Paperback Writer
Summertime Blues
Only the Lonely
Hold Me Tight
I Get Around
Hey Little Cobra
Spooky
Build Me Up Buttercup
Takin' Care of Business
Sunglasses at Night
I Think I Love You
The Way You Look Tonight
Yakety Yak
Ridin' the Storm Out

Chicago's high-energy all male Contemporary quartet Ac-Rock, anchored by Mark MacLean's yummy, deep bass and sweet leads by tenor Paul Iams gets us into a boogying groove right away on "Flying," their 5th excellent CD. The Ricky Martin hit "Livin'," CCR's foot-tapping "Down on the Corner," the Doo-Wop classic "Little Darlin'," the Rockabilly hit "Waitin' In School" and Tommy James' "Draggin' The Line," which is impossible not to start moving to. The manic "Girls, Girls, Girls," Jackson Browne's "James Dean," "Poison Ivy," the make-out anthem "I Think We're Alone Now," the bubblegum hit "Elenore," Chicago's schmaltzy "Does Anyone Really Know What Time It Is," Kenny Loggins' "I'm Alright"... the words to these songs are engraved on our brain cells, but here is Ac-Rock, having big, silly fun with them, and suddenly so are we!

Listen to "I Think We're Alone Now" in Real Audio.

"Box" is the fourth excellent CD by all-male Chicago quartet Ac Rock (pronounced Ak-Rock), who are into a cappella Rock n' Roll, and just keep getting better at singing and arranging it! Paul, JD, Mark & Chris share solos on these 14 songs (actually 18, considering the final cut, "Best of Doo-Wop" includes "Duke of Earl," "The Book of Love," "Get A Job" and the Harmony Sweeps anthem "Goodnight, Sweetheart, Goodnight"). Just listen to cut #9, "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" (before a live audience at an elementary school in Wilmington, IL) if you want to see how much these guys (a) love their work, and (b) have big fun in concert. It's hard to pick favorites here, but "Who Put The Bomp," Brian Wilson's "Little Deuce Coupe," the Drifters' "Under The Boardwalk," Maurice White's "Shining Star," Hanson's "MMMBop," and James Brown's "I Got You (I Feel Good)" (which segues into a short, surreal sample of Strauss' "Blue Danube"), and a nice original by Mark, "Get Out The Way" will do for starters. See these guys live if you can, and get a sweet taste of their good stuff on "Out of the Box!"

Listen to "Absolutely Right" in Real Audio.

Fourteen songs with hilarious studio outtakes and interesting links make this AC Rock's best CD yet. AC Rock does not wait to get your attention on Guaranteed To Satisfy. The exciting opener, "Drive My Car" will leap out of your speakers and get you into the groove. High pitched vocals from tenor Paul Iams and the deep bass of Mark MacLean augment each other perfectly on another one of our favorites, "Rocket 2 U" which shows the groups astounding range. Also included on this remarkable album are new arrangements of Brian Setzer's "Stray Cat Strut," Steve Miller's "Abracadabra" and The Cars' "You Might Think." As the title of the album states, this album is guaranteed to satisfy.

Listen to "Drive My Car" in Real Audio.

The second CD from this Chicago foursome (plus guest percussionist), who like rock and still admit to it. In fact, they even perform rock songs on this CD! Yes, INXS, Grand Funk Railroad and Cheap Trick fall victim to the AC (pronounced "Aack") Rock onslaught. Even "Vehicle," a seventies rock anthem written by Jim Peterik (of cult favorites "Ides of March" and later of eighties AOR band Survivor), receives the AC treatment, complete with an actual guitar solo played by Jim himself! What's more, AC Rock are fine singers, they're tight, and they're in tune. To prove it, and to refute any aspersions that may exist about their musicality, the group includes Seal's "Kiss From A Rose," the Beach Boys "409" and the Hollies "Bus Stop," and even "Istanbul" for you jump swingers. (Actually, we have it on good authority that members of AC Rock received serious musical educations, but we'll never tell!) Party on!

Listen to "Because" in Real Audio.

Ah, sweet rock 'n roll! Say what? Yes, "Suite Judy Blue Eyes" (CCNY) is sweet. "Silhouettes" takes us back in time to the stone age of rock. A rap/reggae intro to "Get Off Of My Cloud" makes it into an original all over again. Bob Dylan is here.You won't even know its "Like A Rolling Stone" until a minute or so has passed. The Beatles are here. OK, lets go out with one of the intriguing tunes in rock n' roll, "Bohemian Rhapsody". Four singers with great voices and unusually fine arranging skills apply themselves to the world of rock with grand results.

Listen to "Suite Judy Blue Eyes" in Real Audio.

Unfortunately our understanding of Italian is limited to restaurant menus, but a scan of the track list indicates that the spiritual and jazz standard are this CD's focus. These five European chaps obviously have a fondness for these particularly American forms; "Climbing Up The Mountain," "Summertime," "Satin Doll," and "Sophisticated Lady" are the mediums for Alti & Bassi's swinging big band style. Vocal orchestrations and scat are vital ingredients, and the group has a great deal of skill and versatility. Their gospel turn on "I'm Rolling Through This Unfriendly World" is warm and convincing. Occasional piano accompaniment.

"Il Favoloso" is our favorite all-male Italian quartet's singing tribute to legendary American composer George Gershwin. Eight of the 11 covers here are by George, one, a lovely a cappella rendition of "The Man I Love," is by George and his brother Ira. One tune, A.E. Negri's "Charleston Prelude," and Zapponi-Luttazzi's title tune, complete the songlist, most of which are live and accompanied. Favorites include "Scandal Walk," "Naughty Baby," "I Got Rhythm," Medley, including "Preludio No. 2," "An American in Paris" and "Rhapsody in Blue," and the bluesy "Summertime." A fun, entertaining collection from Alti & Bassi!

Talented all-male Italian pop/jazz quintet Alti & Bassi's "Take 5," whose cover features an open box of chocolates with musical notes on them, is, fittingly, a sampler CD of 5 songs: an amazingly jazzy cover of "Silent Night," a wonderfully harmonic version of the classic "Unchained Melody," the traditional Spiritual "Nobody Knows," a jazzy, surprisingly arranged "White Christmas" (which segues into the title tune, and "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" from Disney's Cinderella, which segues into a walking jazzy "Take 5. All these are pure a cappella, which really shows off Alti & Bassi's vocal talents. We like this group's song selection, hip arrangements, energy, spirit, sweet leads and solid background harmonies. Help yourself to a taste of Alti & Bassi, fresh pop/jazz from Italy!

It seemed confusing to have Sean Altman leave Rockapella for uncharted waters. With the release of SeanDEMOnium it is evident he wasn't confused. Thanks to overdubbing and his trusty Tascam 686 we are showered with his musical vision, both vocal and instrumentally accompanied. Jeff Thatcher helped the project with vocal percussion on a number of the "pure" tracks. When you hear his guitar work though you will understand why he wants to front a rock band. When you hear his a cappella work you will bemoan his desire to front a rock band, but hear it you should.

The six guys in Ball In The House don't need instruments to make music, they redefine pop by presenting it in a cappella style. Ball In The House takes a cappella into the realm of hip hop and R&B. If your looking for a hip, new sound, The Way It Has To Be is right up your alley. The album is a cappella with a twist of electronica through the voices of these superb singers. Track one, "It's All About Me" is a hard hitting song that reminds us of another hot boy band. Sweet ballads like "Goodbye" and "Don't Rush" are sentimental songs of love and love lost. The group puts a new spin on 80's classic "Karma Chemeleon" by The Culture Club. It is amazing what sounds these boys are able to conjure up. Fourteen great tracks.

Listen to "It's All About Me" in Real Audio.

What happens when you put five amazingly talented guys in a recording studio? The amazing powerhouse of sound, Ball in the House, answered that question with their newest CD. That's right, Tim, Jon J., Aaron, Dave and Dan are back with six new original songs to add to their repertoire. They have delivered a great mix of upbeat music you could dance to as well as some very tender ballads with lush harmonies that could give any contemporary a cappella fan chills. While there are only six tracks, the awesome lyrics and the catchy melodies of each song are more than enough to keep you satisfied as well as hope for their next release to be out soon. From the opening vocal percussion solo on the first track till the triumphant, yet soothing sound in the final track, your ears are sure to be glued to your stereo.

Ball In The House are at the forefront of the new contemporary vocal band sound. Distinguished by all original material, punchy vocal bass and drums, wailing guitar and a generally rawer, "rock" approach, the six young men of this Boston group get down more than most. "The More That I Say" builds up to a rambunctious outro that is a vocal percussion extravaganza. "Crawlin'" is bluesy roots rock with an updated seventies feel; "Try" an urban soul ballad, a modernized street corner harmony. In general, if you like a "heavier" sound with your a cappella, you'll be loving Ball In The House.

Listen to "The More That I Say" in Real Audio.

For their second release baSix has the great idea of getting some of a cappella's finest talents to help them so they engaged the House Jack's Deke Sharon and Britt Quinten of M-Pact to produce the album. A mixture of some fine original songs along with pop classics such as Prince's "Purple Rain" and the Beatles "Come Together" makes for a top-notch contemporary a cappella album worthy of all fan's collections. All songs are in English and the production quality is superb thanks to noted a cappella sound engineer Bill Hare.

Listen to "Part of Me" in RealAudio.

The group gives credit to Italian a cappella greats Neri Per Caso as an inspiration for their sound and this debut album does justice to that high standard. The CD was a hit in their native Denmark and was the first a cappella recording ever to make the Danish pop charts where it stayed for 7 weeks selling over 25,000 copies. A great beginning for this fine a cappella sextet.

Listen to "The Grass" in RealAudio.

Beat'Achon is Chaim Birman, Jordan B. Gorfinkel, Elie Landau, Dave Matkowsky, David Max and Avy Schreiber, and "West Side Z'Mirot" (which we assume translates to something like "story"), is their third CD. There are 12 "Shabbat" songs here, Jewish traditional music beautifully and harmoniously sung in 6-part harmony. The booklet included has an explanation of each song in English, then the words in both Yiddish and in the centuries-old calligraphic Yiddish. The CD makes you feel as if you are sitting back in a synagogue, just allowing the ancient spirituality in the words and the sweet soulful harmonies of these talented men wash over you! Songlist

Listen to "Yom Shabbaton" in Real Audio.

Never forget that Hebrew cantillation was the root of Christian chant later codified by Gregory. In short it is the most ancient a cappella to which we have access. It is not surprising that New York City, with strong orthodox communities in the midst of the neighborhoods which are the doo-wop centers of the world, would have a new emerging Jewish synthesis. Beat'achon combines traditional chant with doo wop elements and harmonies to update an ancient tradition. It is a fascinating historical development.

Beat'achon has grown tremendously in this second album. The voices have matured as well as the combination of Jewish chant and traditional tunes with modern doo-wop and contemporary styles. "Adon Olam," sung to the tune of "Under the Boardwalk," with its complexity of mouth pops and asperative percussive elements (then they throw in the horn lick just in case the mix isn't rich enough) is to die for, so to speak. With sophisticated recording, engineering, and producing assistance Beat'achon has come a long way along the path toward groyskayt!.

