Acoustix are one of the most consistently impressive barbershop groups performing today. "Cool Yule," their first holiday-themed recording, will add to their legend. Greg Volk arranged several songs, including "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch," (sung by bass Joel Rutherford, who also contributed two arrangements). Two Beach Boys scores, "Auld Lang Syne" and "Little Saint Nick," and a Mervyn Warren (of Take 6) chart, "The First Noel," show the quartet's burgeoning versatility, and it sounds great. For those listeners who prefer Acoustix to stay close to their barbershop origins, the locked-in chords of "O Little Town Of Bethlehem" and "Mary Had A Baby" will be a treat. About half accompanied in swinging big band style.

Listen to Silver Bells in Real Audio.

It is only two years after the first album which was pure classical barbershop. On Stars & Stripes the same perfectly pitched close harmonies are in full bloom but the repertoire is expanded considerably. There is a rousing selection of patriotic songs, "The Stars and Stripes Forever," "The Star Spangled Banner," "God Bless The USA" and more! In the middle of the lineup we find a touch of jazz and then barberwop on "Unchained Melody." Acoustix is joined by Panache, the 1990 Queens of Harmony, for two songs on which they sing quartet duets. They do a chills up the back rendition of "This Is The Moment" just before closing with "So Many Voices Sing America's Song" on which they are joined by The American Pops Orchestra and The Vocal Majority. Stunning!

Listen to "The Star Spangled Banner" and "Stars and Stripes Forever"

Rewarding loyal fans after years of anticipation, Acoustix presents a cache of songs guaranteed to please a wide variety of listeners. Their opening statement, the title tune "Jazz, Jazz, Jazz," is performed in homage to the greats of the era: Nat, Benny, Frank, and of course, the Four Freshmen, to whom Acoustix pay tribute throughout this album. This is not music for barbershop fans only, though the characteristic purity of the voices and seventh chords endemic to the genre are still very much in evidence. Indeed, five of the songs feature orchestral accompaniment in the big band style: "Jazz, Jazz, Jazz," "Day by Day," "Poinciana," "Graduation Day/It's a Blue World" and "Route 66." Guest vocalists Jim Clancy, Greg Clancy and Wendy Wilson DeCrow (of Vocal Majority) augment the much-anticipated Gene Perling arrangement of "Unforgetable" (Jim and Greg) and "The Nearness of You." (Other arrangements on the CD were done by the renowned Greg Volk.) The closing medley of Simon and Garfunkel hits reveals yet another side of this amazing quartet's range and prowess.

Listen to The Nearness of You in Real Audio.

Dallas, Texas is the home of the Vocal Majority. From this exalted platform leaped three of the four Acoustix members Jeff, Todd and Jason. Rick joined them from the Town North Chorus, an across town rival. Collectively they performed a one-in-a-million feat by sweeping their four state preliminary competition to go to San Francisco for the SPEBSQSA International Quartet Championship where they won the gold medal in their first attempt at the competition! Let the perfect harmonies and dynamics, which won the hearts and ears of that crowd of 9,000 in 1990, move you right now. Listen to barbershop's finest whom the judges felt were the best in the world! Songlist

This is one snazzy quartet - the Auto Towners had definitely calculated the entertainment quotient, and one look at them in their costumes on the back cover will tell you that; their win at the 1966 Chicago Convention made quite an impression! Though they only continued quartetting until '69, songs such as "My Love Is Like A Red Red Rose" (with a solo by Clint Bostick, baritone) and "Everything's Coming Up Roses" evoke all of the romance and nostalgia of this classic American form, and are impossible to resist. Truly awesome versions of "I Wish You Love," "Dancing On The Ceiling" and "Through The Years" show that the Auto Towners actual forte were tender, achingly lovely ballads - the harmonic resonance of these four voices would stop traffic! Songlist

What is Bob's Yer Uncle's greatest selling point (clearly they do want their audience to put their money where their mouths are, so they can go on vacation, as the back of the CD says)? It's the tone of their blend. What defines good tone is to a degree a matter of opinion, but we'd wager that this Canadian quartet would attract attention in any part of the world by virtue of their warm and engaging sound. These 1999 Ontario District Champs are heard to greatest advantage on songs such as "Moonlight Becomes You" and "It Is Well With My Soul," where the long legato notes and syllables are a perfect showcase. The group is skillful in their use of dynamics, and though they can pull off the big finish with splashy tags ("Down Among TheSugar-Cane" and "Slow Boat To China"), Bob knows better than to rely on athletic displays of lung power. A quartet with great potential. Songlist

This beautifully packaged double CD truly conveys the Boston Common aesthetic, which earned them not only the 1980 Championship, but also a exalted reputation that became the stuff of legend. Though they had no full-time coach, big band arranger Lou Perry frequently wrote arrangements for them (a point of principle, explained further in the liner notes, that apparently resulted in some political fallout), and the big band influence can be easily discerned ("Melancholy Baby"). "We Three," co-arranged by Perry and the group themselves, sounds like the early vocal harmony that became doo wop, whereas "Chatanooga Shoe Shine Boy" is a blues/barbershop amalgam that definitely isn't typical (arranger's credit to the Four Rascals, a quartet to whom the Boston Common pay repeated tribute). In general, the group's reverence for barbershop as not merely entertainment but as art radiates throughout. Songlist

Listen to "Don't Tell Me the Same Thing Over Again" or "What'll I Do?"

Here's history for you. The Buffalo Bills were International Champions in 1951 and are well remembered today for their appearance as a barbershop quartet in the 1962 movie 'The Music Man.' That appearance along with their winning harmonies leave an inspired heritage for today. The Chordettes were a Wisconsin group who shifted their focus from folk music to close harmony in the late '40s. After winning Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scout Show they became regulars on the show, which is why you'll hear them singing "Down By The Old Mill Stream" with Arthur on this recording. From 1954-1961 The Chordettes had thirteen songs on the top hundred charts including the 1954 hit "Mr. Sandman." This is a must-have for anyone interested in the history of great barbershop groups! Songlist

The barbershop world is full of up-and-coming talent - who knows what quartet of today will be the gold medallists of tomorrow? Checkmate, who hail from the Land O' Lakes District, have produced an enjoyable and professional recording that pays homage to the quartets that are their inspiration. The Suntones, Second Edition, Boston Common and the Buffalo Bills receive top billing, with arrangers Walter Latzko, Ed Waesche and Mark Hale (among others), assigning the notes. Special mention has to go to "Firefly," which was performed by Jay Galliambardo's quartet, the 1979 Champions Grandma's Boys (now how many of you knew that?) "Friend Like Me," from the Disney movie "Aladdin," is the best entertainment value per measure. Songlist

