All My Friends Think They're Instruments

Walking the Dog

2009-05-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

I have a huge aca-crush on Mouth Off. It's not like I didn't know that Dave and Christopher were brilliant before, but this concise podcast warms my heart like my mother's cobbler-- they are charming and sometimes awkward, effusive--yet amusingly so, and tactfully critical of their subject(s)--- about which they are well-informed and thoughtful. They make me laugh at the office, and that's difficult.

Things their podcast made me think about:

1. The gents laud the Bubs' version of NIN's "All the Love in the World" as being very raw, but I think it's not gritty enough. The song sounds like Robbie Williams to me, and that's not what I'm looking for in a NIN song.

2. Speaking of artists on the Bubs album, both The Format AND NIN have a song called "Closer." They are very different songs. I have heard neither a cappella.

3. If I were to create an a cappella cover album (like Sir Folds), I wouldn't mind listening to an album of the following:

The Format
1990s female One-to-Two Hit Wonders (Robyn, anyone?)
Radiohead
Rufus Wainwright
Phoenix
New Pornographers/ Neko Case
Sigur Ros

I think that the last one could be particularly gorgeous, esp. in the hands of the Divisi or Noteworthy (either) girls.

4. I miss Nate Ruess. I miss the Format. I've seen them live 4 (5?) times, and every time was just...special. I'm not kidding. I'm making a pouty face right now. It drives me up the wall that most people have discovered them post break-up, when I spent Freshman year of college telling everyone to buy their album. I also tried to make everyone love The Botticellis. Check out their Daytrotter session here.

Regarding Nate's new band, Fun, I'm split. Jack Antonoff is swell. I like Steel Train, I like his sister's clothing line, I like that he dates Maeby from Arrested Development... but I don't like that they've been around for a bit and haven't made it to the Midwest. The new music sounds, well, fun. I await the album in August with bated breath.

5. It frustrates me that my old a cappella group is putting so many tired songs on their next record. They have been playing with some of my indie favorites, but decided against recording them; the safer, well known songs will be recorded and mixed. Even more interesting music was scrapped at the suggestion phase (including Eisley's "Invasion"). I'm trying to be a judgemental alum, and I'm not biased-- one of the overdone songs happens to be one on which I sang the solo-- I just wish they would take more risks across the board. There will be 4 different incarnations of the group on this record, and I'd like it to represent us well.

I suppose I should be grateful-- at least they're staying away from Nickelback.

6. I wish Christopher Diaz and Dave Brown lived in my living room instead of my roommate's stupid dog. It smells bad and goes INSANE when I listen to a cappella. No joke. Runs up and down the hallway.

7. Worst syllable(s) I've ever had to sing? Other than an entire song of "Jn jn jn jn jn ja jn jn jn ja?" No, that was easily my own personal version of hell. The best? "vvvvvvvvvv" (a bee buzz) for almost 3 pages of music. IF I remember correctly, the sopranos were singing "wop wop wop wop."

8. I also miss The Blonde One. Hi, Blondie.

Good Day

2009-04-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

It's Friday and I am listening to vocal jazz and Jukebox the Ghost. This entry was almost titled "Lighting Myself on Fire," but some of you probably wouldn't find that nearly as entertaining as I do (in my brain, it is similar to every time I use superglue and end up attached to things/myself).

Everyone is talking lately about the a cappella Ben Folds album. It's neat. I've given it many a listen, and it turned out exactly how I thought it would... sort of. There are a few songs that make me press the "skip" button (mostly because I don't like the soloist), but overall it's an enjoyable listen. There were actually 18 songs recorded for the CD-- here are the videos of the songs that didn't make it on the finished product.

"Missing the War" All Night Yahtzee

I'll just say this: I love Yahtzee. When I was applying to college, FSU offered me a full ride, and this group has made me wish on more than one occasion that I would've accepted... just to have auditioned for them. Love the arrangement, love the group, love the Diaz.

"Annie Waits" Blue Notes of Wellesley College

"Cigarette" The Lady Bens

(note: I am mildly afraid of puppets)

"Zak and Sara" Treble in Paradise of American University

Love Me Do (Re, Mi)

2008-10-16T13:49:00.000-07:00

Why this blog is dead:

1) I am afraid of people yelling at me for being anonymous. This is, admittedly, because I don't know as much as the yellers from RARB. I also really like them and dislike most of the anons at whom they yell. Don't want to join that club.

2) We are doing the following: grad school, co-habitation, singing with a band, long distance relationships, singing hooks on a rap album, writing, having red hair, hating leggings, committing voter fraud, singing a cappella, living up North/ down South/ Midwestern-like, learning a foreign language, *blinging*, going to four hundred-y weddings, running, watching our sports teams hurt our hearts, blogging elsewhere, pregnant. We are, therefore, busy.

3) More busy: 100% of us are in relationships. 100% of those relationships happen to be 100% full of a cappella people. And in case you were wondering, there isn't a tenor in the bunch.

4) James Cannon stopped gnawing on baby skulls.

5) Speaking of babies, I lied about one and/or all of us being preggers. However, I would like to use this moment to challenge The Wise One and The Blonde One to BABY-OFF 2008!!!!111!!!!. First one to pop out a munchkin is entitled to dinner and a night of reallly bad kareoke on the other two.

6. That was a joke. This leads me to another reason I, specifically, am not writing: the lack of funny.

7. The unintentional hilarity of the other a cappella blog makes our little estrogen festival (est-fest) seem completely scandel-less... unless you count the still-angry Emmy Rossum fans.

8. Sarah Palin.

Hate To Say I Told You So

2008-08-09T16:39:00.000-07:00

Who knew? This girl.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/151737

Secret Someones- Laura Veirs

2008-07-05T14:48:00.000-07:00

I have gossip!

A very well-known weekly news publication is producing a video segment about post-collegiate a cappella. I am currently not at liberty to say which ::ahem:: weekly news ::ahem:: publication and what groups are involved (a lady protects her sources), but this is big and pretty freakin' cool. Look for it within the next month, and be sure to support your local post-collegiate a cappella groups. If you do-- make sure your hair looks good.

Seen any good shows this summer?

Mahna Mahna

2008-07-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

I don't particularly like the 4th of July. This does not make me un-American or a terrorist. I just have sensitive ears and think it would be more patriotic if all the money put towards fireworks would instead go to our education systems. HOWEVA.

I know it looks like Animal is playing drums, but it's really VP. The only thing that could make this video better would be Ralph the dog. He's hot.

The A Cappella Bop

2008-06-27T20:49:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, I went karaoke-ing with a friend from my former collegiate a cappella group and a bunch of his friends from work. We went to a very nondescript bar in a slightly seedy part of Chinatown - not necessarily a place I would go to again, but fine for a casual non-serious karaoke evening (which of course, being former a cappella singers, we do have.)