It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year
Go Tell It On The Mountain
It Came Upon A Midnight Clear
Santa's Little Helper
Frosty The Snowman/Here Comes Santa Claus
I Wonder As I Wander
Deck The Halls
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
I Bought You A Plastic Star
Away In A Manger
Christmas Eve
All Wrapped Up

From the opening cut, "Tasty,"; the Blenders infuse the hackneyed "upbeat "description with real meaning. There is an occasional touch of percussion added to this mix but frequently it is hard to discriminate between that and the vocal percussion and tambourine of Darren and Ryan. The production of this release is enhanced by experience as the group records, produces, and does everything else on this second effort. Studio originals are the substance of the recording but don't miss the hysterical, live, country version of "Don't Worry, Be Happy"

Listen to "Lonely With You", and "Sailing"

This 2004 releases is a compilation of their other two Christmas recording ("Nog" and "When It Snows") plus a new bonus track"I'll Be Home For Christmas"

Fargo North Dakota is the center of the a cappella universe! Say what? Well it becomes so, at least momentarily, with each new Blenders release. This first release from 1992 introduced a young quartet of men who were bursting with creative energy, musical cleverness, and humor. Mostly we are treated to original work with just 4 covers for those who like to judge talent against the past. Totally Whipped was a great initial release and truly foreshadowed the career which is one of the dynamic successes of the a cappella world. Be prepared to boogie!

You're right, it's not a cappella, but from the first lyric - "voices singing out in harmony" - the Blenders prove, once again, that they have all the right moves. Having tossed their collective hats into the boypop music ring (possible strategy? Well, they'd certainly be one of the best looking bands on MTV), they give it up with radio-seductive songs such as "Turnaround," "Everyday" and "Beautiful," and of course, "I'm In Love With A Mcdonald's Girl." The production values include plenty of lush keyboards and perfectly synchronized drum tracks, though they slip in some cool effects and synthesized sounds too, most obviously on "Forgiven." When the criteria is purity of tone, blend and intonation, the Blenders k.o. the competition.

This 1997 release is a compilation of some of the group's favorite songs from their first three albums, plus three previously unreleased tunes. The new material opens the album - so the first half (the "Now" part) is accompanied, but full of the luscious vocals that has won the group so many fans. It includes a somewhat obscure Led Zeppelin cover, "That's The Way;" a solemn song about a friend's death "Fly Away;" and radio-friendly "Every Now and Then." Among the six a cappella tunes are the Christopher Cross tune "Sailing," and originals "Plainotfancy" and "Rock Your World." The CD is intended to introduce The Blenders to listeners outside the a cappella world, but it will also serve as a great introduction to the group for our catalog customers, and is a must for collectors who want a complete set by this up and coming vocal band.

Hurry, quick! Look at what the Santa's little helpers have been up to this year! It's hard to believe that these four young men from Minnesota have transfused these familiar holiday chestnuts with such inspiration and wonder, but indeed they have. "Let It Snow" takes as it's initial premise a Polynesian tiki lounge rhythm - already different - and then takes the cheery melody headlong into a ninth chord resolution! This CD is trimmed with so many gorgeous decorations that it improves the more one hears it, revealing subtleties that delight upon discovery. The creativity just saturates every song, whether as a distinctive rhythmic variation or unexpected countermelody, but always integrated into the whole (by the way, the group produced and arranged "Nog" themselves). In terms of intonation and blend, the Blenders (coinciding with their choice of name), are the best in the business: listen to "Do You Hear What I Hear" as just one excellent example. It's perfectly calibrated, the senses reveling in the purity of sound. Contemporary a cappella at its best.

Listen to "The Christmas Song" in Real Audio.

Rockin' university gigs is the theme of this recording of live tracks taken from performances throughout the mid-west. The current lineup features David Wilner, Paul Donnelly, Adam Sears, David Anderson, and Eric Skalinder. While the tone lightens to a ballad feel on David W's "I Never Know," generally this is a hard rocking album. The fine vocal drumming of Paul Donnelly keeps the driving beat reverberating through your brain from ear to ear as you are treated to a great number of original tunes. The tunes written by other artists are not ones you will commonly hear and on the one or two really familiar tunes, the arrangements are so original that they sound like new songs. If you like hard rocking, original, contemporary a cappella, this is for you! What is Jaunce, anyway?

Listen to "The Distance" in Real Audio.

The unfortunate news is that Blind Man's Bluff has broken up as a group and won't be up on stage electrifying audiences any time soon. The good news is that before they broke up, they left us all a lovely parting gift, this CD! Including are "Red Line" and "The Drive," stream-of-consciousness urban angst anthems with roots in rap, heavy on the vocal percussion as are all BMB songs, and the rocking, hurt, writhing "Why Didn't You Call Me." "Dirty World" and "Feel" are backed up by what sounds like synthesizer overload, but we have no idea if it's vocal or not, "My One Addiction," "Reservations For One," "I Don't Like" (includes kittens, flowers, SUVs, strip malls, Stallone and implants, among other things), and "Breathin'." This is push-the-a-cappella-envelope, sometimes angry, moody, risky stuff, not for everyone, but the most important art and music is like that!

Listen to "Why Didn't You Call Me?" in Real Audio.

On the Road
Groovin' to Blue Jupiter
Sir Duke
Wrapped Up In You
Hallelujah
Green Shaggy Carpet Ride
Lil' Red Riding Hood
Nightlight
Mr. Pinstripe Suit
Stand By Me
Smooth
Song for Michelle

Could this group be the next big thing in contemporary a cappella? Perhaps the biggest buzz in some circles has been for Blue Jupiter who have been compared to Rockapella, M-Pact, and The Blenders - and with very good reason. They are earning a reputation for performing high-energy shows (one of which was at the West Coast Summit) and are focused on becoming a full-time professional group. Opening with the strong original "Scattered Flurries" the group goes on to sing a mix of Christmas standards with a style and sophistication that showcase their solid harmonies, creative arrangements and obvious talent. Well produced and recorded - a holiday treat for all a cappella fans.

Listen to "Scattered Flurries" in Real Audio.

Edgy pop-funk Blue Jupiter, who won Audience Favorite and Best Arrangement at the Washington DC and NYC Harmony Sweeps Regionals 2 years in a row and recently won Oreo's "Milk's Favorite Jingle" contest, which now is all over the radio, brings us their 3rd CD—the first two the critically acclaimed "Ear Candy" and "Scattered Flurries." "Live" has "no tricks, no tracks, just four mouths and four mics," all 12 cuts arranged, performed and recorded by these 4 talented guys in November 2005 in New York City. Smoky Robinson's "Get Ready," Cindy Lauper's "Time After Time," the Turtles' reborn bubblegum hit "Happy Together," a bluesy, funky cover of "Flip, Flop & Fly," the wonderful "Mr. Pinstripe Suit," Carlos Santana's classic "Smooth" and "Wrapped Up In You" from Ear Candy, the vocal percussion drum solo on "Steal My Kisses" and the driving final cut "All The Small Things" are favorites. Inexplicably, there's guitar accompaniment on "Drive," but the crowd is going nuts throughout, and so are we whenever we see or hear this energetic, dynamic quartet—"Live" is a stone winner!

Listen to "Happy Together" in Real Audio.

Contemporary California sextet Boyz Night Out is back with their second CD. Seven original songs, plus covers of rock songs such as Pearl Jam's "Alive," and strong vocal percussion, courtesy of Boyz Nite Out's newest member, add up to a professional and impressive result. State-of-the-art technology and hip production create a full spectrum of sound, emphasized on tunes such as "My Heart," but these guys can sing too, as is evidenced by Boyz-II-Men type cuts like "When I Look Into Your Eyes." Funky urban pop, such as the group's own "Big Black Cadillac" and Lenny Kravitz' "If You Can't Say No," packs a wallop.

Listen to "My Heart" in Real Audio.

Rockin'! Percussin'! Sacramento CA proudly presents its Harmony Sweeps entrants, a rock 'n roll quintet who have a duet of vocal percussionists extraordinaire keeping the beat perfectly in a tasty group of original tunes with just three covers for those who like to hear something familiar. A richly produced version of "Crazy" by Seal, John Lennon's "Imagine" and "Everybody Wants To Rule The World" are the familiar interludes between original tunes which become just as familiar in just a few listenings because of the memorable melodies.

Germany and Switzerland have a vibrant and prolific a cappella scene. From Denzlingen, Germany come the Buddhas, an all-male quintet with a contemporary sound. Covering material from Elvis Costello's "Accidents Will Happen" to Stevie Winwood's "Roll With It," with several originals to sweeten the pot, the group's arrangements and production are honest and immediate. Twelve of the thirteen tracks were recorded live, and indeed the performances are rife with energy and enthusiasm. The Buddhas' greatest asset is the quality of the individual voices; the lead vocals are consistently strong. The Buddah's own "Seven Acres," with it's smoky depth, is particularly memorable, but "29 Ways" and "Whirlpool" go for the jugular as well. The group gets down and rocks through the Doobie Bros. "Long Train Runnin'," with squealing guitars and bass propulsion.

Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps
Don't Fix What's Broken
Fifty Ways To Leave Your Lover
Sunshine
The Dry Cleaner From Des Moines
Hit That Jive Jack
The Perfect Kiss
Game
Blues On Sunday
Sittin' In The Cellar
True Colours
The Things We Do For Love

Don't miss this one. Get in on the ground floor because the arrangements and vocal flights of fancy which seem to be the current signature of Cadence are exceptional. Four men who have had lifetimes of musical training met at York University in Toronto where they were all studying music. After a huge diversity of musical experience, they have focused their energies for the past couple of years on recreating the world of a cappella music. Frost Free, their first recording, is wonderful. Once again, words won't be able to do the slightest justice to the clever originality and breadth of musical vision which is presented here. Start with beautiful harmonies created by very pure voices. Take a songlist of familiar tunes, "Spinning Wheel," "Shape of My Heart," "I Wish," "Straighten Up and Fly Right," and more. Then add arrangements which occasionally add vocal sounds which you've never heard before (no matter how much you've listened to a cappella music) which are always used within a harmonious context of the whole arrangement. What do you get... originality, that's what you get! You get rap, you get rock, you get ballads, you get a lullaby, you get jazz - lots of jazz licks. When it helps to keep true to the original they create an amazing vocal similitude. You must listen to "Spinning Wheel" and then put on the Blood, Sweat and Tears version. Amazing! Or maybe you'll have your mind blown by the sweet close harmony of Paul Simon's "Slim Punky's Dilemma" as it morphs back and forth into the techno-rap lyrics of Public Enemy. This is one of the finest quartets to make an appearance in the a cappella scene in quite a while!

Listen to "Spinning Wheel" in Real Audio.

This bright young seven member group has burst upon the scene with their first album, This New Place. The title is all about where the group finds itself at the moment, with new members, new music, new travels and new fans. The CD focuses on Motown and R&B. The group is heavily influenced by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight and Otis Redding. Our favorite tracks include a revamped version of Stevie Wonder's "Signed, Sealed, Delivered," "Who's Lovin' You" which was originally recorded by Smokey Robinson and finally the grooviest of them all, "Let's Get it On" from Marvin Gaye. Nine other groovin' songs. Songlist

Listen to "Let's Get It On" in Real Audio.

Pinball Number Count
Change the World
Eleanor Rigby
Holly Oak
There I Go
Mercy Mercy Me
I've Known You All My Life
Highway
I Wanted to Say
Peg
Hot Fun in the Summertimed
Clocks

CVX presents us with a wide variety of covers, Todd Rundgren's "Hodja," a doo wop "In The Still Of The Night," the Grateful Dead's "Uncle John's Band," to name a few. The delight of the album is found in the humor of the originals all of which poke sympathetic fun at social stereotypes. Yuppie yucks, falling in love, lost love drowned in booze, feeling bad, the inertia in small towns and the terminally straight-laced are all dealt with by these 1995 and 1997 Harmony Sweepstakes Chicago Regional winners. They're a complete delight.

Listen to "Yuppie Refugee" in Real Audio.

Ecoute! C'est bon! Magnifique! However, this CD is neither live nor recorded in Paris - nor is it a collection of French "chansons" - so I guess we're not in on the joke, but what it is is a musically diverse, often sardonic and thoroughly solid slate of songs. Disco schtick ("Grooveline/YMCA"), cartoon themes ("Underdog") and seventies soul ("Midnight Train to Georgia") are interpreted fervently, but the originals have the staying power: "The IHOP Song," "Crocodile Tears," and the Sweepstakes best original song winner, "So Far," which nails those dulcet Beach Boys-type harmonies to the most engaging of melodies.

