Definition
Kenton with Voices is a studio album by American jazz bandleader, pianist, and composer Stan Kenton, released in 1957 on Capitol Records.
Overview
The recording presents Kenton’s progressive big‑band sound supplemented by a vocal ensemble, a format that contrasted with his primarily instrumental output of the 1940s and early 1950s. Sessions for the album were held in late 1956 and early 1957 at Capitol Studios in Hollywood. The release was part of a series of Capitol projects that sought to broaden Kenton’s commercial appeal by integrating popular vocal arrangements with his modern‑jazz orchestration. Critical reception at the time highlighted the blend of Kenton’s complex brass textures with the smoother, lyrical approach of the vocal group, though opinions varied regarding the artistic compatibility of the two elements.
Etymology/Origin
The title combines the surname of the bandleader, Kenton, with the descriptive phrase with Voices, indicating the participation of a vocal chorus alongside the instrumental orchestra. The naming follows a common mid‑20th‑century practice of labeling big‑band recordings that featured guest vocalists or choral sections (e.g., Benny Goodman with Vocals).
Characteristics
- Musical style: The album merges Kenton’s modern, sometimes dissonant big‑band arrangements with traditional pop‑style vocal harmonies.
- Arrangements: Contributions came from Kenton’s regular arrangers, including Bill Holman and Johnny Richards, who adapted their orchestrations to accommodate vocal passages.
- Personnel: In addition to Kenton’s regular orchestra members (trumpets, trombones, saxophones, rhythm section), the vocal component was provided by a studio choir directed by vocal arranger Bob Corman (the specific ensemble name is not widely documented).
- Track listing: The record contains a selection of standards and original compositions, such as “My One and Only Love,” “All the Things You Are,” and “The Lonesome Road,” each featuring vocal choruses integrated with Kenton’s instrumental backing.
- Production: Produced by Capitol’s A&R team, the sessions employed the label’s advanced recording techniques, including multi‑track layering to balance the dense brass sections with the vocal group.
Related Topics
- Stan Kenton – American bandleader noted for his innovative big‑band arrangements.
- Capitol Records – The label that released Kenton with Voices and many other Kenton recordings.
- Jazz big band – The ensemble format central to Kenton’s career.
- Vocal jazz – The genre encompassing jazz performances that feature vocalists or choirs.
- Progressive jazz – A style associated with Kenton’s experimental approach to harmony and orchestration.