August 28, 2011

Rockapella - Bang!

At last, a collection of mostly new tunes from prolific Contemporary a cappella pioneer, and one of our long-time favorites, Rockapella, swathed in sizzling cool James Bondish graphics by group member Jeff Thacher, who also produced "Bang." New member Steven Dorian joins the all male quintet, taking the place of Kevin Wright. 14 cuts: the fast paced title tune has a funny nod to "Shaft" and sets the table for this very hot album, "Hard Time" has a Dylanesque "get lost" attitude and a driving beat, "Nothin' But" is a classic r&b-type tune that features George Baldi making us believe with his killer bass, joined by John K. Brown's smooth tenor, "Tonight" finally includes on a recording this overtly risque song that the group has used to open their live shows, "Shemibos" is a driving, rhythmic dance gem with John doing a smoking lead, "Malibu Grand-Prix" is a fast-moving ode to the Beach Boys, with the patented Rockapella sense of humor and vocal faux motors revving, "Too Much" is another "get up and dance" winner with a husky lead by John, "Babygirl" again features George's sweet chocolaty bass and is so very fine, "The Shortest Path" is a yummy ballad with another great lead by John, "No Pressure" is an awesome audio-manipulated dance tune anchored by George's creamy bass, and bonus track "A-Punk" originally was released by Vampire Weekend and is simply delicious! Three songs that were first recorded on the album "1man1mike," "4u4now4life," "Tell Me What You Want" and "California Sad Eyed Girl"--all are better versions on "Bang," and all are excellent. Bottom line? "Bang" is one of the best of the year by one of a cappella's elite groups who just keep getting more amazing—don't miss this one! 2985 CD 11.95
Listen to "Bang!

Posted by acapnews at 12:35 AM

August 24, 2011

Vocal Point - Maximum A Cappella

Brigham Young University's premiere 9-man a cappella ensemble, Vocal Point is known for their solid vocal percussion, innovative arrangements and pure vocal firepower. "Back in Blue," the group's eighth album, is a collection of 16 sixteen well-chosen covers. Some favorites are Jason Mraz's "I'm Yours," Earth, Wind & Fire's anthem "September," Hairspray's very funny "Nicest Kids in Town," Sesame Street's "Telephone Opera" complete with hilarious new words, "Game Day," a tribute to popular sports songs, a wonderful arrangement of Josh Groban's "Remember When It Rained," Huey Lewis & The News' "Hip to Be Square." and James Stevens' a cappella arrangement of the powerful, beautiful "Lead, Kindly Light." VP has a fresh, spirited, bright sound that animates these songs and draws us in every time. "Back in Blue" is great Collegiate entertainment and a stone winner! 5982 CD 14.95
Listen to "Grace Kelly

Posted by acapnews at 12:43 AM