CVX has wowed us from more than one Harmony Sweepstakes Finals stage, and this is their raucous, more than slightly irreverent, fun Christmas CD! 14 songs: "Jingle Bells," a jazzy, driving "Carol O' Bells," the Beach Boys' "Little St. Nick," "We Three Kings," "Santa Claus" (who has whether you've been good or bad "on videotape"), a delightfully oily "Mr. Grinch," "Deck The Hall," "Mistletoe and Holly," "Holly Jolly Christmas," the requisite "Rudolph," "Silent Night," the hilarious "Walkin' Round In Women's Underwear" ("Later on, if ya wanna, we can dress like Madonna"),the raunchy, macho "Better Open Up My Present," and finally "Feliz Navidad," which becomes the little-known Jewish carol--"Feliz Hannukah." This is a party Christmas CD--not for everyone, but then it doesn't try to be!

Aptieka
Maskava
Parasta/nerparasta diena
Vindo
Tu Ka, Es Ka
Trejdevini Slepens
Vienreiz
Destination: Heaven
Pasaules Galins
Unintended

The Conn Artists is a seven-man a cappella Contemporary/Jazz/Doo-wop ensemble that performs throughout Connecticut ("Conn Artists," get it?), and "First Offense" is their debut CD. Included are: "Ain't No Sunshine," "The Worst That Could Happen," "Dream Lover," "Better Than Anything," "I Love My Boss," "Change In My Life," Van Morrison's "Moondance," The Four Freshmen's "Blue World," "Consider Me Gone," "Ave Maria," "On And On," "Winter's Night," "Take 5," "On The Street Where You Live" and "God Bless The Child." The guys harmonize with energy and spirit, and we're hoping they commit Second and Third Offenses and end up with a lengthy record!

The Gates
Internet Porn
Heather Graham
Me Pants Fall Down
I Wish I Were
The Big Chair
Hot Soup
Enema Countdown
Another Irish Drinking Song
Enormous Penis
Uncle Bufford Mego Mix
What A Wonderful World

Have you ever heard a song about fish sticks? How about liposuction, high- rise cowboy window washers love affairs, the joy of pickled okra or a shoehorn with teeth??? Akin to the sound of one hand clapping is the question, can an a cappella group with its popularity growing in leaps and bounds still be considered be a cult classic? In the Washington DC area DaVinci's Notebook has a serious fan base who love the joy of their performances. On this, their first release, are also found great arrangements of "Traffic Jam," "Blue Moon" and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay."

Listen to "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay", "Blue Moon" or "Traffic Jam" in Real Audio.

Who's Mike Fanning? We don't know. Does it matter? No. This CD is the most hilarious recording to rotate our turntables this year! The opening cut, "Ally McBeal," (to the tune of Dylan's "Rolling Stone") is positively wicked, with lines like "and all the up you've thrown/into your porcelain throne," and "your Pop-Tart feminism." Da Vinci, aided and abetted by the Bobs' Richard Greene, who produced, spoof the present ("Road Rage," "Secret Asian Man") the past ("Soggy Diaper Blues") and the hereafter ("Kingdom in the Sky"). It's a blue-tinged, contemporary sound, which freaks freely, taking liberties with Meat Loaf-style rock opuses such as "Three Little Words." Some of the tracks have strategic percussion or harmonica.

Listen to "Ally McBeal" or "Road Rage".

The six young men of Eclipse first met in a singing group at Utah State University. Campus performances of pop covers led to their first album, 2001's "Once." They won the NW Regional Harmony Sweeps and were very impressive at the 2001 Finals. After performing a featured number in the Opening opening of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and releasing their second album, "Think Twice," they won the 2002 Rocky Mountain Sweeps Regional. "Three Kings" is a rich, innovative Christmas CD that features 11 songs that features stunning arrangements, many of them by group member Patrick Rose. There are 3 very nice original tunes, "This Year," "Room in the Inn" and the sweet "Lullaby." Strong vocal percussion on the spirited "Three Kings," "Drummer Boy," and "Go Tell It." Smooth, ringing harmonies on "The First Noel" and "What Child Is This?" A bluesy, jazzy "The Christmas Song" and "Silent Night" are last. One of the best of the year! Highly recommended.

Listen to "Three Kings" and "The First Noel" in Real Audio.

These six talented young men met at Utah State University, won the 2001 Pacific NW Regional of the Harmony Sweeps and wowed the audience here at the 2001 Finals. They also won the 2002 Rocky Mountain Regionals and were great at the Finals. They were featured at the opening and closing Winter Olympics ceremonies. "Think" is their second excellent CD, after the 2001 release "Once." 11 songs: "Live It On Up," "Keep Pushin' On," the title tune, the Yes hit "Owner of a Lonely Heart," the wonderfully-done "Heaven's Eyes," "Ashes," "Close To Me," "Pouring Rain," "My Maria," "Kick Back, Relax" and Stephen C. Foster's "Hard Times Come Again No More." Strong, innovative arrangements by second tenor Patrick Rose, and some of the smoothest vocal percussion we've heard. Extensive, full-color liner notes with bios, photos and all lyrics. These guys say they're ready to join the a cappella elite, we couldn't agree more! Songlist.

Listen to "Owner of a Lonely Heart " in Real Audio.

Eclipse is an ensemble of six who met in northern Utah while attending Utah State University. They have performed extensively with the USU Department of Programs and Entertainment. This is their first recording and features original songs by all the members of the band along with a smattering of cleverly arranged covers. The original songs tend to be love songs and might be categorized as sweet-rock. They cover Sting's "King of Pain" with some marvelous vocal embellishments and "Africa" (not again, you think to yourself...but wait!) with a scat falsetto break making it the newest arrangement in a long while. "Danny Boy" is sung as a beautiful multi-part harmony and showcases just what fine voices these singers have, and "Zoot Suit Riot" is a full on jazz arrangement. This is a great first recording of a group worthy of close attention.

76 Trombones - Music Man
Willkommen - Cabaret
Gee, Officer Krupke - West Side Story
Bring Him Home - Les Miserables
I Am I, Don Quixote - Man of La Mancha
If I Were A Rich Man - Fiddler on the Roof
There Is Nothing Like a Dame - South Pacific
Oklahoma! - Oklahoma!
Fugue For Tinhorns - Guys and Dolls
Try To Remember - The Fantastiks
With A Little Bit of Luck - Oliver
You'll Never Walk Alone - Carousel

One of our favorite groups since they started singing together in 1989, Bay Area Contemporary all-male quartet the Edlos' website lists 4 different live shows they offer, the Variety Show, Country Western Show, Holiday Show, and, recently added, the groovy 60s Show. Born of this show, "Retropella" is a roots thing for these very funny, talented guys, and the liner notes fold out to a poster of the boys in their 60s garb, from school mugshots to freak-flag-flying hippie band shots. 12 songs (with one bonus song about peace at the end), most of them hippie anthems. There's marvelous faux instrumentation and faked psychedelic "wah-wah" effects and inventive vocal percussion throughout. This is one of the most ambitious CDs we've heard this year; the guys pull it off bigtime, and have big fun doing it - the live show has to be a hit!

Listen to "Wimoweh" in Real Audio.

The Edlos first all-original album. This California foursome have been on the cutting edge of the new contemporary a cappella movement since their debut, and have sustained a loyal following, courtesy of their highly entertaining live performances. The group continues to parody anything and everybody, as on "Paper," "IRS Blues" and "Garbage Man" (the latter previously released on their "Sampler" CD), but in fact, their musical depth extends far beyond the comic, and embraces a variety of stylistic influences. "The Dream," as a case in point, traverses into classical territory and even has a quasi-operatic finale. "Down At The Mall" spills over into doo-wop, with it's nonsense syllables and high falsetto overlay. The Edlos' musical credentials bring a sophistication to their sound that is their own inimitable brand.

Listen to "Acappellypso" in Real Audio.

The Edlos are one the best-known groups in contemporary a cappella. Drawing on material from their previous three CD's, this "Sampler" is your basic Edlos 101, with a couple of new songs for extra credit: "Garbage Man" and "Mrs. Claus." This California group is known for their humor, and there is plenty of that, but there is plenty of substance as well: their solid education in the fundamentals of a cappella singing and the styles of barbershop and doo wop have endeared them to fans for many years past, and for many years to come!

The Edlos are first-rate technical singers who amuse themselves and their zealous followers with zany antics and offbeat lyrics. This mix of the high and lowbrow has resulted in an eclectic sound that is umistakeably Edlos. For this special Christmas collection enjoy the Appalachian traditional, "Talkin' About Sufferin' Here Below," a Ukrainian carol, "Carol Of The Bells," "Big Santa (The Visit)," and "Sim Shalom," among others. This male quartet makes everything they do sound easy and casual, but listen intently: the whole is fashioned with the utmost of precision, and scholarship that takes years to acquire.

The Edlos were visiting Nashville where they were tapped to play the Grand Old Opry. The wildly enthusiastic response they found was the root inspiration for a collection of country tunes. There is a sweet lilting poignancy found in heartstring tuggers like "For Ever and Ever, Amen," "Goodbye To White Deer" and "High Hill." Traditional tunes are present in "Your Cheatin' Heart" and "Faded Love." "Castin' My Lasso" is a vehicle for great yodeling, cowboys old and new, mine disasters, wired truck drivers... If its country its here.

elmo THUMM is Greg Vaden, Paul Ellinger, Adam Westmoreland, Ed Pendleton and Jason Miller. This young, energetic group's debut brings forth their style as understood in the best musical form, LIVE! elmo THUMM displays their contempory style on favorites like "Stand By Me," "Under The Boardwalk," "Summertime," and "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." These boys sing their hearts out on thirteen tracks.Songlist

Listen to "Up On the Roof" in Real Audio.

This the Essentials second album and we have considerable change to enjoy. The harmonies are as tight as ever but the doo-wop tunes take the back seat in favor of light rock. In the footsteps of the Nylons they have chosen to add a percussion track to most of the tunes. "My Girl," "Lean On Me," "If I Fell" and "Only You" are the offerings for purists. Please don't let me give the impression that the doo wop is totally gone from the repertoire, for several songs still have that element but the selection is faithful to the historical changes of the 60's popular music.

House of the Rising Sun
Trashin' the Camp
Fallin' Over You
Drive My Car
Surfer Girl
Pretty Woman
Stand By Me
Up the Ladder
People Change
Come Together

Maureen
The Way You Make Me Feel
My Girl
Stand By Me
Beliver
Magic
Dance Dance
Sky
Use Me
Some Kind Of Wonderful

We never forget a Face, especially having just savored the Boulder, CO's memorable performance at the 2005 Harmony Sweeps Finals in San Rafael and personally counted their winning votes for Audience Favorite (the judges also awarded them 2nd Place in a hugely talented field of 8 Regional winners). Face performed two of the 5 songs on this sampler CD at the Finals, a dramatic, soaring cover of Maroon 5's wonderful "Harder to Breathe" and a big fun, rock-solid vocal-percussion cover of Men Without Hats' 80's Techno hit "Safety Dance." Cake's "Short Skirt, Long Jacket" gets an appropriately manic, energetic treatment, and "The River Runs Slow" is a flowing, rhythmic, harmonic treat. The final cut is a sweet, sexy arrrangement of Marvin Gaye's seduction anthem "Sexual Healing." "Wake Up," and Face's live performance, give notice that this hard-working, talented group is ready for the bigtime in the a cappella world!

