The Manhattan Transfer Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a The Manhattan Transfer band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
-
See Gear
Roles:
Groups:
Aztec Camera Electro-Harmonix Work Band Bob James Quintet Toph-E & The Pussycats Bob Mintzer Big Band Akiko Yano Trio The Fab Faux Gary Burton & Friends BFD Eric Doney Trio Flying Monkey Orchestra 24th Street Band Child Is Father to the Man Toxic Monkey The Orchestra For New York City Paul Shaffer & The Party Boys Of Rock 'N' Roll John Blackwell Project The V.I.P. Club Ivan Lins (band) George Benson (band) Paul Shaffer & the World's Most Dangerous Band Bob Berg (band) Brecker Brothers Paul Shaffer & the CBS Orchestra -
See Gear
-
See Gear
No gear added
-
See Gear
- See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
No gear added
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
No gear added
-
See Gear
Roles:
No gear addedGroups:
About
The Manhattan Transfer is a renowned American vocal group celebrated for its seamless blend of pop, jazz fusion, vocal jazz, a cappella, and lounge music. Formed in 1972 in New York City, the group initially consisted of Tim Hauser, Laurel Massé, Janis Siegel, and Alan Paul. Over the years, the lineup has evolved, with Cheryl Bentyne joining in 1979 and Trist Curless coming on board in 2014, following Tim Hauser's passing. The quartet is distinguished by its intricate vocal harmonies and diverse musical repertoire, earning them numerous accolades, including 10 GRAMMY Awards. Their music reflects a timeless elegance, rooted in the vocal harmonies and stylistic versatility that have made them an iconic presence in the music world.
How to Sound Like The Manhattan Transfer
The Manhattan Transfer's sound is a sophisticated tapestry of clean, melodic vocal harmonies intricately woven with rhythmic precision. Their vocal arrangements create an ambient yet vibrant atmosphere, often leaning on lush jazz chords and dynamic harmonization. This polished sound is complemented by subtle instrumental backing that highlights the quartet's vocal prowess. To emulate their sound, one might focus on achieving a warm and articulate vocal tone, possibly enhanced by gear like the Boss VE-20 Vocal Performer, which offers versatile vocal effects to enrich live performances. The use of acoustic and electric bass, such as the Sadowsky Will Lee 5 string bass, can provide a rich, foundational groove that underpins their intricate vocal lines. Overall, The Manhattan Transfer's sound is a blend of intricate vocal harmony and understated instrumental sophistication, ideal for musicians looking to capture the essence of vocal jazz fusion.
Discography
Jukin'
1971
The Manhattan Transfer
1975
Coming Out
1976
Pastiche
1978
Extensions
1979
Mecca For Moderns
1981
Bodies And Souls
1983
Bop Doo-Wopp
1984
Vocalese
1985
Brasil
1987
The Offbeat Of Avenues
1991
The Christmas Album
1992
Tonin'
1995
Swing
1997
The Spirit Of St. Louis
2000
Vibrate
2004
An Acapella Christmas
2006
The Symphony Sessions
2006
The Chick Corea Songbook
2009
The Christmas Concert (Live)
2014
The Junction
2018
The Summit-Live on Soundstage
2018
Fifty
2022
Get the The Manhattan Transfer Sound
Want to sound like The Manhattan Transfer? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