As we were sitting at the bar watching other people sing, we'd comment on their song choice and harmonize along under our breaths. When one girl got up to sing, I didn't notice anything about her while listening; she had a nice enough voice. But then, when I looked closer, I totally saw it.

"Hey, that girl was in an a cappella group."
"What? How do you know?"
"She's doing the a cappella bop."
"What?"
"Look how she's bopping side-to-side. She was in an a cappella group."
"No way."
"Go ask her."

So after the song, he went up and asked her, and came back to the bar head-in-hands.

"All-female at Princeton. Tigerlilies."
"I told you!"
"[The Wise One], it's sick that you knew that."
"I know."

No More (The Dirty Projectors)

2008-06-19T21:15:00.000-07:00

I am having one of those months where I don't like a cappella. I don't know what my lady-friends will use as their excuse for not writing, but I just don't care about the scene right now. Maybe when I see the Hyannis Sound this summer I will find a renewed love. A cappella: it's not you, it's me.

Things I do like: Ladytron, The Wombats, Switches, mmmmthenewPortisheadalbum, and LOVELOVELOVE for The Presets.

Things I do not like: heat, the horror that is the Scarlett Johansson album (sorry David Bowie), and waiting for the weekend.

Summer travel: Nashville, New York, Chicago, Boston,St Louis, Iowa City, Champaign, Madison, Philly. All are subject to change.

Oh, and I'll just post this in response to the last few e-mails I received via g-mail: I won't share my a cappella music. I would want you to buy my group's cd/ individual songs, so I feel like it's totally uncool to give out someone else's hard work for free. So please don't ask.

Off to a luau I'm throwing. Aloha

Holy Roller

2008-05-25T12:12:00.001-07:00

I went to a southern church today for the first time. There was a peculiar moment during the sung offertory where I thought, "If that soprano was in my a cappella group, we'd be having a serious discussion about blend and when it is appropriate to make up parts."

I am officially a bad person.

In other news, there are some things I really can't get used to in the South. For example: Last night at a piano bar, I couldn't finish my whiskey and diet coke because it was A) too strong and B) I'd already had four. So our resident southern girl offered it to the guy at the table next to us! In St Louis or Chicago this would be out of the question (roofies much?)... but the gentleman grinned, took a swig, and cheered to us. Carazy.

Requests

2008-04-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have it on good authority that Rockapella's contracts state that the following items must be provided for each member in the green room before the show:

- 6 chocolate PowerBars each
- Nature Valley peanut butter crunchy granola bars
- cases of diet Mountain Dew

And that they really do POUND the diet Mountain Dew.

April Anne-- Okkervil River

2008-04-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

Not that it really has anything to do with a cappella, but I think it really sucks that it's gorgeous in the midwest today... and I am sick. Chords hurt, deep cough that aches in my gut, nasty gunk in my throat. Blech.

I had the "it's really over" talk last night with my ex (LTT- long-term tenor). He's heading off to graduate school in the fall, and I'm not following. Heavy stuff, right? We broke up many moons ago, but I think a lingering, long-distance friendship with someone you really care about doesn't leave much room for moving on... at least in his case. Yesterday seemed to be extremely final, and when his solos kept randomly coming on my computer... I knew today was going to be rough. Did I mention we used to sing in the same group? Strange, but I find some solace in knowing we'll both likely come back for the annual concert... and that is one bond that really can't be shattered.

LESS SAD PLUG:
Not that many people in the NY area read this anymore, but if you're anywhere near Rochester this weekend, I recommend catching the Midnight Ramblers' 10th anniversary show on Saturday. They're awesome, they have a ton of people going back, and (ahem) those are some good looking boys. Go... then tell me how it is.

Also, the Clefs are having their 30th on April 14th with yummy Brendan James. It's also on the 19th, but I'm sure you'll all be at ICCA finals that night... right?

Any thoughts, btw, on the CARAs? I actually am very "eh" about the best mixed soloist choice, but I know that everyone and their grandmother is obsessed with Donna OTBudica. I have more thoughts, but I think it might be best for me to hit up the DayQuill. Love and chords that lock!

Even the New York Times Is Jumping On the Bandwagon

2008-03-21T23:19:00.000-07:00

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/23/fashion/23acappella.html?ref=fashion

Frequent RARB forum posters Deke Sharon and Sara Yood quoted in this Sunday Styles column about collegiate a cappella.

Results from Midwest Semis

2008-03-21T16:34:00.000-07:00

Ok... so I've read the RARB forum posts on the event, and I don't actually have my notes with me at this very moment, but I have something to say:

Purple. Haze. Was. Amazing. Gasp-worthy. Yum-tastic. Wowsers.

Sure, they had the homecourt advantage. The sound system left a lot to be desired, and some of the groups had some troubles with projection/balance/movement/hitting the mics with their hands. HOWEVER-- PH deserved their win. I wrote after listening to their arrangement of "Samson": This is my favorite song of the night, and we are less than 7 minutes in. I love this girl's voice, and I am really hard on female soloists. I think this should win best arrangement.

And it didn't. But overall, they won and deserved it (AHEM, Jer, AHEM). Why? Because their blend was something I have not heard in a collegiate group in a VERY long time. Because they were consistant. Because every chord locked, every moment was captivating. Because their movement was appropriate. Because they clearly are invested in repping the Midwest:Co-ed style. Because they are bout-it bout-it.

Xchords should've won for choreo, no questions asked. They also chased first place with a fervor; I think they won in the hearts of the audience-- not easy, with a room full of Northwesterners. These boys are talented, good looking, relatively tall, and HILARIOUS. They were extremely entertaining and engaging, and EVERY SINGLE ONE was invested in his own/the group's performance. Other than PH, they were the only group that could say that. A little bird tells me that one of the judges DID NOT RANK THEM in his top 3. What?! Granted, the arrangement of "Chasing Cars" left a bit to be desired for me in the creative department (Blondie agrees with me), and their chords did not always lock. But they were ranked a firm and VERY close second. Even if this peculiar judge had ranked them, the point totals would still not have helped them win over PH... but I do think it peculiar that (NOTE: UPCOMING INFORMATION COMES FROM A POSSIBLY UNRELIABLE SOURCE) one single judge would feel so differently from the other four. I wished feverishly for a tie here-- I would have loved to see the boys go on to finals in New York.

Best soloist? Antuwan Stanley of the D&J has the pipes of a g-d.. but if they'd given out one for best female vocal/ most commanding performance... it was obviously Catherine Brookman for "Samson". She also arranged it. Catherine Brookman: I doubt you read this, but I not-so-secretly want to be your friend so we can harmonize on girly roadtrips and talk about musicals.