We have enjoyed Ron Feingold as MC of the last two West Coast Summits, and saw him perform a number of the bits "live." The "live" is in quotes because Ron performs live with a recording of himself singing 4-part harmony. There are 11 songs here, "Oh What A Night," the masterful "A Day In The Life," which includes every ad jingle you or Ron could remember," "Good Old A Cappella," the Disco medley "Chickadow," "The Jim Croce Medley" (with great impressions, from Neil Diamond to Kermit the Frog), CSN&Y's"Seven Bridges Road," "Kosher Ham," "Scream," the hilarious "Home Depot Song," and "True Companion." Ron's act is unique in the a cappella world, as far as we know, and the man has few peers as an arranger, performer, singer, impressionist and comedian. "Solo Effort" is a rich, funny CD that makes us appreciate what we saw live all the more.

Listen to "The Home Depot Song" on Real Audio.

Let's make this clear up front - this is an a cappella recording, but if you didn't know that, you might think the group has a full band behind them. Through the wonders of effects processing, these 13 original songs push at the boundaries of previously held definitions of a cappella! The production adds tones that could only be made by instruments before, and while Five O' Clock Shadow is still essentially a pop band, they have more grit and a welcome edge. The arrangements, as exemplified by the wistfully engaging "Halo" and progressive "Interlude," are intricately textured and choreographed. The title track, with its hip descending line and devastatingly singable melody, should be igniting radios everywhere. The FOCS have been VH1 darlings of late, and we can hear why.

This is the first CD with Paul Pampinella and Samrat Chakrabarti (some will remember Paul from the vastly popular Vox One). The group has released a solid and technically accomplished record of pop originals in the "blue-eyed soul" vein. The two covers include what is definitely the flashiest tune, the'70's booty shaker "Get Down Tonight." The stylized, crisp and layered production, as well as the energy of the performance, is the album's piece de resistance. The originals are more subtle, and we recommend you give them your undivided and rapt attention for full enjoyment; the spot-on harmonies, expert arrangements and tasteful percussion show why Five O'Clock Shadow is highly recognized among listeners and a cappella singers alike. A syncopated toe-tapper, "Stop and Say Hello" is off of their third CD, '"So There." From the New England region, Five O'Clock Shadow has refined their skills through constant touring on the college circuit. Preparing to parlay their already considerable success into greater exposure before a larger audience, the group throws down the gauntlet with superb songwriting and skillful taut production.

First formed in England in 1982 by members of a socialist fringe theatre group who used a cappella singing in a play about a miner's strike, the Pickets fell in love with the music. They started doing pop/rock a cappella in UK clubs, released a live CD on their own label, which sold so well they were signed by Virgin Records in 1983. The first single with Virgin, "Only You," a cover of a song by Yazoo, was number 1 in the UK and huge in Europe. Four more excellent Contemporary CDs followed. "Live" was recorded at the Fliegende Bauten in Hamburg in 2002, and it shows off the group's forte: dynamic live performances, reminiscent of the Nylons. 14 songs, "I Want It That Way," "Let Me Entertain You," Stephen Stills' "Love The One You're With," Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean," a FP original, "Guilty," "When," Seal's "Kiss From a Rose," Sting's "Moon Over Bourbon Street," Stevie Wonder's "As," "Living La Vida Loca," "Eternal Flame," Kool & the Gang's "Celebration," "Mama Lou" and "Only You." We'd love to see this group live!

The Flying Pickets are an English male quintet who raised some dust on the English charts in the 1990's. Their CD's can be virtually impossible to find in this country, and indeed, "The Warning," released in 1992 on an Austrian label, had disappeared like a rabbit into a magician's hat! These fifteen contemporary pop songs, in the English "blue-eyed soul vein," feature strong rhythms and vigorous percussion, with vocals that come straight from the gut. Some originals ("The Warning," "No Deposit, No Return," "God We Were Laughing" and others), balance the covers of recognizable hits such as "Billie Jean," "Tainted Love" and "Don't Dream It's Over." Added plus: technically, the production on this CD is superior to some of the group's other recordings, and really opens up their sound.

Another CD we were lucky enough to score on import, "Lost Boys" is the second recording by England's Flying Pickets (their first, "Live At The Albany Empire," isn't available any more). One of our favorite European contemporary a cappella groups (though predating the advent of vocal percussion), they emerged from the 'eighties new wave craze with their number one U.K. hit, "Only You," (included on this recording). The Pickets have an honest and soulful sound; their material is always strong - "The Tears Of A Clown," "Who's That Girl" and Dylan's "Masters Of War" are representative - and their arrangements convey the power of the song itself, without any extraneous frippery. Given this discernment, when the sextet does unite and deliver a surging stacked chord, as they do frequently on "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'," they really command attention.

Listen to "Tears Of a Clown" in RealAudio.

First the original Flying Pickets are not the same quintet that are frequently thought of to be the Flying Pickets; in another example of the machinations that occur between band members, there are in fact two different groups entirely. This CD was released in Europe in 1994, and features a new version of "Only You," their 1983 #1 hit. In terms of sound, the differences between the two Pickets are well, not in name only, but are negligible; uncomplicated arrangements of rock hits ("Smells Like Teen Spirit," "Sign Your Name," "When Doves Cry" etc), performed in a candid style. The name of the group links directly to its working-class origins (a picketer is a striking union worker), and their music is similarly raw and unpretentious. One can imagine them singing at the local pub and having a beer with them later.

The new a cappella sensation from Minneapolis, MN, talented all male quartet Four Shadow has the kind of slogan that warms our a cappella hearts, "All Vocals All The Time." They perform a repertoire of a number of original songs, as well as tunes by the Beatles, Paul Simon and the Dave Matthews Band, for audiences across America, singing over 150 shows a year in over 40 states. They have shared the stage with Huey Lewis, the Persuasions and Lonestar, and performed live on NBC's "Today" show. 13 songs, some favorites: the excellent, group-written originals "Breathin'," "Better Than This" and "Summer Sunday," Curtis Mayfield's Motown hit, "It's Alright," "Day Tripper," Buffalo Springfield's (made famous by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) "For What It's Worth," James Brown's upbeat "I Feel Good," CSN&Y's "Seven Bridges Road," the fairly silly "Blankets and Pie," (traditional melody with words by the group's Drew Tullar) "It's Gonna Rain" and the sublime, driving "Kyrie." OK, our favorites include just about all the songs, but in fact there's not a weak cut here. Crisp, solid vocal percussion, bright, innovative arrangements, and most of all, sheer vocal talent multiplied by four adds up to a stunning debut CD for this fast-rising young quartet from Minneapolis!

Listen to Giraffe Nightingale in RealAudio.

The new a cappella sensation from Minneapolis, MN, talented all male quartet Four Shadow has the kind of slogan that warms our a cappella hearts, "All Vocals All The Time." They perform a repertoire of a number of original songs, as well as tunes by the Beatles, Paul Simon and the Dave Matthews Band, for audiences across America, singing over 150 shows a year in over 40 states. They have shared the stage with Huey Lewis, the Persuasions and Lonestar, and performed live on NBC's "Today" show. 13 songs, some favorites: the excellent, group-written originals "Breathin'," "Better Than This" and "Summer Sunday," Curtis Mayfield's Motown hit, "It's Alright," "Day Tripper," Buffalo Springfield's (made famous by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) "For What It's Worth," James Brown's upbeat "I Feel Good," CSN&Y's "Seven Bridges Road," the fairly silly "Blankets and Pie," (traditional melody with words by the group's Drew Tullar) "It's Gonna Rain" and the sublime, driving "Kyrie." OK, our favorites include just about all the songs, but in fact there's not a weak cut here. Crisp, solid vocal percussion, bright, innovative arrangements, and most of all, sheer vocal talent multiplied by four adds up to a stunning debut CD for this fast-rising young quartet from Minneapolis!

Listen to "Breathin'" in RealAudio.

There's a new hotbed of a cappella: Minnesota! We just reviewed Blue Jupiter's "ear candy," and as it turns out, they've been opening across the country for Minneapolis-based Four Shadow. Also four good-looking, more-talented-than-you-can-believe young guys, who have been rising fast in the a cappella world with high-energy live shows (we can hear the teenage girls screaming in the background), Four Shadow brings us 17 amazing covers on "Live." Some of our favorites: James Brown's "I Feel Good," "In The Still of the Night," The BeeGee's disco anthem "Stayin' Alive," "Sugar Ray Medley," "I Can Live With That," "County Fair Love" (an original by the group's Karl Schroeder), The Doobie's "Joy to the World" and the last tune,"I Can't Get Next to You." There's plenty of funny chatter between the group and the appreciative audience. Big Bible Belt Fun!

Listen to "In the Still of the Night " in Real Audio.

Four Shadow comes from the same gene pool that produced contemporary a cappella heroes Rockapella, the House Jacks and Five O' Clock Shadow. The ear-friendly pop rock of original tunes such as "Little Mouse, " "Wendy" and "World To Me" are kicked off by the crisp snap and articulation of the vocal bass and drums, who work it with tight precision. Savvy production and arranging delivers points, creating a full and dynamic sound. The group spins rap with "George" and then careens into the off-kilter country polka feel and impolite lyric of "If" ("if you were a song I would not sing you" is the most civilized, and that's putting it kindly). A few covers - Paul Simon, Dave Matthews - round out the set. We like it.

Baby I'm Waiting
The Rules
Unstoppable
If I Tried
Your Moon
Any Note Will Do
Just Listen
Slowly Slowly Stop
Life
Stayin' Alive
Winter Wonderland

When we first saw the four young men of 4:2:Five at the Harmony Sweeps Finals, we knew they were going places fast. Their sound brings to mind Rockapella, the Coats and the House Jacks, and they do most of their own arranging. The aptly-named "Time Machine" is mostly classic doo-wop covers like "Come Go With Me," Barbara Ann," the Drifters' "Under the Boardwalk," Elvis' "Hound Dog," "Blue Moon," "Good Old A Cappella," "Love Potion #9" and even the beloved Sweeps anthem "Goodnight Sweetheart." What makes these 15 songs really "sing" is James May's sweet leads, as good as any doo-wop leads we've heard. The other guys are right on the beat with the butter-smooth deep-bass and baritone backup vocals. Although technically not doo-wop, James Brown's "I Feel Good" and the Doobies' "Joy To The World" really smoke. A stone winner!

What I Like About You
Guitarzan
Charlie On the MTA
Be My Yoko Ono
Does Your Mother Know
I Feel Fine
Man of Constant Sorrow
Who Put The Bomp?
Walkin' On Sunshine
I'm A Believer

You are in for a treat. This recording contains straight ahead a cappella covers with no production embellishments, sung to you by the quartet who placed first in the 1997 Northern Harmony, A Canadian A Cappella Celebration. Now even though these songs are recorded just the way you could hear them performed on stage, the vocal kazoo and trumpet chorus on "Rockin' Robin does provide a distinctive, playful, embellishment. You'll find "Good Lovin'," "Blue Moon," "For The Longest Time," "Under The Boardwalk" (nice gargle effect there), "Duke Of Earl," "Sesame Street" and more, eighteen tunes in all. Go Canada! Get Heebee-Jeebees!

Watcha Wanna Do
Long Train Running
Way Past Down
Ride
Superfriend
No Quarter
Higher Ground
Two Ways Out
Try A Little Tenderness
Love You Madly
Mr. Funky
Disco Inferno
I Just Want To Celebrate
Apache Wedding Prayer

We've seen Daly City, CA all-male quartet Hook Slide at a West Coast Summit and a couple of Harmony Sweepstakes Regionals, including the 2002 Regional where they missed going to the finals by the smallest of margins. What we saw was a charismatic, talented group with an energetic, beautifully choreographed stage show and a winning combination of covers and excellent material written and arranged by the group. Listening to their debut CD "Original" only reinforces our opinion that Hookslide is going places! Included are mostly songs by the group: "It's You," "Needed More," "Don't Let Me Go," Simple Minds' "Don't You Forget About Me," "What Sin," "Tossed," "Make A Right," "Maybe Next Time," "Waiting," "My Hidden Wish," the driving, manic "Overreacting," a brilliant arrangement of Aerosmith's "Dream On" and "Funkbus." Paul Anderson, Mayank Thanawala, Jonathan Pilat and George Hoffman have a knack of writing and arranging to the strengths of the group, especially Jon's vocal percussion. The liner notes are beautiful and include all the words to the original songs?which is good, because Original Spin" is the kind of CD we'll want to listen to a few times to fully appreciate!

