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Artist

Carmen McRae

Birds Of A Feather (Verve Vault Series) LP

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Description

Released in 1958 on Decca, Birds of a Feather finds vocalist Carmen McRae exploring a cleverly unified concept, with every song in the program referencing birds in some way. Arranged and conducted by Ralph Burns, the album pairs McRae’s poised, expressive delivery with lush, sophisticated orchestration that balances swing and mood. A standout feature is the presence of tenor saxophonist Ben Webster, whose warm, expressive tone adds depth and contrast, alongside additional players including Al Cohn on tenor sax, Marky Markowitz on trumpet, and Don Abney on piano. Recorded over several August sessions in New York City, the album moves through standards like “Skylark,” “Bye Bye Blackbird,” and “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square,” unified by the thematic conceit without feeling restrictive. Birds of a Feather stands out in McRae’s Decca catalog for its imaginative programming and the interplay between voice and ensemble, highlighting her ability to bring nuance and cohesion to even the most unusual repertoire.

Tracklist

A1 Skylark

A2 Bob White

A3 A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square

A4 Mister Meadowlark

A5 Bye Bye Blackbird

A6 Flamingo

B1 The Eagle And Me

B2 Baltimore Oriole

B3 When The Red, Red Robin Comes Bob, Bob, Bobbin' Along

B4 Chicken Today And Feathers Tomorrow

B5 When The Swallows Come Back To Capistrano

B6 His Eye Is On The Sparrow

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