Album Info
| Artist: | The Manhattan Transfer |
| Album: | Mecca For Moderns |
| Released: | Australia, 1981 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | On The Boulevard | 4:08 |
| Lyrics By - Marc Jordan | ||
| Music By - Richard Page | ||
| Music By, Arranged By - Jay Graydon | ||
| A2 | Boy From New York City | 3:40 |
| Arranged By [Rhythm & Horns] - Jay Graydon | ||
| Arranged By [Vocals] - Alan Paul | ||
| Music By, Lyrics By - George Davis, John Taylor | ||
| A3 | (Wanted) Dead Or Alive | 3:27 |
| Arranged By - Jay Graydon | ||
| Lyrics By - Slinger Francisco | ||
| Music By - Art De Coteau | ||
| A4 | Spies In The Night | 3:59 |
| Music By - David Foster | ||
| Music By, Arranged By [Rhythm & Vocals] - Jay Graydon | ||
| Music By, Lyrics By, Arranged By [Vocals] - Alan Paul | ||
| A5 | Smile Again | 4:33 |
| Lyrics By - Alan Paul | ||
| Music By - Bill Champlin | ||
| Music By, Arranged By - Jay Graydon | ||
| Music By, Arranged By [Strings] - David Foster | ||
| B1 | Until I Met You (Corner Pocket) | 5:17 |
| Arranged By [Rhythm & Vocals] - Jay Graydon | ||
| Arranged By [Vocals] - Janis Siegel | ||
| Lyrics By - Don Wolf | ||
| Music By - Freddie Green | ||
| B2 | (The Word Of) Confirmation | 3:14 |
| Arranged By - Milcho Leviev | ||
| Lyrics By - Eddie Jefferson | ||
| Music By - Charlie Parker | ||
| B3 | Kafka | 4:08 |
| Music By, Arranged By - Bernard Kafka, Jay Graydon | ||
| B4 | A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square | 3:46 |
| Arranged By - Gene Puerling | ||
| Music By, Lyrics By - Eric Maschwitz, Manning Sherwin |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
"Mecca for Moderns" by The Manhattan Transfer is a delightful journey through a diverse array of musical styles, showcasing the group's exceptional vocal harmonies and innovative arrangements. Released on June 8, 1981, this album is a testament to The Manhattan Transfer's ability to blend jazz, pop, and a touch of R&B into a cohesive and engaging listening experience.
One of the standout features of "Mecca for Moderns" is its eclectic mix of songs, each bringing something unique to the table. The album opens with "On the Boulevard," a track that sets the tone with its upbeat tempo and catchy melody. The group's vocal prowess is immediately evident, with each member contributing to the rich, layered sound that has become their trademark.
Perhaps the most notable track on the album is "The Boy from New York City," which became a major hit for the group. This song not only showcases their vocal harmonies but also their ability to infuse a sense of fun and nostalgia into their music. "The Boy from New York City" was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning the group a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1982.
Another highlight is "Spies in the Night," a track that blends elements of jazz and pop with a slightly mysterious vibe. The song's intricate arrangement and the group's precise vocal delivery make it a standout on the album. "Twilight Zone/Twilight Tone" is another gem, with its clever lyrics and dynamic arrangement that pays homage to the classic TV series while adding a modern twist.
The album's production, handled by Jay Graydon, is polished and sophisticated, allowing the group's vocal talents to shine. Graydon's experience and expertise in the studio are evident throughout the album, as he skillfully balances the various musical elements to create a seamless listening experience.
Critically, "Mecca for Moderns" was well-received, with many reviewers praising The Manhattan Transfer's ability to innovate within the vocal jazz genre. The album's blend of styles and the group's impeccable harmonies were often highlighted as key strengths. It also holds a special place in the history of vocal jazz, as it helped to bring the genre to a wider audience during the early 1980s.
In addition to its commercial and critical success, "Mecca for Moderns" is culturally significant for its role in popularizing vocal jazz and showcasing the versatility of The Manhattan Transfer. The album's success helped to cement the group's reputation as one of the leading vocal ensembles of their time, influencing countless artists and groups that followed.
Overall, "Mecca for Moderns" is a must-listen for fans of vocal jazz and anyone who appreciates expertly crafted music. The Manhattan Transfer's ability to blend different genres and create something truly unique is on full display here, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, this album is sure to delight and impress with its creativity and charm.
