My first project immediately after the retirement of The Manhattan Transfer, it's as much a tribute to The Manhattan Transfer and the work we did as anything else, Janis Siegel. Few artists have done more to shape the modern language of vocal jazz than Janis Siegel. With her five remarkable decades with The Manhattan Transfer and the relationships with all the greats who defined the art, it only makes sense that her newest work would carry the title, The Art of Vocalese. More than a celebration of the uniquely demanding jazz tradition, the album is both a tribute to her mentor, Jon Hendricks, and a reflection on a lifetime devoted to inspired storytelling, beautiful vocal harmonies and joyous music-making. Joined by pianist/arranger John Di Martino, an exceptional band and featured guests, Raul Mid¢n, Lea DeLaria, Laurel Mass', and Lauren Kinhan, Siegel presents an elegant, joyful and richly expressive set of music, topped with the unveiling of several previously unrecorded Hendricks lyrics. The Art of Vocalese is the next step in this master artist's life that further defines her extraordinary career while carrying one of jazz's most exciting traditions forward.