After Hours (1961 Sarah Vaughan album)

After Hours is a studio album by American jazz vocalist Sarah Vaughan, released in 1961 on the Roulette Records label. The album features Vaughan accompanied by a small jazz ensemble, including trumpeter Waymon Reed, pianist Mundell Lowe, bassist Richard Davis, and drummer Osie Johnson.

The album is characterized by its intimate and late-night atmosphere, showcasing Vaughan's remarkable vocal control and phrasing in a relaxed setting. The repertoire consists primarily of standards from the Great American Songbook, with arrangements that highlight the nuances of Vaughan's interpretations.

Key tracks on After Hours include "You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To," "Sophisticated Lady," "Great Day," and "Ill Wind." The album is generally regarded as one of Vaughan's more understated and sophisticated recordings, demonstrating her ability to convey deep emotion through subtle vocal techniques rather than overt displays of power. It remains a popular and respected entry in her extensive discography, frequently cited as an example of her artistry in a small-group setting.