The Chicago News were formed in 1979 and retired in 1985, winning a silver, and then gold medal, in between. Having re-united, this stalwart quartet proves that it still has the mettle. Swiping and sliding, with a dense and hearty blend, their sound emphasizes rich tonality over complex embellishment. "Everything Old Is New Again" is particularly appropriate, and "I Want A Girl," "My Gal Sal" and "Heart Of My Heart" will satisfy those who prefer their Society favorites. "Together/The Three Of Us" is a comic recognition that "we're a whole lot better with four," - listen to that tag, descending through two fifths for effect. When it comes to singing a love song, such as "Didn't We," "If" or "The Way We Were," Chicago News show that silver hair hasn't compromised their charm one bit. Songlist

1988 winners from Illinois, who have a solidly vertical approach and fold some adult contemporary pop into their mix. While we have no specific knowledge that they were an influence, we detect similarities to Dealer's Choice in terms of overall sound and style. Their tone has a suffused brightness, but is never strident. Ornamentation and solo passages add texture ("Memory" is particularly noteworthy), crescendos ("I've Gotta Be Me") when used, add impact. Though uncredited, instrumental tracks can be heard on a couple of the arrangements ("When Will I Be Loved," "With Plenty Of Money and You"). Songlist

Des Plaines, IL's Chiefs of Staff pay "Tribute" on this CD to coaches, wives, families and fans that helped them along in their quest for 1988 SPEBSQSA quartet Gold. But in their song selection they also tip their hats to many legendary SPEBSQSA groups who inspired them, from the Night Hawks' immortal "Buddy, Can You Spare A Dime," to the Mark IV's "Piano Roll Blues" and "Million Tomorrows." A nod to Detroit's Gentlemen's Agreement's "Ma, She's Making Eyes," Chicago's Elastic Four's "Mood Indigo," and foursomes such as the Suntones, Chicago News, Four Statesmen, and the Easternaires. 11 tunes, some other favorites are "Sam the Old Accordion Man," "They Wrote 'Em in the Good Old Days," "Wonderful One" and "Keep Your Eye On the Girlie You Love/Somebody Stole My Gal Medley." Beautifully arranged, flawlessly, expressively harmonized - "Tribute" is a gem!

After a most successful ten years of performance and competition appearances, Chordiac Arrest decided that it was time for an anniversary album. During their first ten years they finished four times in the International Finals top ten, twice at number five. Their targets of humorous opportunity have widened to include airline travel, terrible food ("That's The Worst Jello I've Had Since Last July"), morticians, plumbers, transvestites, and music ("Lady of Spain I Abhor You") in addition the medical/doctor gags for which they are renown. Several of the tunes were recorded directly from the International Contest stage when the audience isn't merely enthusiastic, they go nuts! Songlist

The Classic Collection has honed its skills even more since they were named SPEBSQSA Quartet Gold medalists on a hot summer night in Pittsburgh in 1982. The Denver quartet has steadily expanded its repertoire by keeping alive the memories of outstanding past champions, as well as including new arrangements in "Signature," their 5th excellent album. They lend their own distinctive interpretations to such Suntones' (1961) standbys as the "West Side Story" and "Finian's Rainbow" medleys, "Jezebel" and "Sweet Georgia Brown;" the Four Renegades' (1965) "Makin' Whoopee," the Buffalo Bills' (1950) "Sam, You Made the Pants Too Long" and "Waitin' For The Evenin' Train." Also included in the 9 songs are some of their own winners, "I'll Be Seeing You" and "Hard Hearted Hannah." Rich harmonies and great material, sung with feeling and personality by four great champions. What could be better?

What we have here is a classic collection of Barbershop tunes by, well, The Classic Collection, 1982 SPEBSQSA quartet Gold medalists from Denver. These four champions haven't lost a beat since that glorious night in Pittsburgh--this is one of five top-drawer recordings they've produced?the trademark rock-solid bass and baritone parts with the sweet leads soaring above haven't changed. Butter-smooth harmonies and nostalgia are the CC's stock in trade, and nobody does it better! 12 well-chosen songs, from the sweetly romantic "Moonlight Becomes You," "Miss You," "If You Were The Only Girl In The World," "If I Could Be With You," "My Blue Heaven" and "Remembering Time" to the upbeat flapper anthems "Bill Bailey Won't You Please Come Home," "Toot, Toot, Tootsie," "I'm A Ding Dong Daddy From Dumas" and "With Plenty of Money and You." We also enjoyed the silly "Goofus." Whether they're tugging our heartstrings or tickling our funny bone, the Classic Collection is all about great entertainment!

This enhanced CD receives udos for excellent entertainment value. Countdown, from the Far Western District, have exercised their imaginations to the fullest, providing not only a baker's dozen of enjoyable barbershop tunes, but a veritable extravaganza of amusement. Take the Countdown quiz, watch a video, or play our personal favorite, "Whack A Barbershopper!" This is not to discount the quartet's vocal abilities, whether playing it straight ("Roses of Picardy," "There Used To Be A Ballpark," "Turn Around"), or light-hearted ("Mobile," "18 Wheels On A Big Rig"). Ingenious. Songlist

You Don't! You Won't!
Georgia May
Crying
Little Patch Of Heaven
59th Street Bridge Song
Back In Business
Daddy's Little Girl
Roll Jordan, Rollr
Mean to Me
Mobile
Better Than I
Country Dances
...And Lydia

Dealer's Choice were SPEBSQSA Champions in 1973, and maintained their following and reputation through a long and prodigious career. This four-CD "Anthology" traces their evolution as barbershoppers supreme. The first CD's focus is on the traditional, with "At The Jazz Band Ball," "Who'll Take My Place When I'm Gone" and "Old Fashioned Mother of Mine" some examples. Subsequent recordings featured more vocal jazz and pop, such as "What'll I Do" and "Didn't We," along with the Beach Boys and Simon and Garfunkel medleys. The Dealer's Choice arrangement of the "Lord's Prayer," from the second CD, is especially grand. This group combined exceptional tone, state-of-the-art arrangements and performance flair - legendary! Songlist

Listen to "Chloe" and "If You Could Read My Mind"in Real Audio.