::::EDIT: Blondie, please do not be hurt or upset. I did not say "best friend" and I did not ask her to sing Donna Summer/Barbra Streisand. I did not say "sushi roadtrip." I did not include any mention of gossiping about stupid-all-male-groups that-stupid-want-to-stupid-get-in-stupid-pants.There is really only you, my dear.::::

I agreed with best perc-- Cam Branson is one smooth operator.

One more thing before I head off to finish a novel and Friday-night-frolic: I wanted to cry during the Beartones performance. After seeing their near-flawless set at the semis at Washington University in St Louis, I expected these boys to be seated comfortably in the top 3 (My pre-show rankings were 1. Xchords 2. PH 3. Btones)... but apparent illness seemed to lead to a loss of energy in their Rascal Flats number, and there were some tuning issues on the last two songs. Still, JR Neal of the Beartones was one of the best performers of the night with his honest performance of "Apologize". Maybe it's just because I find him adorable (as did the ladies behind me!)... but you can't take your eyes off that boy when he is singing.

On that note-- have a good weekend! I'll be seeing you in New York.

Early Results from the Washington University Midwest ICCA Quarterfinal

2008-02-23T21:19:00.000-08:00

1st Place: MSU Beartones
2nd Place: MSU A Cub Bella
3rd Place: Wash U. Stereotypes

More details to come when our correspondents have a moment to discuss!

EDIT:

After seeing semi-finals, I can strongly say that BOTH the Washington University Stereotypes AND the Mosaic Whispers were stronger than some of the semi-final groups. I also know from seeing the Rip Chords numerous times in the past calendar year that they are consistently better than most of the semi-finalists.

The lesson learned from this? Have more open availability and submit your applications to the ICCAs EARLY. The quarterfinals are set up using the available weekends of each group and the proximity to the event. I'm guessing the producers WANT to make the most balanced quarterfinals possible so that the best groups end up at semis, but sometimes that just doesn't happen. Serious case in point? The West region this year... although I hear that the SoCalVocals deserved all the credit they got.

More on semis later.

Another Sara B Update

2008-02-21T12:16:00.000-08:00

"Love Song", the hit single from singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, ranked 2nd in digital single sales in January. The song from her recently released album "Little Voice" sold 571,000 downloads in the month. At the end of January, it had sold nearly 1.2 million downloads since released.

-Nielsen SoundScan

Instant Recognition

2008-02-19T20:14:00.000-08:00

This morning, I did something radical for me. Instead of obsessively culling my favorite of-the-moment songs for my 1st generation iPod shuffle (what, I'm poor, shut up) I let iTunes auto-fill it for me.

After a hilarious session of "The End" by the Beatles followed by Audra MacDonald's "Baby Moon" and then a whole bunch of oldies (think "Incense and Peppermints") I hit upon something fun: a song I'm pretty sure I hadn't listened to in about five years, but was able within literally 5 seconds to peg it as a Brown Derbies recording. There's just something about those "ber ner"s that's a Derby trademark.

So my question is this: which collegiate groups have a sound so distinct that you can guess it correctly within seconds? I'm pretty limited, and can only claim the Derbies, the Bubs (most of the time), Wisconsin MadHatters (I was kind of in love with one of them for a while) and all of the groups at my alma mater.

What groups are so unique that you'd be able to pick out their recording even if you'd never heard them sing the song?

Look, ma, no mics!

2008-02-17T18:48:00.001-08:00

It's Oxford Out of the Blue's performance of "Shake Ya Tailfeather" from the Oxford Quarterfinal. Out of the Blue won first with 372 points.

This performance won the Oxford Belles' Oyinkansola Johnson-Sherlock the Outstanding Choreography award:

(video credits to simonootb)

So, I'm not really that British.

2008-02-16T23:13:00.000-08:00

I mean, I guess I kind of am, I do live here now, but I got my start in a cappella back in the states. The UK ICCAs were one of my first opportunities to check out the collegiate scene on this side of the pond. I hadn't seen any of these groups live yet since I don't live near Oxford, the a cappella capital of Britain. It was well worth the train ride.

I had participated in a few US ICCAs, so I was especially curious to see if there were any major differences between how the countries run their competitions. There were really only two differences that I could see.

First, in most of the ICCAs I've attended, the hosts have been another a cappella group, usually from the host university. At the Oxford competition, our host was a young man named Marc Vastenavondt, an OOTB alum, there to "belt showtunes at an unsuspecting audience," according to the program. It took me until his judging period set to figure out what his speaking voice actually sounded like, since he seemed to use "funny" accents throughout the first half of the show. His set was very entertaining, especially when he encouraged everyone to do VP along to his off-the-cuff rendition of "Midnight Train to Georgia." I'm not sure whether it's tradition to have a solo host in the UK or not, but it could simply be the case that all of the other Oxford groups were competing (which was very cool in itself).

The other, bigger difference was judges' feedback. Rather than giving each group their judging sheets after the announcements, the three judges gave verbal feedback to each group onstage before announcing the winners. They mentioned some things that all groups could work on (balance between soloist and block, more uniformity in dress), and
then went through the groups individually, describing what they liked and didn't like about each set. I'm sure the performers must have been nervous about this portion of the evening, but everyone handled it with class and good spirits.

Other than those differences, it was the same spirit of ICCA that we know and love in the States: the obvious hard work and rehearsal that had led up to the evening, the high energy performances, the spirit of all the groups seeing their work pay off, and the enthusiasm from the audience. It was quite a night.

I've made some notes about each set -- just my opinion. I've starred the song that was my favorite of the three. You (and the judges) may disagree.

IN THE PINK (Oxford)

1. We Will Rock You
2. A Nightengale Sang in Berkeley Square *
3. ABBA Medley

Dress: Black tops, pink skirts, black stockings

These ladies have clearly worked hard to put together a set that shows off both their energy and their musicality. Their best song, "A Nightengale Sang in Berkeley Square," was a sensitive performance with attention to dynamics and tuning. I particularly appreciated the lovely blonde soprano whose name I didn't catch, both in "Nightengale" and in her duet featured in the ABBA medley. While the medley and their opener "We Will Rock You" had some entertaining moments (and some fine vocal percussion by Suzie Merchant, who received the Outstanding VP award for her performance), I did take issue
with a few things. First, for a song such as aggressive as "We Will Rock You," the soloists often settled into a light head voice. The block often fell into the same trap, and the overall sound became rather thin. These girls shouldn't be afraid to try experimenting with healthy belting-- it could pay off immensely. Secondly, in certain formations that were "narrow but deep" (girls standing in two parallel, vertical lines, or in some similar arrangement), it is very distracting to have the girl doing VP (sans mic) or a top soprano fighting for the high notes stationed in the very front. The facial expressions often required for such parts drew my attention away from everything else. Equally distracting was one particularly plunging neckline on an energetic soloist in the ABBA medley. Be careful, ladies. And finally, it seemed that many of In the Pink's arrangements featured very low bass and very high soprano, but not much core. Mid-range may seem less impressive than high As, but bringing more focus there could really be the key to making the Pink ladies' arrangements more solid.

