That Old Black Magic (J.Farley)

Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer’s timeless 1942 classic "That Old Black Magic," introduced originally in the film *Star Spangled Rhythm* and subsequently immortalized by vocal heavyweights like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald, stands as one of the definitive pillars of the Great American Songbook. Rooted in the golden age of swing and vocal jazz, the composition relies on an irresistible harmonic tension and a galloping, chromatic verse structure that naturally invites bold, theatrical interpretation. Its enduring status as a jazz standard stems from its dramatic peaks and valleys, offering arrangers a fertile canvas to explore contrasting textures ranging from sultry, understated swing to high-octane big band pyrotechnics. John Farley’s masterful big band treatment captures the sultry, hypnotic intensity of the original composition while injecting a sophisticated, contemporary harmonic palette tailored for a full 18-piece ensemble. Propelled by a crisp, driving medium-up swing groove in 4/4, the arrangement balances aggressive brass punch with intricate, interlocking saxophone solis. Farley employs lush, extended chord voicings in the reed section that nod to classic Nelson Riddle arrangements, while the brass section utilizes dynamic swells, sharp staccato accents, and calculated rhythmic displacements to build relentless momentum. The emotional trajectory shifts seamlessly from mysterious and seductive in the opening vocal statement to an unbridled, thunderous shout chorus that showcases the full dynamic range of the band. Vocalist and lead instrumentalists alike will find rich opportunities for expression within the score's 48 pages of meticulously copied parts. The arrangement places the vocal front and center, supported by clever counter-melodies in the saxophones and warm, harmon muted brass pads that never crowd the lyric. An open-ended solo section provides a featured spot for either alto saxophone or trumpet, framed by punchy background figures that encourage modern, modal-leaning improvisational vocabulary. Technical demands are concentrated in the tight ensemble phrasings, fast articulation passages in the sax section, and upper-register endurance required for the lead trumpet during the climactic final choruses. Advanced high school groups with strong lead players, as well as collegiate and professional community jazz orchestras, will find this chart an absolute showstopper for festival programs or gala concert sets. The arrangement rewards meticulous attention to stylistic articulation—particularly the precise execution of back-phrased swing eighth notes and dynamic shading—making it an immensely satisfying centerpiece that consistently electrifies audiences. Conductors should approach John Farley’s arrangement with a strict focus on rhythmic precision and dynamic contrast. Set the tempo at a comfortable, driving medium swing (approx. quarter note = 160 BPM), ensuring the rhythm section maintains an unhurried, buoyant pocket that never rushes the forward momentum. The primary technical challenge lies in the tight, interlocking ensemble solis; the saxophone section must spend dedicated rehearsal time aligning their articulation on fast chromatic passages, while the brass need to balance their volume carefully during vocal backgrounds so the lyric remains crystal clear. Encourage the drummer to utilize subtle hi-hat pressure on beats 2 and 4, building tension through tasteful cymbal crashes rather than sheer volume during the transitional phrases. Brass players should utilize cup and harmon mutes where indicated to achieve that authentic, smoky mid-century atmosphere, executing falls and doits with stylistic restraint rather than exaggeration. Balance is paramount: ensure the rhythm section comps lightly behind the horn solis to let the complex inner voicings breathe. Q: What instruments and parts are included in this 18-instrument arrangement? A: The chart includes a full big band instrumentation consisting of a Vocal lead sheet, 2 Alto Saxophones, 2 Tenor Saxophones, Baritone Saxophone, 4 Trumpets, 4 Trombones, Piano, Guitar, Bass, and Drums. Q: What is the difficulty level of this John Farley arrangement? A: This arrangement is graded as advanced (Level 4/5), making it best suited for collegiate, professional, or elite high school jazz orchestras with strong lead players and a confident vocalist. Q: What is the historical and stylistic context of this piece? A: It is a jazz standard based on Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer’s 1942 classic, arranged here in a vibrant, sophisticated medium-swing style that pays homage to the golden age of vocal big bands. Q: What makes this specific arrangement unique? A: Farley’s chart stands out due to its lush, extended harmonic voicings, clever counter-melodies behind the vocal, and a thrilling, high-energy shout chorus that revitalizes a familiar standard. Q: What is the performance duration and recommended tempo? A: The arrangement runs approximately 3.5 to 4 minutes and is best performed at a driving medium swing tempo around 160 beats per minute.