At the Mid-Winter Convention in Jacksonville, Florida, Fatherly Advice (Tenor Dan Tangarone, Lead Dick Bek, Baritone Bill Thurman and Bass Burt Staffen) won the gold and became the 1996 SPEBSQSA International Senior Champions. FA takes a firm grip on the heartstrings at song one, "I'm Gonna Sit Right Down..." and the gentle tugging goes on until song 27, "We All Fall," is over. There Never was a Gang like theirs, all Dear Hearts and Gentle People with a Shine on Their Shoes, who sang "Heart of My Heart." And they sing it with such sweet harmony, you know it was true. A real feel-good CD! Songlist

This is the third recording of Gospel/Barbershop quartet Four His Glory, and they bring us 12 uplifting, tight-harmonied old and new hymns to Jesus. In the title track, the 4 tell us, 'But if all I've done in the time we've shared, is to turn your eyes on me, then I've failed... there's someone else I want you to see.' Their message is clear and consistent throughout, as endearing and sweet as their old-time Barbershop harmonies! Songlist

Members of the Four Statesmen began quartet singing as early as 1945. The first International appearance was in 1964, where they placed twelfth. Following their win in 1967, they kept singing, with appearances on the Mike Douglas TV show and tours that took them as far abroad as England, France and Italy. The 27 songs on this recording include the sentimental - "Try To Remember," "Climb Every Mountain" and " I Miss You Most Of All" are just a few - as well as the lighthearted: "I've Got The Time, I've Got The Place, But It's Hard To Get The Girl" and "Crazy Bones Skeleton Ball." Our favorite: "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head," with a beautifully-harmonized refrain. Songlist

Having won the 1996 Collegiate and 1999 Dixie District Championships, the clamor for a recorded set has been strong. Seeing the Four live at National, it seemed certain they would place top ten. Well, there's always next year. Their robust and hearty delivery is matched by the fullness of their tone. "Bright Was The Night" begins delicately, before swelling into a dramatic coda; "It Is Well" follows a similar strategy. The gentle sway of "Barbershop Style," "Ain't Misbehavin'" and "After You'ßre Gone" are good-natured remembrances of another era. The most stirring arrangement is the gospel flavored "This Little Light Of Mine." Songlist

They're Back! Get the wimmin and chillun off the streets. Gather them by the old CD player and enjoy! They alternate between simply beautiful songs and humor which frequently takes one by surprise because the singing is so good just before they go off the deep end. There are a couple of updated old Smothers Brothers gags, "Streets of Laredo" and "I Never Will Marry." There are a couple of wacky intros to otherwise wonderful songs. They spooflicate Steven Foster unmercifully in an verbal introduction and then sing a beautiful "Old Folks At Home." A melodic "I Don't Know Why" starts so beautifully and then...the vocal horns... Songlist

Just how good do you have to be before you can be a barbershop comedy group? Really, really, good! Winning medalists at the International Finals in 1999 (first place), 1998 (fourth place) and 1997 (second place) are some of their triumphs but their greatest triumph will be the pure enjoyment you will have each time you hear this cross between wonderful singers and class clowns! For pure goofiness try "Herman and Sally," Harmony Lanes/Bowling Shoes," "Big Time Gutter Ball" or the atrocious "Hindustan," a live recording. Then there is "This Little Light of Mine" with its ballistic ending or the beautiful "Someone's Rockin' My Dreamboat." Where does it all end? ...at the last song, of course! Songlist

It isn't just perfect vowel matching or ringing chords that set these Champions apart. They pick joyous arrangements which make for fascinating listening and always seem to have some completely unusual element added into their non competition repertoire. For example, when David Wright arranged Muskrat Ramble for The Gang he came back with the lyric score with some sections written for a Dixieland band. The Gas House Gang ran with it, imitating a trumpet, a trombone, a clarinet and an upright bass, with some percussion thrown in. You must hear the wonderful arrangement of "Above My Head, I Hear Music In The Air" for it moves the spirit just as much as the Southern Sons' version does. We haven't time to describe each of the fourteen tunes on this recording but you should hear them.

Listen to "Brother, Can You Spare A Dime" or "Muskrat Ramble"

Two years in the making!!! Perfection achieved!! Enough hyperbole already, you think to yourself? Not a chance...where's the thesaurus. Ok, we'll rein in our enthusiasm and resort to merely telling you about a Christmas album sung by one of the greatest barbershop quartets of our time. On this recording we listen to a quartet who achieves the tightest harmonies humanly possible apply those talents to traditional Christmas music. It's funny but as they aren't specifically singing barbershop chording, it is only occasionally that we remember just what tradition this fabulous singing springs from. Touches of jazz, elements of gospel reverence, and moments of almost operatic virtuosity abound throughout and all come together with vocal percussionist Jeff Thatcher of Rockapella adding his talents on "Go Tell It On the Mountain." We were also struck momentarily speechless when we found that, for the first time in quite a while, we actually enjoyed "The Little Drummer Boy" once more. The Gang rescues that song from the Christmas cul-de-sac of fruit-cake jokes with a beautiful rendition. What a tenor lead! You'll hear a fabulous Gregorianesque intro to "O Come Emanuel" which sounds as though it is emerging from a heavenly cathedral. The song list meanders through all of the Christmas spirit to arrive at the title track, "Some Children See Him." This is a wonderful message on which to leave, each child who sees Christ, sees Him in their own image...

Listen to "Go Tell It To The Mountain" and "The Little Drummer Boy" in Real Audio.

The Gang appeared on the International Medalist road to supremacy in 1991 with a third place medal. In 1992 they were second which rather prepared the world for their Calgary appearance in 1993, at which they were awarded the grand accolade. These wonderful singers also have a broad sense of humor which will send any classical music aficionado into guffaws as they parody Mozart in "Eine Kleine Not Musik." This reviewer has played that tune on a radio show several times and always received more calls for information about it than any other single piece of music! This is not, however, just a comedic group but recognized as one of the best singing groups in the world.

Listen to "Eine Kleine Not Musik" in Real Audio.

Just before beginning their ascension to international acclaim the Gang released this recording of twelve songs which are of a great variety. You keep running into unexpected little embellishments on the pure barbershop songs such as the brief intimation of calliope or the bell-like chord inthe "Bowery Medley." Then there is the ringing traditional close harmony of "So Long, Mother," the sweet beauty of "When I Look In Your Eyes," the humorous "My Old Man" (of Smothers Brothers fame) and the fabulous enunciation on "The Chemical Elements." There's gospel, a popular sound on "Sixteen Tons" and the "William Tell Overture" is in the spirit of their later Mozart spoof. Great!

Listen to "Bowery Medley" and "The Chemical Elements" in Real Audio.