Listen to "Dream On" , "Maybe Next Time" and "Overreacting" in Real Audio.

Groundbreaking Contemporary quintet The House Jacks have been through some changes over the years, losing Austin Willacy to a solo career, for instance. Austin is back, and joining group members Deke Sharon, Garth Kravitz, Bert Bacco and Wes Carroll in writing excellent original material. "Unbroken" is a strong, intense CD of 10 original songs?"more love," the Sgt. Pepperish "adventure day," "what-s for real," "after you," "maybe that-s the reason," "from sunday," "stop and think," "good things," "middle ground" and the title tune. Beautiful, full color liner notes with moody, surreal photos behind the lyrics. The trademark powerful vocal percussion is here, the confident, bright harmonies?this is a work of art from the legendary House Jacks!

Listen to "Adventure Day" and "Unbroken" in Real Audio.

How do you cheer The House Jacks in German? (OK wait for it...) LOUDLY! And so it was on all the stops in Austria, Belgium, Germany, Italy, and, yes the USA. The results are a grand album of these rock/funk-masters singing a few covers, some new arrangements of older work and 11 (count-em) new unreleased originals which you will enjoy in two sets totaling over an hour of music! This must be a first in the anals of live recordings where the normal fare is familiar songs from other recordings rather than original works. One of the qualities which we find particularly appealing is the mix of beauty and quiet harmony added into the hard rocking songs which our tapping feet and nodding heads have come to expect from this band. You know superlatives have long since run out when we try to create verbal accolades for the band which effectively created a cappella rock/funk genre, which pioneered vocal percussion, and which is still is as good as it gets. While all the tunes feature Bert Bacco, Wes Carroll, Garth Kravits, and Deke Sharon, the fifth voice on some of the tunes is Austin Willacy and on some, Kevin Fudge. This is worth mentioning for Austin Willacy has returned to the Jacks once again! YES! He's the creator of some of the most unique and brilliant songs the band has recorded. Remember also that Drive marks the tenth anniversary of the original rock a cappella band.

"Annual Bootleg Volume 1" is of course a live CD in a simple cardboard sleeve that has a songlist printed on it and very little else. It assumes we know that THS is a Cape Cod-based a cappella vocal group of between 10 and 14 young men, and luckily, we do. 16 songs, some favorites are the Beatles' "Drive My Car, "Bring It To Me," "Remedy," "Just My Imagination," "Signed Sealed Delivered," Huey Lewis & the News' "If This Is It," Joni Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi," "Love Train" and closing with their trademark "Irish Parting Blessing." Recorded at First Baptist Church, Hyannis in August of 2003 before an enthusiastic audience. Good stuff!

Listen to "Irish Blessing" in Real Audio.

"Talk About It" was recorded in 1996, in the second year of the group's existence, and they have clearly grown in experience, arrangements and sheer vocal talent. Still comprised of 10 young male singers from colleges and universities all over the country, brought together and produced by Townsend Belisle. 18 songs, particularly fine are "Sister Golden Hair," the Motown hit "Ain't No Sunshine," Van Morrison's deathless "Moondance," the Doo-Wop standards "In the Still of the Night" and "Sh-Boom," "I Don't Want to set the World on Fire," Stevie Wonder's "Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing," "Lullaby," "What A Wonderful World" and "Everybody Wants to Rule the World." An impressive, lively second album for Hyannis Sound!

The Sound, founded and produced annually by Townsend Belisle, has been Cape Cod's all-male a cappella ensemble since 1994, and is comprised of an elite group of 14 young male singers from colleges and universities across the country. They perform in backyards, weddings, fine dining establishments, stadiums and everything in between. "Cape Standard Time" has 15 finely crafted covers, some favorites are: "72 Hour Daze (Taxiride), Frank Sinatra's "Fly Me To The Moon," James Taylor's "Your Smiling Face," Otis Reddings " The Dock Of The Bay," Stephen Bishop's "On and On," Michael Jackson's "Thriller," the Blenders' arrangement of Christopher Cross' "Sailing," Sting's marvelous "Fields of Gold," and Queen's immortal "Bohemian Rhapsody." Strong, solid vocal percussion, sweet, soaring leads, hip arrangements, strong material?it adds up to an entertaining winner for Hyannis Sound!

Listen to "Your Smiling Face" in Real Audio.

With very hip and original takes on some of the best loved Christmas carols, and two Inpulse originals, this CD should not be missed. Some favorites include a beautiful contemporary take on "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen," the triumphant and soulful "O Holy Night," the impressive vocal percussion and rockin' solo in their original song "Sound of Salvation," and their soothing sound in "White Christmas." Inpulse's rich, soulful sound is sure to warm your heart this holiday season.

Listen to "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" in RealAudio.

This is the debut CD of 5-man Twin Cities Contemporary a cappella group Inpulse, formed by members of the St. Olaf College group, The Limestones, which recorded the very good CD "Set in Stone." The top-drawer vocal percussion is courtesy of renowned vocal percussionist Paul Donnelly, Inpulse has a fresh, driving sound, writing about 80% of their solid pop material and adding some great covers. 11 songs: "Obsession," Sister Hazel's "Everybody," "Dancing Angel," John Mayer's "Your Body is a Wonderland," the very strong title tune, "Here For A While," the surprising, self-defining "Top 5 Reasons (we're not a boy band)," a soaring cover of Journey's SF anthem, "Lights," and finishing with our favorite 3 cuts on the CD, "If Morning Would Come," "Pictures On TheWall" and "Fearless." "Alone" is a confident, intelligent debut by a very talented group of young men who are going places in the a cappella world!

Oh, What Do You Do in the Summertime?
Book of Mormon Stories / The Golden Plates
My Heavenly Father Loves Me
The Priesthood is Restored / A Young Man Prepared
Bolero
Do Your Ears Hang Low?
Little Purple Pansies
I Am a Child of God
When I Am Baptized
Baptism (Jesus Came to John the Baptist)
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Mahna Mahna
Primary Jamboree
In The Sun They Melted (Snowmen II)

The fifth excellent CD by multiple CARA-winners, 6-man Salt Lake City-based Mormon a cappella group Insideout is for kids, and is the second kids' CD by a Contemporary Christian group we've reviewed recently, the other is Go Fish's "Splash," which we also found delightful. 15 songs, "'Give' Said The Little Stream" features wonderful vocal percussion and fake synthesizer, and "Eensie Weensie Spider" is beautifully updated. "I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus," "I Feel My Savior's Love," "Never Tell a Lie," "When You Tell One Lie," and "Lullaby," an original by group member Kimball Brown, are especially good. "I Hope They Call Me On A Mission" and the short but sweet "Books in the Book of Mormon" are of special interest to Mormon kids. The CD concludes with the big fun "Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree" and "Once There Were Some Snowmen," a brilliant and unexpected parody tour-de-force.

Listen to "I Feel My Saviour's Love" in Real Audio.

InsideOut's full sound realizes a variety of musical styles and a broad repertoire ranging from golden oldies to hits of the 80s and 90s. The album also includes original songs by InsideOut's exceptional songwriter Kimball Brown. Kimball has done some amazing work on both his original compositions and new arrangements, you won't be disappointed. Songs on the album include "Forever Young," "Just Can't Get Enough," "You've Got a Friend," and "Only You," plus originals "Taken Up," "Like Water," "Innocence II," and "I'll Fly." In addition to the audio, the CD has an interactive portion for computers with sound clips, photos, and even an InsideOut video game.

Listen to "Rubby Ducky" in Real Audio.

Those familiar with Inside Out's previous CD, "Innocence," will notice that the group has evolved considerably since then. Though still paying sonic homage to their influences, the Blenders and Rockapella, this male sextet from Utah has a considerably more substantial sound than on the previous recording, and is writing original songs as well. Concise and punchy vocal percussion adds crunch, the performances are tighter, and the group is finding their own identity. When they launch into the groove of "What's On Your Mind/Pure Energy" they quash all objections. The verdict is in: "Experience" pays off!

Listen to "Jackie Chan" in Real Audio.

An all-male sextet from Utah, "Inside Out A Cappella" has a similar sound to the Blenders and Rockapella, a likeness for which they make no apology, even covering the Blenders "McDonald's Girl" and Rockapella's "Ellie My Love." The group's "Coal Mine Medley" is a four-song patchwork that seamlessly integrates classic Americana such as "Sixteen Tons" and "Nobody Knows The Trouble I've Seen" with a surprisingly modern and engaging result. "Squirrels" and "Rubber Ducky," reveal the group's silly side; "Somebody," "Prayer For The Children" and "Old Park Bench" are tender ballads. Several of the compositions are originals and display quite a flair for melody.

Listen to "Renewal" in Real Audio.

It's a musical Mission! Is there such a field of music as Mormon Gospel? There is now! Jason Smith, Ryan Hinton, Paul Hatch, Kimball Brown, Ben Haacke, and Lynn Haacke present a beautiful selection of Mormon religious music. While much of the music has the sound of four-square gospel or a traditional hymn feeling, occasionally the sweet perfection of the voices are enhanced by mixing a full choir behind their voices which creates the audible image of a huge organ filling a glorious cathedral. From the opening tune, "Joseph Smith's First Prayer," to the finale "I Hope They Call Me on a Mission," you will be introduced to an entrancing spiritual music which is subtly different from more familiar gospel or spiritual traditions. It is both beautiful and fascinating.

Listen to "Jesus Christ The Apple Tree" in Real Audio.

Having been introduced to Seattle's Kickshaw in the 1997 Harmony Sweepstakes, we knew this CD was worth our attention, and it has surpassed our expectations. (Seattle's a cappella scene is happening, having also produced m-pact and the Coats). This funky foursome grooves to a dance beat, that's for sure; "Superstar," written by the group, is our favorite, but "Papa Is A Rolling Stone" is a close runner-up. However, Kickshaw throws out several curve balls too - the chant of "Invictus," which reveals a depth and intelligence that goes beyond frilly shirts and disco frivolity. The production is outstanding, some of the best we've heard - "Dance To The Music" a great example, as Kickshaw cops a guitar and drum tone that may even be better than the real thing, and the arrangement is clever. Cool.

Seattle, Washington-based Kickshaw, 5-man Contemporary a cappella group who've been working on their 'Groovalistic-Funkappella' sound since 1996, won first place in the 1997 Pacific NW Harmony Sweepstakes competition, and decided after a great performance at the Finals that they were ready to pursue music full time. "Put It" has 9 songs (and an intro by one of the group member1s little son): "Gavin Intro," "Stand Up," "No," "Pin-Up Girl," "No Tomorrow," "Me Gusta La Musica," "Potatoes and Rice," "The Other Side," "What I Wanted" and "Play!" "Put It" is excellent CD #2, the first was "Superstar." Kickshaw's energetic songs are groove-driven, with crafty vocal arrangements, and they have ability to create the sounds of musical instruments with only their mouths?which makes them a very exciting live group, and "Put It" an a cappella envelope-pushing winner!

America's Favorite Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet has done it again with their fourth CD! 17 deliciously appalling originals and parodies -- plus a gorgeous-beyond-belief videoclip -- all on one fabulous CD. The Kinsey Sicks deliver their sassy take on the GOP in "I Wanna Be A Republican" and "When You're Good To Dubya", offer sage advice with "Rent A Homo" and "Be A Slut", and give Whitney Houston and Cher a run for their money with "I Will Always Love Booze" and "Do You Believe I've Lasted This Long?" With the gorgeous harmonies you love, the tart satire you crave, and the towering hair you fear, The Kinsey Sicks will leave you pleading for more with their spiciest CD yet!

