The Manhattan Transfer: Vocalese Live
The Manhattan Transfer: Vocalese Live

Movie spotlight

The Manhattan Transfer: Vocalese Live

1986
Movie
80 min
English

Experience the exuberant jazz and harmonic vocals of The Manhattan Transfer in this spectacular performance at Nakano Sun Plaza Hall in Tokyo. Recorded in February 1986, the 80-minute concert features 19 songs, including "Birdland", "Java Jive", "Boy from New York City", "Four Brothers", "Rambo", "Meet Benny Baily", "Airegin", "To You", "Sing Joy Spring", "Move", "That's Killer Joe", "The Duke of Dubuque" and "Gloria".

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Director: Don MischerGenres: Music, Concert Film

Plot Summary

This concert film captures the acclaimed vocal group The Manhattan Transfer performing their Grammy-winning album 'Vocalese' live. Featuring intricate vocal arrangements and jazz standards, the performance showcases their unique blend of harmonies and scat singing. The special also includes guest appearances by jazz legends Jon Hendricks and Chaka Khan, who contributed to the original album. It's a celebration of vocal jazz artistry.

Critical Reception

As a television special, 'Vocalese Live' was critically well-received for its musicality and the impressive performance by The Manhattan Transfer and their guests. It was noted for its faithful rendition of the Grammy-winning album and its contribution to keeping sophisticated vocal jazz accessible to a wider audience. The production quality was also generally praised for capturing the energy of a live performance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stunning vocal harmonies and complex arrangements.

  • Celebrated for faithfully recreating the magic of the 'Vocalese' album.

  • Hailed as a showcase for the enduring talent of The Manhattan Transfer and guest artists.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this 1986 television special is not readily available.

Awards & Accolades

None notable (the album 'Vocalese' won multiple Grammy Awards, and this live special was a presentation of that work).

Fun Fact

The studio album 'Vocalese' itself won 12 Grammy Awards in 1986, a record at the time, making this live special a highly anticipated showcase of that acclaimed work.

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