Though each of the singers who made up the quartet had prior contest singing experience, it is a fact they went from a brand new group to International Champions in just nineteen months. One week after winning they spent three weeks in Viet Nam entertaining the troops for the USO. Part of their vocal appeal, for this reviewer, is the fact that the lead singer, Drayton Justus, had a higher voice than most barbershop leads and the mix of voices has a sweet bell like quality when they hit those ringing chords. They used the finest arrangers of the day such as Renee Craig, Al Rehkop (the tenor of the group), Mo Rector, Greg Backwell, Joni Bescos and Jarmela Speta to whom they pay tribute in song. You'll find twenty-six songs amassing seventy minutes of marvelous music on this recording. Songlist

Tenor Gary Harding, his brother Jack Harding, Baritone, Milt Christensen, lead, and the inimitable Mike Senter, bass, The Golden Staters; won the Gold medal in Atlanta in July, 1972. GS' road to the top included 4th place in Chicago in 1966, fifth in 1967, third in 1968, and a Silver Medal in St. Louis in 1969. An injury to their lead kept them out of competition in 1970, another third in 1971, then finally the gold. 25 classic barbershop songs fill this delightful cd, some of our favorites are, "Jean," "Draft Dodger Rag," "Mary Poppins Medley," "Hello, Dolly," and "Give My Regards To Broadway." All good stuff, and frankly, it's impossible to listen to this CD and be in a bad mood! Songlist

Experience, faith and steadfastness all come to mind when one tries to describe Good News! Tenor Jerry Fairchild, a member of the Sidewinders who won the Gold in 1964, has been barbershopping for 42 years and lives in Redlands, CA. Lead Joe Mazzone sang with The Regents who won in 1974, has been b-shopping for 29 years, and lives in Punta Gorda, Florida. baritone Dale Deiser has been quartetting for 47 years and sang with Mark IV, 1969 champs; he lives in San Antonio, TX. Bass Mo rector has 2 Gold Medals, 1958 with the Gay Notes and 1969 with Mark IV. How do they rehearse and record with so much distance between them? Love of the Lord and barbershop harmony, and a desire to give back gets them to travel nearly 10,000 miles for each rehearsal and recording session. No surprises in their song selection, "I Will Sing The Wondrous Story," the first song on Vol. I & II, sums up what Good News! is all about, sweet, deep harmony and feeling, and singing the Lord's praises. Some of our favorites: "Amazing Grace," "In The Garden," "Precious Lord," and "Ain't-A-That Good News." It surely is! Songlist

This second CD comprises of the original Vols 3 and 4 recordings. There is also a matching songbook with these arrangements plus parts tapes are also available Songlist

Gotcha represents the next generation of barbershop, placing twelfth in the 1999 Championships in Anaheim. Hailing from Southern California, these fresh-faced lads are known for their intense live performances, galvanizing audiences with their bold and energetic delivery. Their repertoire is strong on barbershop stalwarts such as "For Me and My Gal," "My Honey's Lovin' Arms" and "Jazz Me Blues." The four obviously relish an opportunity for heavy lifting, deploying all their tools of the trade with challenging tags on songs such as "Anytime Medley" and "Hello Mary Lou," the latter arranged by David Wright, musical director and arranger for Ambiance. Indeed, the company that Gotcha is keeping indicates a fine barbershop sensibility, and a connoisseur's taste - listen to their performance of Boston Common's "I'm Sitting On Top Of The World." Songlist

Listen to I'm Sitting on Top of the World in Real Audio

This is two very big slices of classic Barbershop, a 2-CD set of Grandma's Boys from 1968 to 1986, including songs from their 1979 Gold Medal Year as SPEBSQSA International Quartet Champions. There are 23 songs on Disc 1, which are the remastered lps "Tonight" and "I Had A Dream Dear," and 15 on Disc II, which is the remastered lp, "Grandma's Boys III. There's a large liner notes booklet with photos of the group in costume and with their trophies, interviews and a history of the group. Favorites? "Tonight" from West Side Story, "Before The Parade Passes By," "Firefly," "Fascinatin' Rhythm," "Jazz Baby," "The Way We Were," "You've Gotta Be A Football Hero," "William Tell Overture," "If They String Me Up, I'll Never Live It Down," "A Song For Mary" and the title tune, but we could easily pick a dozen others. These young guys sing prize-winning harmonies with joy and spirit, and they went from an unknown group in college to the pinnacle of Barbershop fame. They're obviously having big fun singing to us, and what we especially love about Barbershop is the fact that it's fun music!

Listen to "When the Toy Soldiers March on Parade" in Real Audio.

First formed as a Barbershop quartet in 1972 from members of other groups, the HE sounded great right away, a fact that became clear to all with their 1975 Gold medals as International Quartet Champions. Performing and recording actively for the next 21 years, they retired in 1993, only to return to the circuit in 1996. "Golden" was recorded in the 34th year of the group's existence, and it is dedicated to songwriter Mosie Lister, now in his 80s, who has been writing classic Gospel tunes for over 50 years. 7 of the 11 songs are Mosie's, and not coincidentally, favorites: "'Til the Storm Passes By," "I'm Feeling Fine," "Where No One Stands Alone," "The King and I," "How Long Has It Been," "Still Feelin' Fine" and "I'm Bound for the Kingdom." Other favorites are the foot-tapper, "God Sits On High" and "Step Into the Water." All songs are fairly heavily accompanied, but the highlight of all of them is the rich, heartfelt harmonies of this legendary group. When that joyous Gospel stuff just keeps on flowing, why retire?

The H.E. were International Champions in 1975. This double CD, comprising "That's Entertainment" and "Control Yourself," contains a smorgasbord of the best Broadway and show tunes, with some traditional barbershop as well. Many of the cuts on "That's Entertainment" are in fact medleys, organized around the original performer that popularized the songs, e.g. Astaire, Jolson and Durante, with a preface by the group themselves discussing the relative merits of each. In general, good-natured banter prevails, and the asides allow the listener to feel as if they were enjoying a live show! Of course, a Championship Group also possesses impeccable technique and originality, displayed through the uniqueness of their arrangements. The Happiness Emporium has much to smile about on that score, and so will you after you hear them! Songlist

Bob Dowma, Rod Johnson, Bob Spong and Jim Foy got together in 1972, and 2 1/2 years later they were Barbershop Champions. Since then they've been dealing in happiness, singing with it and creating it in their audiences. This is a compilation of 2 cds (with a groovy flashing cover), "Right from the Start" and "Rise 'N Shine," and there's a lot of happy nostalgia here. "Bring Back Those Good Old Days" sums it up, but they're all good: "What I Ask For My Little Boy," "Back In 1910," "If I Were A Rich Man," "It's A Good Day." 23 feel-good songs in all - a great deal from four merchants of happiness! Songlist

Dedicated to longtime arranger Ed Waesche, who is an integral part of the Emporium's style, "That's Life" delivers a big bang for the buck! Full of "sets," such as the School Days, Camping, and Child, as well as a "Showboat Medley," "Broadway Intro" and many more, these 1975 gold medalists keep it coming! Their sound anticipates the contemporary arranging style that would be popularized by today's luminaries ("Why Do They Take The Night Boat To Albany"), while retaining the comfortable stability of the familiar. Songlist

Review pending.

Legends in the Barbershop community, "Beneath The Cross II" was produced in the 32nd year of HEºs singing together as a quartet. Enjoying each otherºs company and the "Joy of singing songs of our Lord" has kept Bob, Rod, Rick and Jim blessed with good health. Similar to the singers, these 12 songs are rich in harmony, deep spirituality and just plain good feeling! Some favorites: "Gonna Build A Mountain," "Will There Be Any Stars In My Crown," "The First Baseball Game," "Shall We Gather At The River," "He's Gonna See You Through," the rousing "An Old Convention Song," and the final cut, "This Train/Saints Medley." Beautifully sung, inspiring stuff from one of Barbershop's Best!