THE ALTERNOTIVES (Oxford) -- Outstanding Soloist, Dan Richards

1. Blame it on the Boogie*
2. California Dreamin'
3. Don't Stop Me Now

Dress: Black, each member with a different color flair (ribbons for girls, ties for boys)

I'm in the camp that believes co-ed groups have a bit more difficulty in developing appropriate choreography (girls can be sexy, guys can be funny, but mix them and it can get awkward). Whether you agree or not, it is hard to deny that the Alternotives are doing something right. Each member brought really great individual energy, especially towards the end of their opener, "Blame it on the Boogie." Also impressive was the performance by Outstanding Soloist Dan Richards. A Jackson 5 solo is quite an undertaking, and Mr. Richards pulled it off with ease and style. I also enjoyed James Leveson in "California Dreamin." Although I always like to see male voices take on Queen, Heather Hendrickson was fine on "Don't Stop Me Now," when I could hear her. The acoustic setup with the Alternotive's enthusiastic block overwhelmed Miss Hendrickson for most of the song. A microphone would have helped immensely. Altogether, the Alternotives offered a fun, high-energy set. Plus, they just seemed like such nice kids, I couldn't help but like them.

THE SWEET NOTHINGS (Exeter)

1. Like a Prayer
2. Moondance *
3. Shine

Dress: Various outfits in black, red and white

While The Sweet Nothings have room for improvement, they made a strong showing for a group only a little over a year old. Their arrangements were simple but appropriate for a new group. "Like a Prayer" was not outstanding, but maybe just because I'm not a fan of the whole "everybody clap" thing. "Moondance" was a highlight, showcasing several lovely solo voices in a jazzy style that brought out the best in their sound. "Shine" was a little less polished. The tempo accellerated in the first few measures, and there was a bit of a blend issue with some soprano voices. However, the highlight certainly came at the end in a powerhouse duet between two of the ladies (a blonde and redhead whose names I failed to catch), stomping and belting and energizing the crowd. This strong ending was capped with a multi-level pose, including splits and at least one Sweet Nothing raised in the air. These ladies have definite potential, and I look forward to hearing more from them in the future.

THE BELLES (Oxford) -- Third Place, Outstanding Choreography,
Outstanding Arrangement (All 3)

1. Do Your Thing / I Just Can't Wait to be King
2. Breathe Me
3. One Way Or Another *

Dress: Various outfits in black and teal

These girls know what they're doing. I certainly couldn't have predicted how well Basement Jaxx would work for all-female acappella, especially combined with a Lion King interlude. The Belles made it all work, and with no inhibition. I also admired how the Belles still included an injured member in the performance; she sang along from a chair at the side of the stage. I didn't find it distracting in the least, and I commend the Belles for taking that risk and sticking together as a group. "Breathe Me" featured duets to capture Sia's unique sound, and while I enjoyed their other two selections more, the Belles get points here for degree of difficulty. The highlight for me was "One Way or Another". While Dan Richards of the Alternotives certainly merited his Outstanding Soloist award, Christine Kelley gets my honorable mention. I wrote down "brilliant and charismatic" in my program. Not only did I like her vocally, but her character was outstanding: very likeable, but a little crazy (as it should be). I was very impressed overall. I think I may have a new favorite all-female group.

OUT OF THE BLUE (Oxford) -- First Place
1. Shake Your Tailfeather*
2. Fix You
3. Cross Town Traffic

Dress: Standard OOTB uniform - dark suits with blue dress shirt

Of all the groups performing this evening, I was especially interested to see these guys perform live. I'd heard more about them than any of the others, so my expectations were particularly high. I will say this, these guys weren't as perfect as their reputation may have led me to believe. I was a surprised by some of the tuning issues I heard in "Fix You" from both soloist and block (granted, the soloist was apparently sick that evening), and I was not blown away by the solo work on "Cross Town Traffic". That being said, OOTB knows how to put on a show. The judges commended the guys for their consistent energy, saying that they couldn't pick out anyone who wasn't giving it his all 100% of the time. "Shake a Tailfeather" was a
strong, energizing performance, giving a modern edge to a older tune. The transitions between songs were seamless. The bridge into "Hey Ya" was particularly creative; each member faced front and used the percussive sounds of "shake it" to create a really interesting and unique rhythmic effect. The whole sequence was a definite crowd-pleaser. While I wasn't blown away by "Fix You", I did appreciate the creative syllables, such as "shin da tin daga." Very refreshing after an evening of "doh"s and "ba dah"s. And while the solo was a little overwhelmed by the block, I really enjoyed the choreography on"Cross Town Traffic". Car choreo was never so cool. Congratulations to Out of the Blue for their win. I'm glad I had the chance to see them live, and I wish them the best.

THE GARGOYLES (Oxford) -- Second Place

0. Gargoyle Song
1. Sir Duke
2. Another You
3. Cloudburst*

Dress: Tuxes for the guys, black dresses for the girls

What class. The Gargoyles have mastered balancing a sophisticated style with the youthful energy of university students. I was very impressed by their jazz technique, but even more impressed that they did their own arrangements. All of them were stellar, and I assumed they were professionally done until one of the judges brought it up at the end. As another judge mentioned, "every group should have their own theme song." I enjoyed the short, snappy Gargoyles song, and how it lead nicely into "Sir Duke". I'm sure it must not be easy to incorporate traditional acappella choreo into a jazz set, but it seemed natural to the Gargoyles in this opener. "Another You" was beautiful and very professional with lovely solo work, but my favorite was "Cloudburst." The three soloists were impressive, tackling speed-lyrics while staying in perfectly in tune. I was especially floored by Rhiannon, the soprano soloist, with her solid intonation and clear tone. I could see a future in professional jazz for this girl. The Gargoyles delivered a very strong ending to the show, and earned a much-deserved place in the semifinals.

After an extra-long deliberation period, the groups gathered on stage for the judges' reviews and announcements. Out of the Blue, The Gargoyles, and the Belles will be advancing to the Semi-Finals in London, and deservedly so. Congratulations to them and to all the groups who participated. I can't wait to see and hear more from all of them in the future. I think I may have to make my way to Oxford more often.