The high-priests of parody, the Kinsey Sicks, have returned to tweak our collective consciousness with provocative chansons such as "Queen of the Nile," "I Will Swallow Him" and "Titanic: Why Does Celine Go On?" The irascible and gender-bending foursome of Winnie, Trampolina, Rachel and Trixie are not content to rest upon their tightly-clad derrieres, after the success of last year's "Dragapella," (and selection as "Audience Favorites" at San Francisco's Harmony Sweepstakes Regionals). Seven tracks recorded live, at their raucous stage-show (19 songs in all). Six originals, including "I Wish You Peace," an ingenuous goodbye to those nearest and dearest to their hearts; this rare break in levity is perhaps the most touching of all.

Yes, this CD is everything the group's name implies, and more! Taking on issues as serious as AIDS and as hilarious as the never-ending pursuit of bodies beautiful (their own or someone else's), this quartet is flagrant in its willingness to gore any sacred cow. The only taste they could be accused of having is musical. The arrangements and harmonies, while not innovative, are perfectly respectable and provide a satisfactory backdrop for the lyrical content. "AZT," a parody of the Jackson Five's "ABC," uses the names of HIV medications in a perfect synchronization of words and rhythm. "Impossible Mission" is a paean to Tom Cruise, "Lifesize Jesus" an homage to Karen Carpenter. The "Kinsey Sicks" theme song is an X-rated group mission statement (Dragapella "puts the sin in syncopation"). The Supremes' "Love Child" is fatally lampooned in "Baster Baby Blues." Dragapella's social satire will be a favorite, no matter your orientation! Songlist

After wowing the crowds at a couple of Harmony Sweepstakes Bay Area Regionals and a West Coast Summit, this highly entertaining quartet went on to a critically acclaimed off-Broadway run with their show "Dragapella." The show was nominated for a prestigious Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics and it: s clear from the 18 new songs that Rachel, Trampolina, Trixie and Winnie have been busy little boy/girls. "You're Scaring Us," sung to the tune of the 5th Dimension's "Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In" is a hilarious anthem to gay men's (and everyone else's) aging horrors. "Cruise People Uglier Than You" goes strangely well with the segue "Don: t Let There Be A Morning After." The ode to a yuppie real estate agent, "Bugle Boy on Avenue B" musically explains why you can't afford your apartment. Then comes the aria to telemarketers "MCI will call y..." to the tune of "Bali Hai." This review is getting verbose, but it could easily be twice as long - this is brilliant, dangerous, funny stuff. We loved the KS live, and we love this CD! Songlist

Listen to the Music
I Can See Clearly Now
Twist and Shout
Oh, Pretty Woman
I Believe I Can Fly
With or Without You
What I Like About You
In My Room
Elvis Medley (Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog, Heartbreak Hotel, Don't Be Cruel, Jailhouse Rock)
Only You
Everlasting Love
It's a Blue World
The Lion Sleeps Tonight
Rockin' Robin
Shout

Unable to afford musical instruments in 1975, the five oldest Knudsen boys, began singing a cappella barbershop-style as a quintet under the direction of their gifted father. Cutting their chops as a quartet in SPEBSQSA competitions as teenagers, the brothers joined again professionally as a quintet as adults. "Believe" is their 7th CD and besides winning the Harmony Sweeps, they have thrilled audiences all over the world and appeared with some of the biggest names in show business. "Believe" is 11 songs, pure classic gospel ("Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," "Be Still My Soul," "The Lord's Prayer," etc), with one exception, the original "Love Times Ten," which is a stone hit and should be on the radio. Light guitar accompaniment on "Love Times Ten," "Nearer My God to Thee," and "Sweet Hour of Prayer." Frankly, we love the Knudsens, they sing with feeling and power, and their live shows and CDs are top-drawer. Excellent, inspirational and recommended

Debut album by world-renowned vocal simcha (joy) group Kol Zimra doing neo-chasidic doo-wop. This contemporary a cappella male vocal group performs the most beloved Hebrew spiritual songs of Abie Rotenberg and introduces three of his new compositions. His music can best be characterized as "soft and sweet." On this recording the often performed solo songs are heard in dynamic a cappella arrangements. The printed lyrics are in Hebrew.

The third release from Jewish a cappella trio Lev Tahor is an assortment of spiritual songs by many of the great contemporary song writers. Selections include pieces by Abie Rotenberg, "Hear our voice Hashem" and the peaceful message from Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, "May there be peace within your wall, serenity within your palaces." The vocalists for this recording are Ari Cukier, Gadi Fuchs and Eli Schwebel with guests Chaim Dovid and Rivie Schwebel. This recording includes English translations.

Moneyman
Boomerang Monkey Of Love
H"Eau
California San Eyed Girl
Love Last
Tell Me What You Want
4U4NOW4LIFE
Sunset Strangler
There Will Be Love
Carry Me Along

Mas Que Nada
Crazy Little Thing Called Love
How Deep Is Your Love
Spain (I Can Recall)
Air On G String
Les Moulins De Mon Coeur
Beyond The Sea
Yiddishe Mamme
Tetri Rashi
Amore No

You Need To Know
Have A Talk with God
I Found A Love In You
Night And Day
I Thought You Cared For Me
Jesus To A Child
My Favorite Things
Northeast Wind
Over The Rainbow
Almost Like Being In Love
Bluesette
Baby I Need Your Loving
What Are You Doing For The Rest Of Your Life?
Northwest Passage

A fabulous live recording of m-pact, one of our favorite pop/jazz vocal ensembles of all time, at Seattle's Triple Door?what a treat!! Since being named 1996-97 Harmony Sweeps champs and Audience Favorite, m-pact has been wowing appreciative audiences all over the world, including several memorable appearances at the West Coast Summit. Finally, the signature sound and eclectic musical tastes of this internationally acclaimed, multi-award-winning vocal sensation are down on plastic. The song selection dances from soaring soul like a marvelous arrangement of Stevie Wonder's "I Wish," "Ain't Nobody," "Still the One" and Willie Dixon's "29 Ways;" and sophisticated jazz like Miles Davis' "All Blues" and the salsa scattish "Northeast Wind;" to fresh pop originals like "u nee 2 no" and the jazzy "found a love in you," written by brilliant alto lead Britt Quentin. The disco tune "Boogie Oogie Oogie" becomes a vocal percussion showcase for Trist Curless' flawless beat-box, and "If We Try" highlights Britt's pure, soaring, almost unbelievable range, as does a jazz interpretation of Cole Porter's "Night and Day." "Live" continues with the jazzy, ultra-hip "What If We Was Cool," a surprising jazz interpretation of the pop anthem "Higher and Higher," and closes with an incongruous, but lovely cover of Bach's "How Shall I Fitly Greet Thee." Everyone who has had the one-of-a-kind experience of seeing and hearing m-pact live, and knows what a gift that is, will appreciate what has been captured on these two discs. Brilliant, stunning, and highly recommended!

Listen to Higher and Higher in Real Audio.

1996 Harmony Sweepstakes winners m-pact are back with this, their second CD. Two new members have joined the group: Britt Quentin and Greg Whipple. Britt's tenor voice-and-soul are shown to impressive advantage in the Earth, Wind & Fire song "Fantasy," the album's only cover. The original songs demonstrate an R&B sensibility, coupled with pop hooks. The standout songs are "Hold On My Heart" and "Without Your Love," which combines great material, a powerhouse vocal (by Greg), and an exceptional bass performance. In general the bass is placed and articulated so that it really fills up the bottom end, and is one of the main reasons this CD feels so good. We expected no less!

Listen to Without Your Love in Real Audio.

Infinito
Giudizi Universali
Lo Per Lei
Cose in Comune
Ogni Mio Istante
Oceano
La Terra De Cachi
qualcosa che non ce
Baila

Fargo, North Dakota, home of the Blenders, produces another top notch a cappella quartet. "Buyin' Time" is an impressive, poised Contemporary CD in the mold of Rockapella and the Coats: strong vocal percussion, tight-as-a-drum arrangements, smooth, perfect harmonies. And that's not all - there's brilliant original songwriting by group members Josh Baesler ("In My Dreams," "Changes" and "Buyin'"), Kevin Taylor (the infectious-hooked "Contemptible" and the Simon & Garfunkle-esque "Someday Soon"), and Brent Thorson ("Your Kisses). Add to that dynamite covers of "Mustang Sally," the Mamas and the Papas' "California Dreamin'," Kenny Loggins' "Footloose" and Van Morrison's "Moondance," and you have something very special. Watch out for these guys!

Listen to "In My Dreams" in Real Audio.

Tidings is yet another great achievement on the part of those four talented singers from North Dakota. This CD comes complete with new arrangements, all written by one of the four members, of 10 of our favorite Christmas carols. Most memorable are "Winter Wonderland," "White Christmas," "I'll Be Home For Christmas," and "Silent Night."

Listen to "I'll Be Home For Christmas" in RealAudio.

The five young men who form Contemporary a cappella group measureXmeasure, slimmed down from the original nine who founded the group at the University of Kansas in 1995, have two successful CDs, "Measure by Measure" and "We're Back," under their belts, and "On Our Own" is an impressive third effort! We like to see the little note, "all music on this CD was created by the voices and appendages of the group," because it usually means there's some butt-kicking vocal percussion, and there's some of the best we've heard here. 11 songs, including some originals, "My Heart," "Live and Learn," "So In Love With You," "Everything" and "On Our Own," and some excellent covers: "Up the Ladder to the Roof," "You Don't Treat Me No Good," "Mustang Sally," "Only You," "Don't Let Your Heart," and finishing, incongruously, by nailing Maurice Durufle's sacred masterpiece, "Ubi Caritas." The group does their own arrangements and has the kind of juice and flair only found in the best Contemporary groups like Rockapella and m-pact. "On Our Own" is one of the best we've heard this year.

From that indie-music oasis, Lawrence, Kansas, come MeasureXMeasure (Measure-by-Measure is how that reads). These five young twenty-something fellows incorporate some hip-hop/dance/electronica energy into their yes, exclusively a cappella contemporary sound, which is also made up entirely of original tunes, save for "Somewhere Over The Rainbow," arranged by the group's own Jeff Smith. This track deserves special mention, both for originality and execution; it's different, strikes the proper balance between economy and surfeit, and is absolutely in tune. If they do this live, it must bring down the house. Not to give an incorrect impression, "Rainbow" is a stylistic anomaly, but the point is that these five bring a measure of skill that is promising indeed. Given that all of the group members write, their originals haven't forged the same distinct personality, but there's a lot of potential here.

Minimum Wage Theme
Kooky the Happy Burger Klown
G-R-I- Double-L
L Histoire de Burgoire
The Last Cowboy Song
All These Dreams
Connecticut
Balls
The 17th Annual Harmony Honey Suckle Shootout Finale!

We had the pleasure of seeing the manic four young men of Utah-based Moosebutter at the recent smash West Coast Summit, first in a showcase concert at Dominican College, and then, by invitation because they were so hilarious, at the Saturday night concert. There are 4 authentic young comic geniuses here, especially Tim Y. Jones, who writes, composes, adapts and arranges practically everything in this CD. There are 17 little delights here, from an ode to tile, "The Happy Tile Cleaner," "Captain Organic Vegetable Man," "Psycho: The Musical," "The Alphabet Song," the amazing "Star Wars Medley" adds words to those deathless heroic theme songs, like "Kiss a Wookiee, kick a droid, fly the Falcon through an asteroid, 'til the Princess gets annoyed," "Ghost Chickens in the Sky," the very funny "Cell Phone," "The Googies," "O Pretty Baby," "Luck o' the Irish," "Turkey Dance," "Jell-O," "He Met Her on the Stairs" and "Spew." This is funny, brilliant stuff, that wowed 'em at the Summit, with crazed sound effect samples, the kind of material that gets a group on morning shows and stages at the Harmony Sweeps Finals!