Listen to "Shall We Gather At The River" in RealAudio.

We recently had the pleasure of watching these four guys, in perfect "Adams Family" costume and character, walk away with the '06 Harmony Sweeps Finals in San Rafael, CA, also winning Audience Favorite—alternately making us laugh and breaking our hearts . This barbershop quartet from Los Angeles is having big fun, singing their version of Roto-Rooter's famous jingle dressed as plumbers on a national tv spot, and incredibly cutting a commercial to promote Xbox's "Tao Feng: Fist of the Lotus." 13 tight-harmonied songs, our favorites are live cuts "Blackbird Parody" (totally hilarious) and "When I Look In Your Eyes" (which brought down the house at the Finals) and "I'm Gonna Live 'Til I Die," which closed their set and followed the "Adams" theme. Some gospel cuts, "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" and "Turn the Radio On," Harry Belafonte's poignant "Turn Around," "If I Were You I'd Fall In Love With Me," and the bonus "Roto Rooter" ad—it's all good stuff from the surprising '06 National Champs!

Listen to "When I Look In Your Eyes" in Real Audio.

As the 1976 SPEBSQSA International Champions, The Innsiders climaxed a storied career which included several top 10 finishes in the competition. This quartet's love of singing and their steadfast devotion to their art along with a strong work ethic and lots of talent took them to greatness. This compilation of their master works has been released under the watchful eyes of former member Brian Beck, so you are sure to hear the best that The Innsiders had to offer. Some of our favorite songs include "Bridge Over Troubled Water," "Ghost Riders In The Sky," and "Till We Meet Again." Twenty-five tracks. Songlist

1987 International Champions, the Rivals placed sixth in 1984, third in '85, and moved to second before topping the charts, so to speak. That they were the second youngest quartet ever to win the championship would seem to imply a lack of experience, but when they won they had 45 years barbershop singing among the four. Each of the Interstate Rivals went on to win another quartet championship, Joe Connelly with Keepsake in l992, Kipp Buckner with the Gas House Gang in 1993, while Jay Hawkins and Paul Gilman were half of the 1995 Champions, Marquis. What a history! In their selection of a dozen songs they stick to beautiful barbershop singing only hamming it up a bit on "Cecilia." Songlist

These Jokers not only chased a dream they succeeded! You'll share that success on this recording which extends the variety of arrangements beyond the expected perfect barbershopping. We suggest that the sax break added to the middle of "Afterglow" is nothing short of genius. Be sure to catch the ringing, extended and modulated final chord of "Taint No Sin (To Dance Around In Your Bones)." Then there is a modified version of the Andrews Sisters big hit "Don't Sit Under The Apple Tree." (ha ha) Three very clever hits on a drum set punctuate one breath in Steve Allen's "South Rampart Street Band," another great David Wright arrangement. The finale is an inspiring version of "The Impossible Dream" and then you remember "The Man Of La Mancha." Songlist

The Jokers followed in the footsteps of the Gas House Gang in achieving the highest award in the barbershop world. In 1992 they were fifth, 1993 second and 1994 International Champions. They did it with perfection of style and beautiful voices. This recording is a fine reminder of their winning repertoire at that time. In true traditional form you'll hear "Zing! Went The Strings Of My Heart," "The Original Dixieland One-Step," "Stars Fell On Alabama," "Georgia On My Mind," "My Buddy" and "It Is Well With My Soul." There are modern "traditional" songs such as David Wright's "Right From The Start She Had My Heart." All in all this is a straight ahead extremely high caliber barbershop recording. Songlist

Hailing from Florida, the much-acclaimed Keepsake are an exciting addition to our catalog. They have dedicated this recording to Charles "Bub" Thomas of Walt Disney World's "Dapper Dans," and a marvelous tribute it is. Winners of the 1992 Quartet Championships, the group's stellar sound is sublime. The group's use of dynamics, the arrangements (by a who's-who of arranging talent) and their choice of material-most impressive all. Their exquisite "Lost In the Stars" (written by Kurt Weill and Maxwell Anderson) is a fondant of perfect notes. "Blue Velvet" is similarly rendered and has a signature coda; speaking of which, the ending of "How Deep Is the Ocean" is a show-stopper. The traditional barbershop fare, including "Make 'Em Laugh," "I Love a Piano" and "The Entertainer," is of course flawless. Don't miss this one! Songlist

Listen to The Entertainer in Real Audio

The redoubtable Keepsake have consistently impressed with their musical fluency and extensive barbershop vocabulary. The richness of the voices melting into and enveloping the notes, shaping them into the perfect creamy consistency-the satisfaction of a fully-realized barbershop chord! "Once Upon A Time" includes many classic tunes such as "Roses of Picardy," "Sweet Georgia Brown," and a dynamite "Ring Out the Bells in Dixieland," making it their most traditional recording to our ears. However, the melody of "Easy Street," with it's flatted non-diatonic "blue" notes, (heralding the fusion of jazz and blues that would become doo-wop) is fresh, and along with "Chances Are" and "I Only Have Eyes For You," gives an added dimension that is of equal enjoyment. Songlist

Listen to Rain in Real Audio

Barbershop quartet The Management outdid themselves on cleverness with this one! Organized around the menu/restaurant theme, these staples of the barbershop genre are listed as "Appetizers," "Combination Platters" (that would be a medley, folks) and "Manager's Specials" ("you'll only find them here"), and so forth. With arranging input from "chefs' Joe Liles, Walter Latzko and others, this is a light-hearted excursion that will particularly satisfy the traditional listener, though the Management's versions of "And So It Goes" and "Largo Al Factotum" (by classical composer Rossini) are an entertaining change of pace. Songlist

Since discovering their sound at the University of Maine (at Orono) in 1985, these singers have been stalwarts of the North Eastern Division, singing together (with a few personnel changes) since that time. The recording starts with the familiar sound of ringing chords on "Dew Dew Dewy Day," jazzes it up with "Chattanooga Choo Choo," continues to change tempo until a gorgeous version of "Lullaby" and then takes off with "A South African Trilogy" (Ladysmith would be proud!). From this departure we are eased back almost to tradition with "Puttin' On The Ritz" and a long "Mill's Brothers Medley" before going off the deep end with the finale, an instrumentally accompanied electric blues, "Baritone Blues." Songlist

Many personnel changes, some of them brought about by Uncle Sam, brought together the talented foursome that won the Gold in St. Louis in 1969. Mo Rector, fine bass of the '58 champs, the Gaynotes, baritone Dale Deiser, lead Alan Koberstein, and tenor Franklin Spears were years ahead of their time in finesse, warm rich sound, and overall musicianship. They only stayed together until 1974, pleasing audiences with their music and gracious personalities; but we are left with this masterpiece cd. Pure entertainment, from "Anything Goes" and "Daddy Sang Bass," to "Every Step Of The Way" and "If You Love Me, Really Love Me." 22 songs in all, a generous helping of the stuff barbershop is made of, the top of the Mark! Songlist

