January 18, 2008

Denver A Cappella Project - Beyond Ordinary

This Colorado-based evenly-mixed voice a cappella octet was formed in 1999, and has a varied repertoire ranging from Jazz to Pop, Classical and Gospel to Folk. "Beyond Ordinary's" 14 cuts highlight this versatility, beginning with Stefan Farrenkopf's deadpan "Easter Island Head," Jesse Harris' moody "Don't Know Why," Charles Sylvestri and Eric Whitacre's brooding , dissonant "Sleep," the nice Derric Johnson-arranged "Railroad Medley," a bluesy, rhythmic "Route 66," traditional favorites "Amazing Grace" and "Ezekiel Saw de Wheel," Greg Jasperse's ethereal "Voice Dance," Lennon/McCartney's "Lady Madonna," the Moses Hogan-arranged spiritual "Elijah Rock," and finishing strong with the traditional "All Creatures of Our God and King." DACP has three excellent recordings and years of live performances under their belts, and it shows. Sweet harmonies, solid vocal percussion, deep basslines, spirited leads—this is fun stuff from this talented octet! 2443 CD 14.95
Listen to "Easter Island Head

Posted by acapnews at 12:35 AM

January 17, 2008

Whiffenpoofs - Whiffs In Space

As one of the nation’s oldest and most acclaimed collegiate a cappella groups the Whiffenpoofs have, during their 99 years of existence, sung all over the world. With their 100 year anniversary approaching the group decided that was not quite enough so now “The Whiffs” have taken off to explore the universe where “in space nobody can hear you sing”. This recording reflects their long tradition by performing a selection of more traditional male glee club type songs along with a very healthy mix of contemporary a cappella songs. With such a long and proud tradition the Whiffenpoofs have always been one of the creams of the crop and this year’s group more than hold their own on this fine recording. An added bonus is the printed insert which turns into a cool poster. 1768 CD 14.95
Listen to "Time After Time

Posted by acapnews at 9:55 PM

January 9, 2008

Naturally 7 - Ready 11 Fly

Since we were first blown away by seven-man Contemporary Christian a cappella group Naturally Seven (then simply called Seven) at their win at the 1999 Harmony Sweeps Finals, they have released some very special recordings, "Non Fiction," "Live in Berlin," "What Is It?" and "Christmas A Love Story." "Ready II Fly" is a cut above even those winners, 18 stunning songs that make us look for the "all sounds made by the human voice" disclaimer, and we of course find it. Naturally 7's Christian ministry has tremendous depth and feeling, but what we especially appreciate here is songs like "I Can't Doo Dat," which addresses the issue of women fans approaching these beautiful black men for sex after a concert; "True Friends (and Family)" that speaks to their importance and of acting with integrity; "Cool," which sings of the impressive power of having God in one's life; and "Forever For You" which celebrates the concept of an endless love, for God and one's partner. Lyrically, this is powerful stuff - I think of it as life-changing wisdom being passed on by the ultimate musical role models. "Can You Feel It," "Open Your Eyes," "Feel It in the Air Tonight," "Fly Baby," "Let It Rain" - these are some of the best, most cutting-edge a cappella cuts we have ever heard. "Ready II Fly" is highly recommended, and one of the best of the year. And if you ever have a chance to experience N7 live in concert, even if you have to go to Germany to do it, don't miss it! 2469 CD 16.95
Listen to "I Can't Doo Dat

Posted by acapnews at 12:13 AM

January 8, 2008

Flying Without Instruments - FWI Will Rock You

FWI describes itself as "a refreshingly quirky yet musically substantive eight-person San Francisco-based a cappella ensemble known for its versatility and unpredictability." Founded in 1996, this 4-man, 4-woman ensemble gave a very impressive performance at the 2005 Bay Area Regional, and prides itself in singing something for everyone. These 17 cuts are clear evidence of this: a wonderfully harmonic cover of CSN&Y's "CarryOn/Questions" medley, Shakira's "Whenever, Wherever," Lennon/McCartney's "Can't Buy Me Love" performed as a Renaissance madrigal, and the heart-tugging WWII anthem " I'll Be Seeing You" are part of a musical Whitman's Sampler that continually delights and surprises. k.d. lang's hit "Constant Cravings," Z. Randall Stroope's lovely "Amor de mi Alma," J.S. Bach's hilarious "Traffic Fugue" (with lyrics added, with no disrespect, by C. Seagrave); Randy Weeks' country tune "Can't Let Go," and the silly "Plastic Jesus," Joni Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi," and The Arachnid Suite: "The Spider" and " The Spider in the Bath" are favorites. This is fun, entertaining stuff with something to please everyone! 2487 CD 14.95
Listen to "The Spider

Posted by acapnews at 2:11 AM