English Girls, Approximately-- Welcoming "The British One"

2008-02-11T10:29:00.001-08:00

Ok.. not just girls. But I have a friend in England, "The British One," and she sent me the updates from the UK ICCAs. Unfortunately, as I was pseudo-sleeping and MattOOTB was doing doing LIVE UPDATES from the concert... we're a bit late with results. However, The British One tells me she will be writing a review of the show soon... so we will have her opinions later.

First place: Oxford Out of the Blue (372)
Second place: The Oxford Gargoyles (367)
Third Place: The Oxford Belles (331)

Best Choreography: The Oxford Belles Ojo Johnson
Best Vocal Percussion: Oxford In the Pink (Susannah Merchant - ABBA Medley)
Best Arrangement: Oxford Belles-- Lauren Benstead for all 3 songs
Best Soloist: The Oxford Alternotives (Daniel Richards - Blame it on the Boogie)

Hosted By: Marc Vastenavondt, a man of many accents and many songs from Jesus Christ Superstar.

SETS (In order of performance):

OXFORD IN THE PINK
1. We Will Rock You
2. A Nightengale Sang in Berkeley Square
3. ABBA Medley

THE OXFORD ALTERNOTIVES
1. Blame it on the Boogie
2. California Dreaming
3. Don't Stop Me Now

THE EXETER SWEET NOTHINGS
1. Like a Prayer
2. Moondance
3. Shine

THE OXFORD BELLES
1. Do Your Thing / I Just Can't Wait to be King
2. Breathe Me
3. One Way Or Another

OXFORD OUT OF THE BLUE
1. "Shake a Tailfeather," not "Shake Your Tailfeather."
(The latter is a Nelly song, the former is the oldies boogie song that the guys actually sang. Plus Hey Ya, which was sung by a 6 foot version of Hugh Grant.)

2. Fix You
3. Cross Town Drive

THE OXFORD GARGOYLES
0. Gargoyle Song
1. Sir Duke
2. There Will Never Be Another You
3. Cloudburst

Despite What You've Been Told

2008-01-27T18:34:00.000-08:00

Sorry we didn't post about the first midwest quarterfinal for ICCA. Blondie and I were both not able to make it to Ohio to see the show, but had some spies there that fell through. I didn't even get a report about the after-party! Terribly disappointing. Some thoughts, however...

1. Strange quarterfinal. I heard that a group bailed last-minute, and it doesn't suprise me at all that the Xchords won. I have an entry in the works about them, so I need not wax rhapsodic. However...

2. I don't like the arrangement of "Chasing Cars" very much. I saw this song a few months ago and couldn't help but find it rather "eh." Good soloist/counter... but the backs left something to be desired. I also don't remember the last time a midwest ICCA didn't give out a "Best Soloist" award. I guarantee that this will not be the case at any of the other quarterfinals.

3. I can't believe the G-Men from Michigan got 3rd place. This statement has nothing to do with their musicality, talent, or arrangements--I haven't seen them in about a year. I say this because of the following rule:

(from the ICCA website)
"Musical restrictions: Any music style is acceptable, but repertoire and choreography inappropriate for a family show is not acceptable."

Is throwing condoms at the judges/ audience not considered inappropriate? I know many a group that has sacrificed inappropriate lyrics or choreo that ultimately would make a song more honest or humorous because of this rule. Maybe I'm getting too old, but I wouldn't be cool with someone throwing condoms at OR near my grandma... and the ICCA's I've attended have young siblings, parents, and grandparents in the audience. Just because the props rule has been relaxed does not mean this is acceptable ... imho, your performance should be able to speak for itself.

I Hate Camera

2008-01-22T14:17:00.000-08:00

Today's blog title is brought to you by The Bird and the Bee. I think I'd really, really like to hear some of their songs sung by an all-female group. I suggest this in lieu of another Imogen/Frou Frou song.... eh? Eh?

Tis the season for lots of a cappella. It will be just about a week before one-concert groups start having their annual week of pre-concert hell. Most spring tours are finalized. ICCA competition is already upon us. It is always around this time I begin having anxieties beyond simply making sure reservations are confirmed, guest groups are housed, and members are not killing one another... I have to make sure my hair looks good, my eyebrows are plucked, and I have the right shoes. Why? Because without fail, photos will be taken of me. Singing. And, without fail, I look like a hobgoblin.

Am I wrong? Show me someone who looks attractive while trying to belt out Christina Aguilera or getting down and dirty with Elvis. Usually the coolest photos of bands (with instruments) are when they are simply jamming. Lead singers without a giant microphone in front of them generally look rather strained or crazy-faced. Such is the case with a cappella singers, whose photos are not only plagued by mic stands cutting the image and typical peculiar lighting, but syllables dancing a whole bunch of ugly on their faces. Choreo doesn't help. And don't even get me started on the tenors who "reach" for notes or altos that give themselves double chins trying to hit that D.

Personally, I just don't photo well. No matter how many times my dear mother tells me I'm photogenic, there are more times still I find myself de-tagging facebook photos of unrecognizable, singing me. I was going to post scads of pictures of groups looking awkward (with appopriately placed black boxes over their eyes), but as my internet(s) in my apartment are currently down, my online time is limited. So, I challenge you, reader, to gaze at your group's concert shots... and have a giggle. Just know that if you're laughing at someone else, it will come back to you two-fold. Prepare yourself: the concert photos are coming.

Sara B

2007-12-19T13:18:00.000-08:00

SARA SMILES: Epic Records' Sara Bareilles has been kicked back into gear, thanks to the current Rhapsody TV spot and airplay on VH1's "You Oughta Know" program. Look for the album, Little Voice, to be a player through the holidays and into the new year.(12/18p) - Hits Daily Double

It's so interesting how label promotion works. The a cappella community certainly knew about Sara B (and I did because Tenor Problem kept bugging me about her) but I don't know if her previous musical involvement is something that the public-at-large knows about (or would even care about.)

Regardless, it's nice to see someone from the a cappella community on her way to success.

Now. Now.

2007-12-18T20:41:00.000-08:00

1. I think I might give up dating men who sing... at least for the time being. I had a lovely night out with FunnyGuy last night, and although he's nothing like LTT (long-term tenor), it was quite enjoyable. No conversations about a cappella, no switching my radio from NPR so he could sing along to something out of his range, no waxing rhapsodic about how much he likes RENT. We'll see how long this lasts. I could be like my friend and only date men that resemble cartoon superheros...

2. I don't like to bitch. That's hurtful and unnecessary, Carl. I believe I've posted on the RARB forum only three or four times, and the majority had to do with the fact that James Cannon likes to gnaw on babies skulls. And that is a statement full of truthiness.

And I realllllllly don't think you'd be calling Blondie ignorant if you actually knew her. I think it was a flippant comment, and considering some of the other incendiary things people have posted on RARB... well, there are significantly bigger fish to fry. And age comments are just silly--you've made them before. From one anonymous poster to another... don't hate. This is our blog, and we're entitled to write as we please. Or rant as we please. Or dance as we please. You know how we do it, you know how we do it...

