Karen Mantler

Originally released in 1990, Get The Flu is the debut album from Karen Mantler-a witty, idiosyncratic songwriter, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist-joined by her feline muse, Arnold. Recorded at Grog Kill Studio in New York, the album blends deadpan humor, offbeat storytelling, and jazz-inflected pop across ten distinctive tracks, including “The Flu,” “I Love Christmas,” and “Let’s Have A Baby”. Mantler’s vocals, harmonica, and organ are at the heart of the project, supported by a remarkable ensemble: Eric Mingus (guitar), Steven Bernstein (trumpet), Pablo Calogero (baritone sax, flute), Marc Muller (guitar), Steve Weisberg (keyboards), Jonathan Sanborn (bass), Ethan Winogrand (drums), and special guests Michael Mantler (trumpet), Carla Bley (C-melody saxophone), and Steve Swallow (flugelhorn).

With its playful spirit and sly lyrical twists, Get The Flu stands out as a unique entry in the ECM/XtraWatt catalog, reflecting the influence of Mantler’s celebrated musical family while forging her own singular path. The album’s blend of jazz, pop, and quirky narrative makes it a cult favorite for listeners seeking music that’s both clever and heartfelt.