Groundbreaking southern California winners of NBC's The Sing-Off, season 3, mixed (1 woman, 4 men) quintet Pentatonix has re-addressed the a cappella envelope with their transformation of pop hits and innovative arrangements. Just in time for the season, the group ducked into the recording studio and left this brightly-wrapped all a cappella 6-song EP under our tree, and we have to say, PTX has re-invented the Christmas album! Cut 1 is a stunning, beatboxed, hip-hopped, driving version of "Angels We Have Heard On High" that is unlike any carol we've ever heard; #2, "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" is a powerfully dramatic, rhythmic arrangement with roaring wind effects; #3 "Carol Of The Bells" drives and soars like Santa after a few drinks on the Interstate, #4 "The Christmas Song" is a bluesy finger-popper with a sweet tenor lead and even some faux trombone; #5 "O Holy Night" is more traditional, harmonic, soaring and sweet, and #6 "This Christmas" is a romantic, driving pop hit that promises big changes in the relationship this season. Pentatonix clearly has the vocal chops, arranging talent and the (circular Christmas tree ornaments) to use them. Watch out, Santa! |