3. Today's heading is from a song by St. Vincent. I just thought I'd put it out there that I always use song titles for my headings... and I bet you never noticed.

4. I may be far too old (yes, Carlyonders, old) to sit on Santa's lap... but I think I'm asking for a pony this year. That's right. I normally ask for world peace (my baby brother thinks it's funny to then ask for "whirled peas." Ha. Ha. notfunny.), and last year I asked everyone to donate here in my name. But this year? I want a pony. I'm going to feed it carrots and hang out with it like those guys on the "Rob and Big" show hang out with their skateboarding dog and miniature horse. It'll be awesome. It will tell me what a great singer I am and listen to me talk about how I want to marry Joseph Bates and we will be the best of friends. So yeah... got an extra pony? Send it my way. And not that kind of pony, Andrew Savini.

Good Guys Gone Bad?

2007-12-17T18:56:00.000-08:00

So someone on the Binghamton Crosbys just replied to a thread on RARB with the two following comments:

1. In a reply to a query about the big "stories" in a cappella, specifically about competition, they said "You want colorful? Take a look at the Crosbys. Our attitutde and antics always get us into trouble of some sort..."
2. In a reply to a query about whether or not they were competing in ICCA this year, they said "No not this year, it's tough to go every year."

Yeah. Right. It was pretty damn tough for you last year when you lost in the finals because you are a bunch of ~~shmucks~~ ~~sore losers~~ immature college kids who can't handle the idea that some girls beat them. I have never witnessed more inappropriate behavior in my life than when interacting with the Crosbys. They are rude, condescending and frankly, if I were Amanda Grish, I'd never let them compete in ICCA again.

It is amazing to me how cocky some all-male a cappella groups are - even the guys who seem so down-to-earth when they join get swept up into the insanity. I'm sure there are nice guys in the Crosbys, but I've certainly never met them, and they've never been able to let their public face reflect the actual talent that they have in their group.

The Plot

2007-12-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

I'm just going to put this out there as a reminder for myself:

There is a reason you do not date baritones. There is even more of a reason as to why you do not date mediocre baritones.

a;lkjnbaezl;knszdb;lkandbf az!!!???!!!!

ahem. My apologies. Go watch Straight No Chaser's "12 Days of Christmas" video on YouTube. Everyone else already has. Seriously. My aunt from Kansas sent it to me in a forward. She discovered the internet (basically) yesterday.

Each Year...

2007-12-09T19:38:00.000-08:00

I get a good number of videos in my inbox from groups, but I couldn't help but share this one with y'all. This is from "Mr Stereotype"-- held by the group of the same name every fall, it's a "ManPageant." Apparently there was a guy this year who wore only two stuffed puppies and a quacking duck. And he didn't win.

According to the e-mail, this was their last song... and I wouldn't be surprised if it made an appearance at the ICCA's.

Those are some singers VERY confident in their manhood. Do you suppose they'll wear the dresses to competition? We'll just have to wait and see.... I just hope I'm in the general area in late February so I can see this live!

Questions

2007-11-27T17:05:00.000-08:00

Things going through my mind:

1) Where the hell is ACappellaU? Where? Did charging listeners kill it off, like I predicted? I have this theory that Joey C is a raging egomaniac and is so humiliated by the drop-off in listenership that he just gave up all together. Don't, Joey! Your hour-long podcasts might have been 59.5 minutes of you chattering, but those short, sweet moments of a cappella were worth it. Come back!

2) I can't believe ICCA season is almost here. So many posts to write.

3) Poor Chord On Blues. Doesn't their name make you hungry? I have such a sad fat kid inside of me.

4) Predictions for overdone songs this year:

"Umbrella" (Rihanna)
"Misery Business" (Paramore)
GUARANTEED: That Colbie Caillat song ("Bubbly"), which will SUCK a cappella, but will be arranged by every all-female group in the nation.
GUARANTEED: "Apologize" (OneRepublic, Timbaland)

I'm up for a good recorded version of any of these, but I don't want to hear any of them live.

Other predictions?

BOCA 2008

2007-11-07T21:20:00.000-08:00

TheAcaBlog does not approve.

1. Don't Stop Believin' - U. North Carolina Clef Hangers
2. Crazy - Dartmouth Aires
3. Magic Tree - Elon Sweet Signatures
4. Sexyback - Colorado College Back Row
5. I Write Sins Not Tragedies - U. Rochester Midnight Ramblers
6. The Other Side of the World - U. Maryland Faux Pas
7. I Believe (When I Fall In Love It Will Be Forever) - U. Wisconsin Madison MadHatters
8. Put Your Records On - Tufts sQ!
9. Does He Love You?- U. Penn Off The Beat
10. You'll Think Of Me - U. Virginia Sil'hooettes
11. Touch The Sky - Virginia Tech Juxtaposition
12. Pehchaan - U. Penn Penn Masala
13. Cholat Ahava - Tufts Shir Appeal
14. Hold On - U. Illinois Rip Chords
15. Forgiven - Duke Rhythm & Blue
16. Homeward Bound - North Carolina State U. Ladies In Red
17. Come Sail Away - Tufts Beelzebubs
18. Dr. Worm - Boston U. Dear Abbeys

Before we get all snarky on you (oh, and trust me, the snark is drawing nigh)...your thoughts?

"Hold On"? Really? We love the Rip Chords, but why choose the Wilson Phillips song from 1990 that isn't even close to being the strongest track on their album (or on nearly any all-female album from this year?) Was it the Harold & Kumar factor? That movie came out in 2004, guys.

My Favorite Mistake

2007-10-23T20:23:00.000-07:00

My freshman year in college, I tried to arrange "Break My Stride" by Matthew Wilder for my group. I had sung it in high school and I loved it, so I made a valiant attempt at an arrangement (and by valiant attempt, I really mean that I borrowed...um...heavily from an arrangement from the Ultimate A Cappella Arranging Service and from the Brown Derbies version.) It turned out that I had absolutely no idea what I was doing, and when the group tried to sing it, the voice leading was so awful that it was literally impossible to sing.

In the ensuing years, I had lots of ingenious ideas for arrangements, like "George's Blues" by John Mayer. If you have never heard this song, I encourage you to look it up, though I'm not sure it was ever released, so you may have to search for it in not-so-legal places. The entire song's lyrics are "I like to eat an orange with my friend George Malacorge. So juicy sweet, so good to eat, an orange with George Malacorge. George is my friend." How I thought this might be turned into a cappella is quite beyond me now. I also attempted "Stay" by Shakespeare's Sister and a handful of other things that would have been really quite dreadful had they ever come to pass.

