In memory of Tim Hauser

In memory of Tim Hauser, founder of The Manhattan Transfer, who passed away at 72 on Thursday, here are some of the most stellar Manhattan Transfer selections:

• Birdland (A great match of lyrics with Joe Zawinul's Weather Report classic.)
• Caroling, Caroling (One of the best vocal renditions of this carol; four voices pack the same punch as a full choir in this case.)
• Four Brothers (One of the group's strongest efforts; an impressive take on a Woody Herman tune, with each of the four members taking the part of a band member brother.)
• Java Jive (A rare tune that works in four-part harmony as well as it works for a solo vocalist or instrumentalist.)
• A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square (One of the group's slower, more contemplative covers.)
• The Offbeat Of Avenues (A good early '90s track showing off the group's range.)
• On The Boulevard (It's no wonder that the group chose this as its leadoff track on the "Mecca For Moderns" album; it's a strong uptempo number that starts the album off on a brisk, positive note.)
• Shaker Song (An interesting marriage of lyrics with one of Spyro Gyra's best-known jazz melodies.)
• Sing Joy Spring (Beautiful harmony on this track; Ron McCroby's whistled version of it is also worth seeking out.)
• That's The Way It Goes (Please see my October 17 post about songs that say all they need to say in less than three minutes.)
• Trickle Trickle (An excellent team effort with a bounce.)

Kudos to Tim Hauser for having the vision to put together a vocal ensemble that has radiated class, excellence, and professionalism throughout its entire career.