Customer Reviews

Manhattan Moods

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My very first recording of Mary Stallings was Manhattan Moods. I enjoyed it so much that her other albums were an easy sell. She reminds me much of Carmen McCrae, but not a carbon copy. She is smooth and graciously tells the story to perfection. Mary, keep em' coming.

Sandra Kaye

In the 1990's San Francisco jazz legend Mary Stallings cut three outstanding albums for Concord Records. "Manhattan Moods" was the third record in that series, ("I Waited for You" was the first; "Spectrum" was the second).

Mary Stallings is a stand up, straight ahead jazz singer. No pop stuff here. Blessed with a four octave range, a brassy vocal edge and an inimitable sense of swing, Ms Stallings is the real deal. If she's not, as the New York Times once said, "... the best jazz singer alive today...," she's certainly among the very best. Got doubts? Well, put "Manhattan Moods" in your CD player and they will be resolved.

"MM" is a set of standards, including "This Can't be Love," "Lullaby of the Leaves," (if you want to have a little fun, compare this studio version to Ms Stallings' live version, five years later, on her "Live at the Village Vanguard" album), "Willow Weep for Me," and "I Don't Stand a Ghost of a Chance."

Ms Stallings is backed by pianist Monte Alexander, Ben Wolfe on bass and drummer Clyde Lucas. Flutist and soprano saxman Dick Oatts sits in on a couple of songs, as does harmonica and vibes player Hendrik Meurkens. These are top notch jazzers and, as Ms Stallings always does, she gives them plenty of opportunity to shine.

The sonics are up to Concord's usual standards: Ms Stallings' voice is front and center and the instruments are clearly and cleanly presented, with just a little warmth.

"Manhattan Moods" is an excellent album by one of our best contemporary singers. If you're in the mood for main stream jazz, then you're in the mood for Mary Stallings.

As the Mom of the fantastically talented, pre-Eryykah Badu, Neo-Soul Sister, Adriana Evans, Mary Stallings reigns a champ. Between the two, talent is in the DNA. And, Manhattan Moods is a testament to Mom's talent and the gift she passes down to her daughter. She blows a set of strong pipes; her voice, still quite clear. There is no need to resort to stunts. While I am a fan of Stallings' debut music--despite what people say about her rawness, I like it; find it to be her authenticity, proving her ability to break through a longstanding tradition--I enjoy her maturity on Manhattan Moods. Queen Stallings' covers of these jazz standards display a commitment to convention. Yet, her style and vocal skills make her renditions creatively savvy. Track 4 How High the Moon is simply lovely, peaceful and romantic. Stallings is a foremother.

My Jazz buddies and I recently sat and listened with rapt attention to this complete CD. We were mesmerized
with delight at her voice and I especially liked that she gave her fabulous band an opportunity to express their talents all of which just enhanced the whole CD. A GREAT buy for any who want to hear what old school Jazz singing was like and can still be today. You will love this CD. I am going after more of Ms. Stallings' music. Manhattan Moods is a must have!