1995 International Champions, Marquis begins their recording with the final song from their winning competition, "With A Song In My Heart," arranged by Jim Clancy. And so these winners share with us the Nat King Cole hit, "When I Fall In Love," Walter Latzko's arrangement of "Give Me The Simple Life," Bill Mitchell's arrangement of "Never Never Land," their opening tune from the final round of the gold medal pursuit "I Found A Million Dollar Baby In A Five-And-Ten Cent Store" and Greg Volk's jazz arrangement of "Paper Moon." This reviewer thanks Marquis not only for marvelous singing but their willingness to share the credit with coaches and arrangers in great notes! Songlist

Should you enjoy a trivial pursuit type fact with which to awe your friends, try this one out on avid barbershoppers. In the SPEBSQSA International Competitions, who has medalled with the most quartets? Well, one of the five singers to date who share the record is Jay Hawkins, the bass singer of Marquis. He has won medals with three different quartets. So when you listen to the ringing chords of this award winning group on such tunes as "Lazy River," "Every Day Of My Life," "I'll Be Seeing You" or the doo-wopish arrangement of "With Plenty Of Money And You," remember that you're listening to one of the best! Songlist

The new generation of barbershop is here as Metropolis, winners of the 1998 Harmony Sweepstakes, deliver their first CD. The group has assembled a collection of familiar songs from different eras, such as "Our Day Will Come," "Love Me Tender" and "Honey's Lovin' Arms," all "Metropolized," the definition of which is as follows: close, rich harmonies, performed with such flawless intonation and dynamics, that the chords surge as if they will take flight and soar right out of the CD player! The arrangements have just enough individuality to keep the proceedings lively, and provide the challenge this group requires without becoming arcane. In other words, this CD will be prized by the traditional barbershop listener, and appreciated by those who typically prefer other styles. Included is "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch," in honor of Christmas season, with its wry spoken interlude, and "Yakko's World," which some may remember from their winning Sweepstakes performance.Songlist

Michigan Jake's first recording is a hotly anticipated commodity. Beginning with their debut in 1996 (where they placed tenth at Salt Lake), the quartet, from the Cardinal District, has steadily gained traction, pausing temporarily at the number 2 spot in Kansas City. They are odds-on to go all the way next year. Many of their arrangements are by the group's own Mark Hale, Director of the Masters of Harmony Chorus, which says a lot about the caliber of Michigan Jake. They favor the standards of the great American songwriters Kern, Berlin et al, and their sound evokes that elegant and graceful era in style and flavor. Songs such as "Tea For Two" and "Imagination" have an easy swing feel and unaffected delivery that entrances with subtle charm, basking the ear with bright warmth. "Sweet Lorraine" smiles with courtly delight, emphasizing its point with triplets, and sliding into an exuberant finish. Michigan Jake harkens back to the glory days of barbershop while adding a modern freshness and vitality. Songlist

Listen to All The Pretty Horses in Real Audio

Stepping into the time machine, we travel back to 1949, when the Mid States Four brand of zany, frequently accompanied barbershop was charming audiences everywhere! Culled from old reel-to-reels, cassettes and albums, this reminiscence is authentic, with many live performances and peals of laughter in evidence, typical of which is "Ayuh, Ayuh," a quasi Polynesian number! Original arrangements ("I Want A Full Time Job") and comic delivery make this CD one of the most entertaining choices, though they were fine singers too. Songlist

Millennium is a collegiate barbershop group consisting of Kalin Tapp, bariton, Sydney Libsack, bass, Soren Wohlers, lead, and Eric Woodward, tenor, but they are not just any collegiate barbershop group-they're 2000 International Collegiate Champions! The four are all students at Northwest Missouri State University, where in 1998 freshmen Sydney and Soren auditioned for the Celebration Show Choir and joined Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia with Kalin and Eric as their fraternity "pops." The four began building a repertoire, calling themselves "Millennium" and performing such songs as "Tonight, Tonight" and "No More Sorrow" on Celebration tours. By Spring Show of 1999 their performance of "Rhythm of Life" had the audience out of their seats. They competed in SPEBSQSA's international competitition in 1999 with "Last Night on the Back Porch" and "Bright Was the Night," winning third place. Then came the 2000 competition, and a stunning performance of "The Little Boy" and "I'm Beginning to See the Light." The judges' verdict was announced with a roar from the crowd: the aptly-named Millennium was International Champs! 11 songs, including a wonderful "Hooked on a Feeling," "60-Minute Man," "Jezebel," "Lost," "Charlie Anyboy," "O Holy Night"-these are all great, and it's clear the judges made their decision based on talent, not because of Millennium's name! Songlist

From the other "down under" here is an excellent recording from the Wellington, New Zealand based quartet Musical Island Boys who are a certifiable barbershop boy band phenomenon. Winners of many N.Z. awards the quartet won top honors and gold medals in Indianapolis (06) in the Barbershop Society International College Championship, the first non US quartet to win in the history of the competition. And it's easy to see why these lads have done so well when you hear their excellent renditions of the arrangements of Ed Waesche, David Wright and Joe Liles. All four singers are of Pacific Islander heritage including Samoan and Maori and perhaps it's the great tradition of singing in their cultures that give them the special touch they so clearly demonstrate. Recommended.

Listen to "Pokarekare Ana" in Real Audio.

This unique quartet has been making history for many years now. As members of the well-known Ditchfield Family Singers this father - Stephen Ditchfield - and his sons also perform as a barbershop quartet. Even when the boys were very young they started winning singing competitions and this recording marks their comeback as grown men who still retain their love of close harmony singing. Lots a great music here including some barbershop classics along with a variety of popular music from the ‘30’s, ‘40’s, and ‘50’s.

If you're not comfortable laughing out loud, maybe you should pass this one by. I guess you could always shut your ears during the gags and just listen to these 1985 International Champions sing. You see, they're entertainers. The award winning singing is the basis of the act but the goal of these four is to bring joy and laughter into the world. Along the way to this goal they become the Marx Brothers and their gags are just as goofy as the originals. Spoofing the members of Star Trek will bring delight to Trekkies and Anti-Trakkies alike. It is a double CD release. The first disc is a reissue of their two albums. The second is a series of surprises from live performances. Though it sounds as though it was recorded from the audience, a piece simply called "Trombones" features all the members on vocal trombone and is wonderful in spite of the fidelity. As we love both laughter and song, this gets our enthusiastic recomendation!

