October 22, 2005

Whiffenpoofs - Dragonfish

The Whiffenpoofs, 14 talented young Yale undergraduates, are 2005's version of the oldest collegiate a cappella group in the US, founded in 1909, "Whiffenpoof" being a mythical "Dragon fish" appearing in a Broadway musical called "Little Nemo," based on the brilliant Art Nouveau color comic strip "Little Nemo in Slumberland" by Winsor McCay. In any case the 'Poofs have always been one of our favorite, and funniest collegiate groups. 18 songs, beginning with the lusty Bohemian Marching gong "Aj, Lucka, Lucka, Siroka" and finishing with the butter-smooth harmonies of "The Whiffenpoof Song," a noir heartbreaker we always associate with soldiers of the two World Wars. In between are a jazzy "Bye Bye Blackbird," a funny, surprising arrangement of "The Girl from Ipanema," innovative arrangements of Cole Porter's "Too Darn Hot," Bob Marley's "Waiting In Vain," Irving Berlin's "Steppin' Out With My Baby," "Midnight Train to Georgia" and Lambert, Hendricks & Ross' "Little Pony." There's a nice Whiff original, "Time After Time," a pair of James Taylor covers, "You Can Close Your Eyes" and "New Hymn" and the poignant "I'll Be Seeing You." 18 spirited, finely-crafted tunes. "Dragonfish" is an impressive collection from a wonderful a cappella tradition at Yale, as strong and vital now as in its beginnings. 1757c CD 14.98
Listen to "I'll Be Seeing You"

Posted by acapnews at October 22, 2005 12:59 AM