Listen to "SPAM" in Real Audio.

It has been some time since we received silky-smooth Contemporary Italian all-male sextet Neri Per Caso's first, self-titled CD. It blew us away like a warm Mediterranean breeze, and from the first few bars of "La Raccolta" we can hear that they've only gotten better--smoother, sexier, and the harmonies and vocal percussion richer and more effortless. As the liner notes are all in Italian we still don't understand a word (except for the final cut, a sumptuous cover of Lennon/McCartney's "Here, There and Everywhere), but then again, chocolate gelato melts in your mouth whether you understand the language or not! 17 songs, a lot of originals "Amore Psicologico," "La Ragazze," "Sentimento Pentimento," "Donne," "Quando," "Io Ci Saro"3⁄4these songs simply cook. Four tracks, "Quello Che Vuoi," "Fortuna," "Io Ci Saro" and "Centro Di Gravita Permanente," are also on the debut CD. Most of the second half of the CD, including "Mai Piu Sola," "Appena Un Po A Est," "Sara," "Che Cosa Sei" and "Un Angelo Blu," are intensely accompanied. In their a cappella tunes, NPC is like an Italian Rockapella, if you will--there's a tremendous amount of charisma and talent here, and all we can say is, "recommended!"

Listen to "Amore Psicologico" and "Donne" in Real Audio.

Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic
Play
This Is It
Feel Like Making Love
Loving You
Good Enough (To Love)
Only One
Wrong and Right
Could've Been You
Hey There
Late in the Evening
One More Lonely Night

This is the second CD by the eight young men of the Contemporary group Octappella, and it includes some very impressive original material written by group members, notably "The Voice," "Awe," "When I First Saw You" and "With A Friend," and some wonderful covers, like Kurt Bestor's "Prayer of the Children," "Baldhemian Rhapsody," after Freddie Mercury, Michael Jackson's "I Want You Back" and U2's "MLK." Also beautifully done are "Man in Motion," "In My Dreams" and "Standing Outside the Fire." Excellent vocal percussion, smooth, rich harmonies and what we can only refer to as a depth of feeling, make this CD impressive on many levels, and we can say that it is one of the best Contemporary CDs we've heard this year. Octappella is in "Motion!"

The eight young male members of Octappella, in the first year and a half since they got together, have worked to establish, of course, their own group character and image, but most of all their uniqueness as a group specializing in vocal instrumentation and complex, tight harmonies. Their first CD, "Motion,"and now "The Voice"are proof of how much they have succeeded. There are 14 surprising, harmonic gems on "The Voice,"covers of: "Make Me Lose Control,""Time of Your Life,""Earth Angel/Silhouettes,""Light In Your Eyes,""Greatest American Hero,""That Lonesome Road,""Oh, L'Amour,""Lobster,""Kiss The Girl,""Wildflowers,""Grow Old With Me,""That's What Friends Are For,"the title tune and "Trashin' The Camp."In the areas of artistic interpretation, vocal ability, arrangements and performance personality, Octappella is pushing the a cappella envelope. Listen to "The Voice"and see if you don't agree with us that these eight guys are going places?fast!

Even Better Than The Real Thing
Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own
Angel of Harlem
The Wanderer
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
Stuck In The Moment You Can't Get Out Of
When Love Comes To Town
Tryin' To Throw Your Arms Around The World
Pride (In The Name Of Love)
One
Mysterious Ways

Jerry Lawson, Jayotis Washington, Ray Sanders and Jim Hayes are the legendary Persuasions, and this is 14 of the Fab Four's most popular tunes, done as soulful a cappella doo-wop. The cover is a dramatic and somewhat ironic photo of a crowd of frenzied, screaming white English girls being held back by a wavering line of English bobbies–ironic because of the different receptions and rewards given to contemporary musicians, the veteran Persuasions and the young, white Beatles, both lovers of the same soulful black American R&B. The Persuasions survived, though, to become fathers of a burgeoning a cappella movement, and to bring us another juicy, deep-bassed doo-wop classic. 'Eight Days A Week,' 'Oh! Darling,' 'Come Together,' 'Rocky Raccoon,' 'Octopus's Garden,' 'Love Me Do,' 'With A Little Help From My Friends,' 'From Me To You,' 'Yesterday,' 'Ob La Di, Ob La Da,' 'Don't Let Me Down,' 'The Ballad Of John and Yoko,' 'Imagine' and 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.' This is the real 'Rubber Soul!'

Play That Funky Music
Green-eyed Lady
Reminscing
This Masquerade
I Wish
Pick Up The Pieces
Harlem Nocturne
Fly Away
Drift Away
Only Yesterday
Smiling Face
They Can't Take That Away From Me
Saturday In The Park

Orlando, Florida-based a cappella quartet Return 2 Zero have a repertoire of songs from the 1940s through the 1990s, adding their own dynamic arrangements to classic tunes. They've played for thousands at Disney's MGM Studio and Universal Studios. The new release "He's A Friend" is their third CD, following the excellent "Snowfall" and "Return 2 Zero;" the "he" refers to Jesus as the four men highlight their Christian spirituality. There are 12 songs, "Isn't It Good," "Inside Out," "John's Song," "Who Is Like the Lord Our God?" "Hold On," "I'm Coming Home," "Blessed Are Your Eyes," "Let Him In," "More Than Yesterday," "My Jesus I Love Thee," "Star Spangled Banner" and "Open Our Eyes Lord." Sung with great feeling and conviction, "He's A Friend" is a powerful, beautifully sung statement by 4 talented young men.

Listen to "Isn't It Good?" in Real Audio.

Return To Zero's new Christmas CD is an upgrade to "Our First Christmas." They have added 2 new songs, "Snowfall," the title track, and "When the meadow was Bloomin'," an amazing 8 part arrangement by Marshall Webb. Returning are "Humbug," "We Three Kings," "Carol Of The Bells" (for which Doug Tell won a CASA for best arrangement in 1996), "Here Comes Santa Claus," "Away In A Manger," "Our First Christmas," "What Child Is This?," "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen," "Unto Us" and "We Wish You A Merry Christmas." The elaborate chord structures and unique arranging skills of these guys will put a twist on some of your favorite Christmas songs and will put you right in the Christmas spirit!

Listen to "Merry Christmas To You" in Real Audio.

This contemporary/jazz quartet is from Florida, where they are part of the Disney entertainment complex (performing as "Four For A Dollar"). With arrangements by members Doug Teel and Marshall Webb, their material is proven Top 40 radio fare such as "Fly Like An Eagle," "How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You" and "Turn Your Love Around," with a couple of originals in like vein. That said, the highlight of this CD is Gene Puerling's "Georgia On My Mind," the definitive arrangement, performed with stunning accuracy and taste. Their own charts frequently use substitute chords and unexpected harmonies to open up these familiar songs, infusing them with new vitality. Rhythmically, they combine punch with fluid ease, adding a soulful feel to the mix.

Listen to "Georgia On My Mind" in Real Audio.

The Scales are an all male, 18-strong Bay Area ensemble which first started singing a cappella together in 2000, and, according to their website, "We Hate A Cappella" is their debut CD. 12 manic, high-energy cuts, some favorites are Lennon/McCartney's "Can't Buy Me Love," "I Got Mail," the very funny original by group member Brian Rosen, (who also sings lead), "High Notes." "Stockholm Syndrome" (which focuses on love as a hostage situation), and "Pencil Boy" (where our hero and Crayon Girl are "drawn together") also Rosen originals, strong covers of Steely Dan's "Reelin' In The Years," the Doo-Wop standard "I Only Have Eyes For You" and the Disco hit "Love Machine;" and finally the oddly compelling, fairly silly title tune, also a Rosen original. "We Hate" is a strong, funny debut recording with an attitude by 18 very creative, talented guys - give it a listen!

Listen to "I Got Mail" in Real Audio.

From the first notes of "Little Mary Snowflake," as the Rockapella sound washes over our eager ears, we notice a subtle change that becomes much more obvious in the next cut, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." There's a new member of the group, George Baldi (replacing Barry Carl) who sings a growly-mean deep bass on a tight scat-percussion solo. Next comes a couple of new songs, the sweet, romantic "Merry Christmas Darling" and "Love and the Lights." George sings a delicious Crosby-esque lead on the classic "I'll Be Home For Christmas." Then another fresh new Christmas song with some soaring Rockapella blends, "This Christmas Day." One of our favorites, "There's No Place Like Home For the Holidays," is sung as a jazzy, doo-woppy thing with a vocal Salvation Army band solo. "Please Come Home For Christmas," a soulful bluesy lament, features George's hilarious Elvis "romantic mumbling" parody. An upbeat, moving "Rock Around The Christmas Tree" has some surprising harmonic whistling. A driving "Snow Star," another sweet new song, "Peace on Earth," and finally "It's A Small World" is Rockapellized, with sampling, vocal percussion and that sublime, soaring trademark harmony. We loved Rockapella's first Christmas CD, and we love "Comfort!"

Listen to "It's A Small World" in Real Audio.

The title says it all - this is a cheerful and buoyant CD, one that speaks to the simple pleasures of summer.  As chief writer Scott Leonard says in "Smile In My Heart": "no more dark days, only summer always."  Rockapella's polished harmonies and solidly-crafted arrangements have always conveyed a fundamental stability - no unexpected dissonance, no gratuitous notes or an intonation falling short.  Here, with the addition of new bass vocalist George Baldi, who takes over for the much loved Barry Carl (the two share the bass registers on this CD), the band consolidates their quintessential American appeal with songs such as "Shambala," "Dance With Me," "Summertime Blues" and "Surfin' Safari."  Two slower numbers, "Lazy River" and Elliott Kerman's "No Doubt At All,"  conjure up reminiscences of lazy hot evenings, the relaxed swing feel a gentle reminder of generations past.  So leave your cares behind with Rockapella and smile!

Listen to Dance With Me and Shambala

One of our most favorite groups (who don't need any introduction, we're sure) graces this holiday season with a dozen songs which cover the entire spectrum of aural moods from past to present. Opening with a sweetly lilting "I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day" which captures the traditional spirit with only a touch of Rockapellan embellishment we proceed to a Thatcherized (clever light vocal percussion), upbeat, Scott Leonard song which has one wondering just which year it became a big hit. It did, didn't it? It must have, it just sounds so familiar. We immediately are segued into an almost vaudevillian "Glow Worm/It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" medley. Through beautiful tradition and several of Scott Leonard's original compositions our heart strings are plucked to a fare-the-well. At the end of this grand recording we have Scott's "Hold Out for Christmas" which has only been released prior to this CD on one of the Rockapella Japanese imports. Then are sent off with our harmony hats in hand by Barry Carl's unbelievable bass and Jeff Thatchers pyrotechnics on "You're a Mean One Mr. Grinch." This seasonal recording will add a sparkle of joy to your holiday.

Listen to "Winter Wonderland" in Real Audio.

The release of a new Rockapella CD is an event, a happening, a momentous occasion! Riding high with the excitement generated from their Folger's commercials, these five gifted performers have readied a bumper crop of originals, and included their signature jingles as well. As the most popular and professional of contemporary a cappella groups, Rockapella's sound is readily identifiable, completely polished, and ever buoyant. Produced by Scott Leonard, who wrote or co-wrote most of the songs, each track will feel immediately familiar, due to the consistency of the Rockapella style. Whether the Latin groove of "Doorman Of My Heart," the classically pretty melody of "People Change" or the upbeat "This Isn't Love," the arrangements are saturated with thick harmonies, a luxuriant backdrop that, along with the pulse of vocal percussionist Jeff Thacher, are the quintet's trademark. "Tempted," the sultry rock/soul hit made famous by the English group Squeeze, is the CD's only cover, and it's an outstanding choice. Rockapella is bringing a cappella into the mainstream, and "2" can only further their reputation.