Let us have Dr. Greg Lyne tell you about the voices of Nightlife. "Brett (Littlefield) possesses one of the most resonant, rich bass voices you're ever going to hear, which contributes to the depth so characteristic of the Nightlife sound. Jeff's (Baker) voice brings the glue and dignity to the composite sound that all outstanding quartets seek. John's (Sasine) voice is unusually free and agile, which is also the key to the quartet's individually of expression. Finally, it is the color and presence found in Rob's tenor voice that contributes the sheen to this foursome's distinctive sound." True, true. Now listen to "Creole Cutie," "Route 66," "Beautiful Dreamer" (beautiful!), "Smile" and another eleven songs. Celebrate their Championship with them! Songlist

Listen to Beautiful Dreamer in Real Audio

Southern California celebrated when Nightlife won the International Quartet Championship in 1996. Not only did they win the gold medal as a quartet but they also won a gold medal as members of the winning barbershop chorus on the same day (Masters Of Harmony), only the second foursome in barbershopping history to do so. Songs at Twilight presents an award winning style on familiar barbershop songs such as "If There's Anybody Here From Out Of Town" and "Love's Old Sweet Song," along with tunes less often sung in contests. The grand finale of the recording is an eleven minute "Nat King Cole Medley" which includes excerpts of "Mona Lisa," Nature Boy," "A Blossom Fell," "Unforgettable," "Too Young" and "Answer Me, My Love." It's fabulous! Songlist

These four fresh-faced, talented young men from (of course) Orange County, CA, inspired by such artists as Michael Buble, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, are reincarnating some of the great swing music songs and rock 'n roll classic hits, with the intention of taking barbershop harmony back to where it started over a century ago, into pop culture. Cutting their barbershop chops as International Chorus gold medalists with the Masters of Harmony as well as section leaders with the local Westminster Chorus, OC Times has been rising like winged cream in International Quartet competition, starting the 2004 contest ranked 46th and rising to 18th at the finish. In 2005 they took the stage at the LDS Conference Center in Salt Lake City, and delivered 6 songs to earn themselves a 5th place International medal. These six songs, "Come Fly With Me," "Honey, Open That Door/Hey Good Lookin' (medley)," "Love Me," "Good Luck Charm," "Put Your Head on My Shoulder" and "Save the Last Dance/Sway (medley)" are live from all three rounds of their award-winning performance. As a bonus, we get to hear the guys as part of the Westminster Chorus (which placed 9th in 2004 and are the youngest chorus every to compete on the international stage) singing "The Way You Look Tonight" and "South Rampart Street Parade." Ringing harmonies, great arrangements, strong leads—the SLC audience loves OC Times, and so do we!

Listen to "Good Luck Charm" in Real Audio.

Fred King and Jim Grant met first in 1951, in high school, where they discovered a mutual love of harmony and began singing together. They joined SPEBSQSA a couple of years later and after seven years and a couple of personnel changes, met their permanent coach, Bob Loose. After working with him for only three months they won the Mid-Atlantic District Championship. They placed eighth in their first International Championship in 1959 but didn't reach the finals again until 1965. In 1969 they finally medalled and reached the pinnacle, that of International Champions in 1970, after twelve years of work. This retrospective recording has all the pops and scratches of the vinyl recordings eliminated. Allow yourself the pleasure of hearing one of the historic groups who reached the summit. Songlist

In 1950 a barbershop quartet, as yet unnamed, was to do a show in Wichita and the SPEBSQSA chapter president needed a name for the program, so he called the group "The Orphans." The name grew on them, and in 1954 they won District and Prelim contests, and then they were off to the Big Dance in Washington, DC. With the help of a Miracle Doctor, lead singer Bob Groom overcame the loss of his voice on their last set, and The Orphans, the pride of Wichita, were adopted?as International Champs! They wore the Gold with pride, singing nearly 60 shows a year all over the country. This CD is a generous, 23-song "best-of" compilation, and we can tell from the first strains of "Hello Song" that these guys are masters of the ringing chord. Some favorites: "The Bell In The Lighthouse," "On The Road To Mandalay," "Sitting On Top of the World," the classic "Sweetheart Of Sigma Chi," "Cuddle Up A Little Closer," "Somebody Stole My Gal," "The Whiffenpoof Song," "Twelfth Street Rag," "Stephen Foster Medley," "Side By Side," "Farewell Song" and "Wait 'Til The Sun Shines Nellie," live from an appearance on the Ed Sullivan Show. What each of these songs has in common is the rich, fresh, upbeat sound of these great champions.

2002 Harmony Sweeps winners Perfect Gentlemen's 3rd CD has 20 songs; some classic barbershop like "Blue Skies," "The Good Old Days" and "Diane," and some non-traditional stuff like "Gimme Some Skin," "Ukelele Lady," "If Ever I Would Leave You," "Java Jive," "Beware My Foolish Heart" and "Room Service," Some light guitar, piano and ukelele (but the emphasis remains on the rich harmonies) on songs like "Java Jive," "Gimme Some Skin" and "Room Service," which we heard when they hosted the Sweeps Finals, where their sound reminded us of groups like the Hi-Lo's and 4 Freshmen. The Gents can make a barbershop chord ring with the best of them, but we like their tendency to try different, even accompanied stuff, like jive, swing and 50s jazz/pop. These guys are funny, versatile, flat-out great entertainers!

Listen to "Word Salad" and "Room Service" in Real Audio.

Besides the expected great vocal harmony, there's some serious silliness on this CD. Lead Dan Jordan, tenor Tim Reeder, baritone Mike Economou and bass Jim Campbell take very little seriously, including barbershop, and that's what makes "In Style' a hoot! Take "Salute to the 20th Century" for instance. (Dramatic drumroll) "Ladies and Gents, the PG modestly present the entire 20th Century of popular music !" And they do it, singing "Shine On Harvest Moon" as Barbershop, Blues, Big Band, Doo-Wop,, Bluegrass, Disco and Rap - a tour-de-force that helped the PG take 2nd at this year's Harmony Sweepstakes. Standouts: "Style", "Turn Your Radio On" and "I Like Bananas". Very tasty.

Listen to "I Like Bananas" or "Style"

Society Champions in 1948, the Pittsburghers were trailblazers. They were the first to perform written arrangements and a key change in a contest. Featured on this album are anecdotes as told by one of the original members, Tom Palamone. It is replete with classic barbershop songs like "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" and "Oh, What a Gal Was Mary." Most of them were written in the 1920's and '30's, and are liberally laced with double entendres. "You Can Never Be Too Sure About the Girls" is a charming example. Though the sound quality is not ideal, the expert handling of the material - and its merit as a keepsake of the era - is indisputable.

Folks, barbershop singing doesn't get any better than this. At least it didn't in the SPEBSQSA International Finals of 2000 when Tony De Rosa, Joe Connelly, Kevin Miles, and Gary Lewis were awarded the first place Gold Medals! For those of us who were unable to attend the performance their recording is here! You'll be treated to a program of pure barbershop, "It's Only A Paper Moon," "Dayton OH," "Just In Time," right on up to a stunning finale of their award winning "Auld Lang Syne." Just ask yourself, "What's more precious than gold?" Obviously, the answer can only be...Platinum!