Sometimes it's good to go out on a limb. Sometimes it works to take a Radiohead song or an Aerosmith song or a Bulgarian throat-singing song and perform it balls-out. Sometimes your imagination just gets the best of you and you're left thinking "why the hell did I think that a nonsense song that rhymes orange with George would make any sense to arrange?"

What has been your biggest failure of an arrangement?

Dollars

2007-10-17T13:28:00.001-07:00

Recently, I received an invitation to attend an a cappella concert where two moderately well-known groups would be performing for the low, low cost of $25. But is was going to be a great concert! with two groups! and lots of amazing songs!

My reaction: are you fucking kidding me?

The only a cappella I would EVER consider paying more than $10 for is the ICCA Finals (totally worth the more than $300 I have spent on it over the years, by the way.) My group never charges more than $10 and tries to keep as many shows as possible free.

How much do you think is too much for an a cappella concert?

An Introduction

2007-10-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

I've been singing in the pro/semi-pro New York a cappella scene for a while now, and I have to tell you something: it's tough. In college, you can generally convince your friends that they have nothing better to do than to come to your a cappella concert. In New York there's always something better to do.

Pro and semi-pro groups around the country struggle with many of the same issues: attendance and publicity. How do you make your voice heard, as it were, in a field where even the smallest performance spaces get booked out months in advance? How do you convince people to pay to hear you sing, even if you are just a bunch of guys who graduated from college 5 years ago but still think a cappella makes you cool? Some groups (Duwende, Toxic Audio) end up doing this extremely well. Others falter.

What's the a cappella scene like out here in NYC and in the further reaches of the east coast? I'll let you know, so stay tuned.

That's all I ask of you, Angela.

2007-10-12T15:10:00.001-07:00

Okay, the hippo threat did it. I'm back.

So, I just got an office job. It's nice to know that there's still a place for a cappella in the workplace (from last night's episode of The Office:)

Never Alone?

2007-10-12T14:37:00.000-07:00

BLONDIE I AM BREAKING UP WITH YOU IF YOU DO NOT POST SOON. STOP WATCHING THE OFFICE AND WRITE A BLOG.

Btw, I make a totally cute hippo.

Question!

2007-09-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

I just traded my insurance card for a copy of Voices Only 2007. I wish I was joking.

Pick up a copy from your local a cappella group or from the website above. Then... Let's talk aboout it! I'm burning to hear your opinions: the " I detest"s, love fests, and everything in between. I'd love to get an idea what y'all think before I weigh in.

Blondie... you game?

Wandering Star

2007-09-25T23:09:00.000-07:00

SoJam... perhaps?

Blondie isn't sure if she's going or not. Are you?

Everybody Hurts

2007-09-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

Not that you care, but we haven't posted in ages. I could come up with many excuses... life transitions, auditions, ushering in a new crop of a cappella crazies, the fact that I wrote a post about auditions and failed to remember to actually post it.... the list can go on.

I'm just going to update you on the week before last. And that week? Sucked. Auditions may be an enjoyable event for some groups, but at my university... we're over saturated with a cappella. The teacher/student ratio is around 1:12. The a cappella group ratio? Probably close to that. Let's just say that labor day weekend is not pleasant. It means dealing with our music department, competing over boys, and watching groups play nice to freshmen while stabbing each other in the back. Not my thing... especially as I'm transitioning groups this year. Going in a different direction, if you must know. Changing my wardrobe accordingly...

So the week looked like this-
Friday-Monday: Auditions/ Callbacks. Cramped in one room for 30+ hours to watch 110 people sing. Jimmy John's delivers. There is a G-d.
Tuesday: Why do I have a fever? Why is my voice gone?
Wednesday: Emergency Room. Antibiotics. Painkillers. A tone-deaf nurse that finds out I sing... and then sings to me. DEATH. (Ok... not really.)
Thursday: More Painkillers. My tenor moves hundreds of miles away. Much listening to "Sad A Cappella Mix."
Friday: We welcome the newbies. I realize I will never sing another gig with this specific group of people.
Saturday: I go shopping, and what do I hear at our local Urban Outfitters? EMMY ROSSUM SINGING. It's on their new "26 Free Sampler." Thank you, Urban Outfitters and Filter Magazine. I got to hear the entire song. And guess what... it sucks harder than the sample on her website! YAY!

::end rant::

In actuality, auditions themselves were not that bad this year. We did a great deal of improvisational interpretations of songs during our breaks, and kept ourselves cheered with never-ending plates of baked goods. Interesting fact-- one of our auditionees sang Sara Bareilles' "Gravity" for her audition... and didn't know about the a cappella version. It was a welcome change from the dozens of Disney songs and over-performed musical theatre pieces.

So, as we always do.... I'll end this with a question. Do you have any memorable audition stories? About your own, someone else's...I don't care. Bring on the noise.

Boys of Summer

2007-07-30T20:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's post was really supposed to be about boys and the groups in which they sing. Many moons ago, someone posted a link to this video on RARB:

When I first viewed it, I sent it to alllll of my friends. This includes people who admittedly dislike a cappella (they aren't real friends.. don't worry!) and everyone had the same reaction: " LOL!" My reaction was a bit different.

tenorproblem: Hey laura, watch this video!
laura: LOL!
tenorproblem: Yeah. It makes me want to be a hullaba-ho.

And it does! I may be a girl with a tenorproblem, but that red-headed bass makes me want to pack up my things and move in with my friend who goes to UVA Law. Yes, DaveCharlieBrown, you have met my friend. No, DaveCharlieBrown, I will not tell you who (s)he is. Once moved in, I would roam the streets of Virginia until I found said boy, and then Blondie and I would devise a plan of seduction. Joke. Maybe.

But seriously, this video has the most important things for yours truly- A) Tenors B)A Singing Redheaded Boy C) A MENORAH IN THE BACKGROUND! Blondie knows...this shiksa loves her NJBs.

So I got to thinking... do the groups you know of have names for their "groupies"? I won't limit this to all-male groups; my co-ed group has a "Top Ten" of our biggest groupies. Their rankings actually change quite a bit, and you're actually removed from the list if you are currently dating a member. So bring on the groupie-terms. I promise I can handle it.

This applies, and I wouldn't mind owning one if it was actually true ::ahem::

I hate girls.

2007-07-30T19:14:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer, before the angry mob comes knocking at my door: Yes, I do appreciate BYU Noteworthy (even though I've, regrettably, never seen them live.) Yes, Divisi's "Yeah" has gotten a lot of plays in iTunes.

Still, I hate most all-female a cappella.

Maybe it's because I've never gotten along with girls, save for TenorProblem. Girls are nasty. Catty. And sometimes prettier than me.

