The Art of Vocalese

Few artists have done more to shape the modern language of vocal jazz than former Manhattan Transfer member Janis Siegel, herself a fabulous—and always fun—live performer. Her new album, The Art of Vocalese (Origin), is both a tribute to her mentor, master vocalist-lyricist Jon Hendricks (featuring rediscovered Hendricks lyrics) and a reflection on a lifetime devoted to inspired storytelling and beautiful vocal harmonies. "This was my first project immediately after the retirement of The Manhattan Transfer," Siegel says. "It's as much a tribute to Manhattan Transfer and the work we did as anything else." The album also features vocalists Raul Midón, Lea DeLaria and Siegel's vocal trio JaLaLa, with Laurel Massé and Lauren Kinhan.