The Girl from Ipanema, Where or When (from "Babes in Arms")

Style: Jazz

Various : Jazz Junior

Review: Alfred's top vocal jazz arrangers were called upon to contribute Great American Songbook arrangements designed to introduce beginners to the genre. And oh, how they delivered! This is an indispensable collection for young soloists or unison singers including reproducible student pages and a fabulous foreword (with developmental exercises) by Dr. Michele Weir. Enhance the jazzy vibe with full rhythm section accompaniments on the available audio. Teach swing, scat, jazz articulations, stylizations, and more! Recommended for grades four and up

Alan Billingsley : Swing's the Thing!

Review: This sizzling crowd pleaser features four swing favorites from the thirties, forties, and fifties. A fantastic choice for concert or show choirs, Alan's hip five-minute arrangement really kicks!

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   SSA,   2-Part

Andy Beck : Jazz Kyrie

Review: Bossa nova (Portuguese for "new trend") is a musical genre that began in Brazil in the 1950s. The combination of samba rhythms, jazz sonorities, and lyrical melodies created a new, sophisticated style that was soon embraced by musicians worldwide. Here's a quintessential bossa nova on just three Latin words. Optional flute and/or vibraphone (available free online) add another smooth layer to this hip contemporary choral.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   2-Part

Audrey Snyder : Falling in Love Again (Can't Help It)

Review: This classic song recorded in the 30's by Marlene Dietrich gets an update with this accessible setting which opens in a straight-forward 3/4 meter, then moves into a fun 4/4 swing.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SSA,   SATB,   SSA

As Performed by: Marlene Dietrich

Barry Manilow : Dancin' Fool

Review: Here is a great chart in the style of Krupa and Rich and a super hot arrangement. Try to sit still when you hear this--it can't be done. If you don't have a big band, the showtrax really brings the style alive.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   SSA,   SATB,   SSA,   SAB

As Performed by: Barry Manilow

Brian Tate : Java Jazz

Review: Coffee keeps me buzzin' all day long. Gotta have a cup of coffee! Sound familiar? These and other java phrases are the basis for this jazzy swing number. Fun vocal rhythms, jazzy harmonies, and individual part-singing help your choir make the scene with the bean and create a wonderfully jittery performance! Available: SAB; StudioTrax CD.

Sheet Music Available: SAB,   SAB

Darmon Meader : Do Nothin' Till You Hear from Me

Review: Darmon Meader (of New York Voices fame) adds his vocal jazz touch to Duke Ellington's classic. The lazy, medium swing tempo is just right, and the full-sounding piano accompaniment supports the voices. Add a jazz trio (piano, bass, drums) with the SoundPax.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: Duke Ellington

Darmon Meader : Honeysuckle Rose

Review: This Grammy Hall of Fame song by Fats Waller is a standard in both the American popular song and jazz idiom. New York Voices mastermind Darmon Meader has created an arrangement that covers both of these areas with a new version for women.

Darmon Meader : I Can't Believe That You're in Love with Me

Review: Recorded by New York Voices on their Sing, Sing, Sing album, this contemporary Darmon Meader arrangement offers superb vocal jazz writing. Perform with the SoundPax or consider using the full jazz band accompaniment.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: New York Voices

Darmon Meader : I Could Write a Book

Review: This swinging Rodgers and Hart tune is classic vocal jazz. Includes a scat solo, which is written out or can be sung ad lib. The singers are definitely the stars here, though the arrangement can be done with a variety of accompaniments: piano alone, small instrumental combo, or full jazz ensemble.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: New York Voices

Darmon Meader : Moonglow

Review: Hereis vocal jazz at its best, from one of todayis top arrangers. This well-conceived arrangement is in a traditional swing style, with lots of tight and tasty harmonies. Bass and Drum parts offered free, online.

Darmon Meader : Moonlight in Vermont

Review: Darmon Meader has achieved international recognition for his work with The New York Voices. Here he arranges this beautiful ballad in the style fitting of this iconic ensemble. Lush, contemporary jazz harmonies and styles define this arrangement with each vocal line featured as if they were soloists. Chord symbols are included for the accomplished jazz pianist but the realized piano part is worthy of the any player. This is a swing ballad that will leave your audience breathless.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SATB

As Performed by: New York Voices

Darmon Meader : On a Clear Day

Review: Recorded by New York Voices on their album A Day Like This, this contemporary swing arrangement offers superb, challenging vocal jazz writing. Recording courtesy of MCGJazz.org.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: New York Voices

Dave Barduhn : Route 66

Review: This arrangement of the Bobby Troup classic has been selected by ACDA as one of the Top Ten vocal jazz arrangements of all time. Now in a new edition, choirs of today can be introduced to this great jazz chart. Available: SATB, ShowTrax CD. Approx. Time: 3:00.

Sheet Music Available: SATB

As Performed by: Manhattan Transfer

Ed Lojeski : High Hopes

Review: This song, made popular by Frank Sinatra in the movie A Hole in the Head, is a song of positive thoughts and acts. An ant moves a rubber tree plant, a ram destroys a dam and our troubles and hardships go away when the balloon is popped. The power of positive thinking. This song won the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 32nd Academy Awards in 1960 and its message is still award-winning.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   2-Part,   2-Part,   SAB,   SATB

As Performed by: Frank Sinatra

Ed Lojeski : I Wish You Love

Review: This song composed almost 70 years ago in France has become a jazz standard, performed and recorded by the most notable artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. This ballad setting captures a quasi-classical feel and a suggestion of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, that gives it a nostalgic quality and the hope that the audience might find bluebirds in the spring and in their hearts a song to sing. Available separately: SATB, SAB, SSA, ShowTrax CD. Rhythm parts available digitally (syn, gtr, b, dm). Duration: ca. 3:55.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB,   SSA,   SSA,   SAB,   SATB

Ed Lojeski : Isn't This a Lovely Day (To Be Caught in the Rain)?

Review: The 1935 motion picture Top Hat introduced this Irving Berlin song to the world and it continues to be a popular standard for jazz performers. It features a vintage, bluesy swing that will showcase your singers at their best! Available separately: SATB, SAB, SSA, ShowTrax CD. Combo parts available digitally (tpt 1, tpt 2, tsx, tbn, syn, gtr, b, dm). Duration: ca. 3:35.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SSA,   SATB,   SSA

Ella Fitzgerald : Shiny Stockings

Review: Showcase your vocal jazz group with this accessible setting of the Ella Fitzgerald/Count Basie standard. Swing style, jazz harmonies, group scat and solo improvisation make this a great selection for developing style and technique.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SSA,   SATB,   SSA

As Performed by: Ella Fitzgerald

Greg Gilpin : Tea for Two

Review: The ultimate soft shoe song has been given novel twists and turns galore! This theme-and-variations arrangement includes the traditional soft shoe, a waltz, a jazz waltz, and a soap opera theme treatment! Perfect for your "novelty" slot in the concert.

Sheet Music Available: SATB,   SAB