Tight.  Exciting.  Explosive.  This is Rockapella, circa 1999: the freshest, most contemporary vocal band sound ever, and new tracks:  "Hold Out For Christmas," and "Moments of You," (the latter song never before released in the U.S.) .  The remaining songs were on their "Rockapella" self-titled CD, but have been given a new sheen and a boost in production values.  Featuring the charismatic presence of Scott Leonard and the fiery vocal percussion of Jeff Thacher-providing the current that throws the switch on the Rockapella sound-the group has melded into a force that is undeniable.  Their popularity owes much to solid songwriting: classic harmonic progressions that are new, yet familar at the same time, and arrangements that saturate the ear, as in "So Much Better,"  "I'll Hear Your Voice" and "I Am Your Man."  Rockapella's notes stack up in perfect formation, creating a Spectoresque "wall-of-sound";  this precision, where each note is crafted and placed, performing its specific role in relation to the other, creates a brilliance of tone that soaks right into the skin.  To listen to Rockapella is to be converted to their musical message, which has been impressing listeners throughout the world since they sprung to fame on the PBS children's program, "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?" We have consistently included them in our Hall of Fame; this new song, from their current CD is a mixture of old and new material.  We are most definitely the converted! Their many live radio appearances-Rockapella are favored guests of the "Mark and Brian" show on KLOS, and the "Scott and Todd" program on WPLJ-have created a demand that is unheard of in a cappella, and is threatening to break free of earth's gravity.  Don't miss this one!

If Bobby McFerrin were to look over his shoulder, he'd probably see Sam Rogers, One Mouth Jazz Band. Forest Knolls, CA-based Sam stands up in front of a microphone provides vocal (and physical, as in slaps, snaps and thumps with his hands) percussion, background vocals, fake horns and scat singing for a surprising demonstration of the capabilities and possibilities of the human voice. 12 tracks, all recorded live before appreciative audiences, some at San Rafael, CA's Belrose Theater and some at Sebastopol, CA's Powerhouse Brewing Co.: 'One Mouth Band,' Steve Miller's 'Fly Like An Eagle,' 'Another Dollar' (an original by Sam), 'Autumn Leaves,' 'Till There Was You,' 'Use Me,' 'I Can't Love You For Much Longer' (another Sam original), 'Angel Eyes,' 'Improv: First Time' (original), 'Walking In Your Footsteps,' 'Improv: Mental Drift' (original), and 'Moody's Mood for Love.' Jazzman Sam and his great set of lungs are pushing the a cappella envelope!

Listen to "Autumn Leaves" in Real Audio.

Put on your Hawaiian threads and prepare to get lei'd because Shakapella has arrived to the main 48. Shaka is island slang meaning "be cool", "take it easy ", and of course "hang loose". Not too hard to figure out the mission of this vocal sensation. Most of the guys met while singing with the Sounds of Aloha Chorus and the other guys were in the right bar at the right time. Rich harmonies, vocal excellence and a cool attitude make this debut a delicious one. "Move those hips a little with "Shakapella Groove" and "Shaka The Moon". Can you guess which song "Honolulu Girls" parodies? "The Way You Make Me Feel", "I Can See Clearly Now", "Sixty Minute Man" and "Down On The Corner" are all familiar tunes with a local flavor. No pitch pipe needed here, cuz these guys are right on key.

I Can't Break Away
Dreamer
Brown Eyed Girl
One Sweet Thing
Weakness
One Woman
Carla's Reality
Single Grain of Sand
Back of my Mind
In Absence
Angel Dust
Put A Little Love in Your Heart

The Standards are five brothers from Idaho, who have united in a winsome combination of talent and personality. Though performing about half self-penned originals in the pop/contemporary vernacular, the group also covers R & B songs such as "Lean On Me" and doo-wop standards such as "Sixteen Candles." They are between 17-24 in age, but they have been singing together and refining their raw talent since 1994. They obviously have been influenced by modern a cappella vocal bands, as well as the soul singers of previous eras. Their choreography and blend wowed the Sweepstakes audience! Songlist

Bathrooms are great places to sing and the Standards can surely attest to the fine acoustics of the white porcelain as this is where they began one mid 90's summer. No Silent Corners is jam packed with tight harmonies and smooth dynamics. "California Dreamin'," "My Girl," "More Than Words" "Just My Imagination" and "Sweet Emotion" are great covers, but it's the Standards originals that deserve hootin' hollerin' ovations. "Shake It Up" is real groovy and will keep the body in motion. "Because She" is a beautiful ballad dedicated to the woman in any man's dreams. "Be Somebody" is a sample of The Standards "best come shining through." You will love "Running To That Place" and "Life Is Good."

Low Rider
Dance to the Music
I'll Still be Loving You
Your Love
Wrapped Up In You
One Voice
Midnight Daze
American Woman
When I'm Sixty Four
Mayberry
He Still Loves Me
Show Me the Way

The five young men of T Minus 5 got their first glimpse of fame in spring, 2000 in Ogden, Utah, winning a Weber State U. talent show. Having only been a group for one year, they entered and won the 2001 Harmony Sweepstakes Denver Regional against tough competition and went on to win "Audience Favorite" at the Finals in San Rafael. They have been on a performing rampage ever since, their energy and humor winning them new fans wherever they go. There are 16 live cuts on "Alive," some favorites: "Red Neck Avenger" (which wowed the crowd at the '01 Finals), Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl," Paul Simon's "Cecilia," Bono's "All I Want," Sly Stone's "Dance to the Music," Ben E. King's "Stand By Me," "Best Years of Our Lives," "Lean On Me" and "Down to the River to Pray." T Minus 5's forte is live performance?just listen to the audience response on "Alive." Great stuff!

We had the pleasure of hearing the 6 male voices of T Minus 5 at the 2001 Harmony Sweeps Finals, where they performed as Rocky Mountain Regional Champs. The tight harmonies, country flavor and humor that wowed the crowd that night are present in spades on åAnd Counting. In fact, "You Can Depend On Me," "Grow Old With You," the hilarious "Redneck Avenger," "Welcome To The Jungle" (which sounds suspiciously like "The Lion Sleeps Tonight"), and "Pie Jesu" were all part of their electric 12-minute performance. "Best Years of our Lives," from "Shrek," "I Love You," "Precious Lord," Paul Simon's "You Can Call Me Al," U2's "All I Want," John Fogerty's classic "Down On The Corner" and "Pie Jesu"; it's all good stuff. The guys are having fun up there, letting it all hang out with the confident spirit of born performers. One of the most impressive first CDs we've heard!

The five young men in California-based Three 5 and 6 have only been singing together since October 2000; but individually they have performed professionally for years throughout the United States and Europe. Collectively, they have performed on over 30 albums covering styles ranging from gospel and jazz to rap and hip-hop. "Urban A Cappella" is their debut CD, Gospel in message, and jazz, rap and hip-hop in style. 14 mostly original songs, some of our favorites: "radiant love," "strong enough," Stevie Wonder's "higher ground," "gotta get him," the rhythmic gem "universal beat box," the powerful "unity" (written the day after September 11th), "just a minute (extended)," "can you feel it?," the salvation from drugs testimonial "cold turkey," and the beautifully arranged hymn "stand up, stand up." Strong vocal percussion, smart street words, a fresh, spirited sound: "Urban" is an amazing, innovative debut Gospel CD!

I Think I Love You
Find the Cost of Freedom / Southern Cross
I Feel Fine
Ariel
Brown-Eyed Girl
Unchained Melody
Sweet Talkin' Woman
Rock the Boat
Down by the Salley Gardens
Helen
Viva Las Vegas
Wild Thing
I Need You

The Tone Rangers sound as though a group of barbershop singers felt the restrictions and formality of that style was too confining and collectively expanded their horizons first to seven singers and then to a wider variety of popular styles. Their tight, close harmony lends credence to this supposition. Additional clues are the beautiful version of "Loch Lomond" (beautiful tenor lead) and "Shenandoah." Then they go wacky with Al Yankovic's "One More Minute," "My Tzatzkele" and the live gag tune, "Rubber Duckie." Gospel and doo-wop arrangements round out the play list of familiar popular songs.

Gone, Gone, Gone
Just One Of Those Days
Sail Away
Very Same Place
Somebody Like You
Highway Patrol
Something Beautiful
Where Does the Money Come From
Rainin' You
That Old Pair Of Jeans
If I Can Dream

As we listen to hot Contemporary quartet Tonic's wonderful cover of Willie Dixon's "29 Ways To My Baby's Door," it's clear that these four attractive, hard-working, personable young men (down from 5) have many more than 29 ways to please audiences! We'd havee to count their tour schedule of hundreds of energetic, live, sold-out shows in 32 states that feature pop hits, country songs, classic oldies, award-winning originals, parodies and audience interaction. Then we'd have to add some winning CDs like "By Request," "Red Vinyl," "Style," "Sugarue," "Left Turn In Cross Traffic" and others. And last, but far from least, we have to add the 12 songs of "Boston to Beijing," Mark, Shaun, Greg and Jared's latest and best. Nashville's powerful Vivaton Records, with their substantial backing, state of the art recording studio, have decided the boys are stars (which we have known all along), and "Boston" is getting serious mention in the mainstream media. Six originals, the very top-40 title tune, "Sleep On," "Who Wants to Go," "Oklahoma Wind" (which is a country hit waiting to happen), "So Easy" and "Other Side of Town." Add a poignant cover of "Chances," Wayne Kirkpatrick's "It's Me Again," a rock-solid, funky arrangement of the Doobie's "Takin' It To The Streets" and J.D. Crowley's song of faith, "Grace," which has the refrain, "It was Grace that brought me here." Yes, but the touring, recording and everything Tonic has done to turn themselves into some of most exciting, audience-pleasing a cappella singers on the planet also helped and we couldn't be happier for them! Some non-vocal percussion, but who cares—"Boston" is one of the best a cappella CDs of the year.

Listen to "Who Wants To Go?" in RealAudio.

One of our favorite Contemporary groups, Greg, Shaun, Mark and Jared have been coming up with great CDs since 1996's "Left Turns"–particularly fine are 1997's Christmas album, "Carol," 2001's "Style," 2002's "Sugarue" and 2003's "Red Vinyl." We look at "By Request" as yet another showpiece of why Tonic is one of the most dynamic a cappella groups in the world, and why they need to be recognized as major stars! The 10-song songlist in the liner notes is presented as a Top 40 Radio Requests list, with five new songs, "Chances," Chips' "At The Dark End of the Street," "Until Forever's Gone," Josh Turner's "Long Black Train," and Willie Dixon's smoking "29 Ways to My Baby's Door." The guys simply nail "29," one of the best songs we've heard this year. The other five, Simon & Garfunkle's "Cecelia," Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl," the manic country hit "Sold," Marty Robbins' western classic "El Paso," and "Scooby Doo, Where Are You?" have appeared on other CDs, but they are well-chosen hits, surely some of group's best stuff. Top-drawer arrangements, and a depth of sound amazing for a quartet—"By Request" is another impressive winner for Tonic Sol-Fa!

Listen to "29 Ways to My Baby's Door" in RealAudio.

Paving their rising career with excellent CDs, from 1996's "Left Turns," "Carol," ('97), 2001's "Style," 2002's Xmas CD "Sugarue" to "Red Vinyl," TSF, one of our favorite Contemporary groups, may have found their breakthrough CD. Ten songs, all originals by group member Shaun Johnson except for a strong cover of "A Little Less Conversation," "Red" features some of the best vocal percussion we've heard, smooth, rich harmonies?there's not a weak cut on the CD