Listen to "It's Only A Paper Moon" or "Auld Lang Syne"

Coming in second at Anaheim, ?99 - Platinum's first year in competition - they generated excitement before the first note was sung, by virtue of their pedigree. The lead, Joe Connelly, and the baritone, Tony DeRosa, were both in the mighty Keepsake, 1992's Championship Quartet. Well, that said, we expected state-of-the-art arrangements, coupled with sizzling performances, and "Be Our Guest" meets the challenge. Most of the material is outside the formal barbershop idiom, with great songs, such as "The Way You Look Tonight," "I'm Beginning To See The Light" and "What'll I Do" representative selections. The tags, of course, are stunning, with special mention going to "Who Will Buy" and the title track - what lung power. If it's subtleties you prefer, "Memories Of You," written by Eubie Blake, has harmonies layered so closely that the voices move as one - complete symmetry. The note placement and phrasing of the "Jimmy Webb Medley," arranged by Jim Clancy, allows the tonality of each voice within the harmony to blossom fully into a resplendent bouquet.

Listen to Be Our Guest in Real Audio

A "power play" is a hockey term, denoting impact, requiring teamwork, and resulting in an advantage. The first CD, recorded in 1992, by this Michigan quartet certainly embodies these qualities! Ranking as high as seventh in competition, their sound is a pleasure indeed, beginning with the superior tone of lead Michael Slamka. Though a fine ensemble singer, his velvety timbre has a personality that is quite an asset - heard best on "Anytime." This sonority translates across the spectrum, resulting in a mix that is bright, warm and deep. The opening measures of "Stars Fell On Alabama" (arranged by John Bober), are thick like syrup! "The Moment I Saw Your Eyes," "Old Songs Are Just Like Old Friends" and "Through The Years" are particularly fine arrangements - plenty of variety, but never sacrificing the integrity of the harmonic structure. Good stuff.

Listen to "The Best Times I Ever Had" in Real Audio

The four Slamkas (brothers Mark and Mike, Dad Jack and cousin Don) have done right on this one. With ineffable musical taste, they have selected fabulous songs, such as "Polkadots and Moonbeams," "Heart" and "Swingin' On A Star," and arranged them with creativity and consummate finesse. Their "Orange Colored Sky" (arranged by Tom Gentry), is an exquisite balance of restraint and flash, as is "Operator," where they exploit the gospel flavor, while remaining within the barbershop boilerplate. Power Play (formed in 1988) has that extra special magic in their blend, that fortuitous combination of luck and genes, that gives their sound both sparkle and a smooth finish. Songlist

In its first nine months, Reno, NV-based Q took first place at the divisional level (California/northern Nevada), at the district level (not only winning its district, but outscoring every quartet in all sixteen SPEBSQSA districts) and finished 28th at the world championships in Montreal. Coaching other quartets at the Sacramento Area Quartet Workshop and student quartets at the Northern California Youth Harmony Camp, receiving standing ovations for its music and witty jokes at every barbershop show it headlined, Q went into the studio to record The First Year, its debut CD. What a year! "First Year" has 13 well-chosen classics that showcase the group's ringing chords and tight harmonies: "This Is It (Bugs Bunny Overture," Lerner & Lowe's "Almost Like Being In Love," "I'm Always Chasing Rainbows," a very nice "Q Eyes Medley," "Alice Blue Gown," the traditional "I've Been Working On The Railroad," "I Used To Call Her Baby Medley," and Irving Berlin's "When The Midnight Choo Choo Leaves For Alabam." Randy Newman's heart-tugger "When She Loved Me" is particularly fine. Keep an eye on Q
Sthey're making things happen in the Barbershop world!

Alberta, BC (Canada)-based RealTime is an a cappella vocal group that sings and performs in a wide variety of vocal music, from Contemporary to Barbershop and everything in between. They became the World Champions of barbershop singing in 2005 when they won the Barbershop Harmony Society contest, held in Salt Lake City.  Their debut CD is "Four Brothers," containing the best material from their first year. 13 tunes: Barbershop tunes "When the Saints Go Marchin' In," "Come Fly With Me," "I've Got A Gal in Kalamazoo," "The Birth of the Blues," "All of Me," "Yesterday I Heard the Rain," "Keep Your Sunny Side Up," and "Everything's Coming Up Roses." The jazzy title tune, the jazz standard "It Was A Very Good Year," and the ballads "Loch Lomond" and "Anthem" round out the finely-crafted program. "Four Brothers" has the beautiful arrangements, tight harmonies and sheer great entertainment that are making RealTime one of the fastest-rising groups in the Barbershop world.

Listen to Four Brothers in Real Audio

Formed in 1995, pride of San Diego barbershop quartet Revival was quick to realize its potential, being crowned International Quartet Champions in Atlanta, GA in 1998. Much touring and television appearances across the US and the world followed, as did an excellent CARA-nominated CD, "Revival." "Joyfully" is another stone winner, with harmonies to die for, and the solid, innovative arrangements that are Revival's trademark. 11 songs, some favorites are "Naughty Angeline," "They Didn't Believe Me/Smoke Gets In Your Eyes Medley," "Something's Gotta Give," "This Ole House," "Sugarcane Jubilee," "With A Song In My Heart/The Song Is You Medley," "Pass Me By," the title tune and the Bonus Track, "Willow Weep For Me." "Joyfully" is exactly that, pure harmonic joy and the essence of entertainment from one of Barbershop's Best! Songlist

The 1998 Society winners hail from Southern California, proving that beaches, bikinis and barbershop do go together, and can indeed flourish! What immediately catches the ear is how smooth, unified and cohesive their sound. Old friends David Briner, Gene Cokeroft, Ed Waesche and other equally auspicious cohorts are on hand with the arranging talent. The stately "Tennessee Waltz" is as elegant as it's refined antebellum origins would indictate; "Sentimental Gentlemen from Georgia" revs up the tempo, downshifting in and out of the swiftly inverting chords like a race car on a curvaceous road, crossing the finish line on a blazing barbershop chord! Songlist

Baby Driver
Come In And Stay A While
Lazybones
Can't Buy Me Love
Limu, Limu Lima
Blue Skies
Blackbird
Yes Sir, That's My Baby

Road Show, 2004 Boston Regional Harmony Sweepstakes Champions, gives an energetic performance on their self-titled debut CD. The recording features two songs in collaboration with the quartets Footloose (And So To Sleep Again) and After Hours (Making Whoopee). Road Show's schedule keeps them busy performing and competing all across the country. Their blend of style, voices and talent makes the quartet one of the premier a cappella groups in the Northeast.