Search - Manhattan Transfer :: Extensions

Listening to this CD will take you back to 1979!

gretlcello | middle of Kansas | 12/06/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I love this album! My favorite tracks are "Nothin' U Can Do About It", "Coo Coo U", and "Shaker Song". The group has never sounded finer with new addition, Cheryl Bentyne. The Manhattan Transfer has taken the ability to explore their vocal talents and bring it to a whole new level. And I enjoy listening to some of the modern jazz styles from the late 70s and early 80s on this album. There sure are some extensions here!"

Entry into pop superstardom

William M. Hoar III | Chichester NH | 07/24/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Extensions was the first Manhattan Transfer album that transcended cult status from Lambert, Hendricks and Ross disciples into their own legitimate category of pop perfection, vocal virtuosos. Birdland was a glimpse of what would come later on Vocalese, in terms of showcasing incredible vocal range and virtuosity while singing very difficult jazz or jazz fusion arrangements. Much of the material is pop and this is not a denigration of their efforts, but quite the reverse. Twighlight Zone has a disco feel as this album was released at the height of the Studio 54 craze in 1979, but despite the hokey aspects it really still is a great tune even today. Perhaps the best song on this collecton is Jay Beckenstein's Shaker Song. I have never particularly been a fan of Spyro Gyra, but this version of Shaker Song with the gorgeous alto sax turn by Richie Cole in particular is the best track and one of the best tracks ever by The Transfer. The song evokes strong emotions at least to this listener and Jay Beckenstein ought to get on his knees and thank these folks as they do a much greater rendition than Spyro Gyra ever dreamed of!"