Interesting tidbit: the first a cappella concert I ever attended with TenorProblem was hosted by an all-female group. We went to see the Bubs. I can't be mad at the girl group, either, since without their flaws, TenorProblem and I may never have a discovered a mutual love of a cappella-bitchery. We may never have perfected our signature move: the wtf-nudge. TenorProblem hates a solo -- she nudges me slightly with her elbow. I feel awkward as I witnesses a girl's failed attempt to get sexy with the mic. Nudge.

The simultaneous nudge is the best. If your group gets a simultaneous nudge, there is no question that you've done something unforgivable.

But for vocal acts that you might categorize as nearly SACRILEGIOUS, there's the thigh-grab. TenorProblem squeezes my leg as if we're in a plane crash and she's holding on to the armrest for dear life. This indicates PURE TORTURE. Or as she calls it (more politely), "TenorProblem will be heading for the bathroom in a second."

We really are nice girls, I promise. We know there are proud parents in the audience. And we know we're not perfect either. How dreadful would it be to witness a double-nudge or a thigh-grab at our own concerts? Ugh. But we wouldn't. And you know why? Because they're SECRET. Because they can't be seen from the stage, or from nearby seats.

But back to the main topic. All-female a cappella.

Shudder. (In general.)

I do want to change. I do. I think "Wonderwall" by UGA Noteworthy is lovely. I wish they'd arranged it. "Beautiful" by the USC Sirens still strikes me as powerful, particularly that lovely solo. Also from BOCA 2002, I like U-Wisconsin-Madison Tangled Up In Blue's "Breathless" (even if I still can't understand all the hub-bub over their arrangement of "Vogue." Someone care to enlighten me?) And like I said, A Cub Bella impressed me at ICCA, even if the whole army-of-fembots vibe creeped me out.

Listen to the girl say "hit it" before they move their robo-limbs into position. Ugh. But it's good after that.

But female beat-boxers scare me, since the good ones I've seen are frightening with all that hair and spit flying around.

Am I a traitor to my gender? Don't let this continue. Send some good all-female songs/videos my way. Change me! I'll comment on each in my next post. The good, the bad, and (hopefully not too much) ugly.

Hands to Heaven (or my ears)

2007-07-30T16:37:00.001-07:00

Blondie and I were discussing boys today. Well, actually, we were talking about how much Emmy Rossum sucks, but it moved beyond that point to a discussion of boys... which with me (of course) leads to a discussion about tenors. Preferably dorky ones. With red hair or nice jewish mothers. Wait... can I really begin a post like this?

Ok. Emmy Rossum sucks. Clicky on the link. Listen. From her myspace:

"Most of all I really wanted to test the limits of the voice, to try and use a vocal where you’d ordinarily use strings, piano and other instruments. Even some of the percussion is my voice."

ORLY, Emmy! I've never heard of anything like that! Your songs are soooo original. I mean, that 30 seconds of "Slow Me Down" sounded NOTHING like a cheap, barfed-up version of Imogen Heap's "Hide and Seek" with Britney Spears-style lyrics. Add some Enya, and you've got "Lullaby." And I appreciate the deep "honesty" of your words... talking about the "pace of the world/ I just wish I could stop it". I know you've been SO busy with life ever since you ruined Phantom of the Opera for, well, everyone on Planet Earth. Raise your hands if you saw Poseidon. C'mon... raise 'em.

Here's my main point-- I don't like this silly, "I-desperately-need-a-sandwich" girl feigning innovation. Let me take another poll-- who has "used a vocal where you'd ordinarily use strings?" Oh wait... that's EVERYONE READING THIS BLOG. Let's face it-- everyone knows that Scott Storch didn't want to touch her and Timbaland wouldn't return her phone calls because she's clearly not a pop star. So the heads of Geffen thought... hey! Let's tap into that yet-to-hit-TRL style, because we can act like Emmy was the first. Heck, let's even have her do vocal percussion, because we haven't insulted enough artists who actually have talent.

GAH. The worst part about this, as I told Blondie, is that a week after "Slow Me Down" is actually released, a bajillion and four groups will have it arranged and all up ons YouTube. Blechhhh.

She Has No Time...

2007-07-01T01:22:00.000-07:00

Blondie and I have been frantically running about the country this summer... and therefore have been MIA on this blog. My apologies. If I could, I'd bake you all batches of brownies to make up for it. I'm currently living on the east coast, singing kareoke, skipping about the big cities, and laughing at the recent anonymous posts on RARB. I'm pretty positive I know who wrote the most recent anonymous rant .... you guys have any opinions on that mess?

Other news-- Celine Dion stops her Vegas show in August... Bette Midler will be taking over. Don't worry... Celine's heart will always go on (and on).

Also... THE SPICE GIRLS ARE BACK TOGETHER. Discuss.

YouTube fun: Tufts Beelzebubs "SexyBack" and "Smiley Faces"

2007-05-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

I have a friend who's doing a "research project" (any more information might reveal my identity) on a cappella (no, it's not Josh Duchan). He sent a long (and amazing) survey out to his friends in a cappella groups. One of the final questions was:

"What is the best/worst song you’ve ever heard another a cappella group perform?"

Not wanting to be catty and get into specifics (though after watching a cappella for four years I've got a few examples in mind) I simply answered: "'SexyBack' is a terrible a cappella song, even if you’re doing it as a joke. On YouTube, I saw that some groups chose to sing it for ICCA. What were they thinking? Even when you do it right, it sounds wrong."

Oh, and then I found the Bubs doing it on YouTube.

I didn't want to post their version because ~*BuBzLoVe*~ is SO obvious, but really, some groups become legendary for a reason. There are a few reasons why I had to do it:

1) This is the only live version of "SexyBack" I've seen that doesn't make want to projectile vomit.

2) Um...it's the Bubs. Even though they didn't blow me away when I saw them back in '03, they re-won my love simply by including "Smiley Faces" on their new album.

3) I appreciate the "Buttons" interlude because (a) it's the first a cappella version I've seen (and I've been waiting,) and (b) it isn't being sung by an all-girl group.

Article coming soon: my distaste for all-female a cappella (a distate which, I admit, is slowly deteriorating. I've seen some good stuff in the past year. It's just that it always irritates me a bit, yanno? Probably for the same reasons I never joined a sorority.)

Since embedding is disabled for the "SexyBack/Buttons" video, here's something almost as good: the Bubs's cover of "Smiley Faces" by Gnarls Barkley. One of the members of my group wanted to arrange this song for us last summer, but quickly realized he was too lazy to figure out a non-obnoxious way to re-create the spaceship noises throughout. As much as I love the Bubs, it seems like they were equally lazy. (It's good, despite that!)

Voices Only 2007 Rundown

2007-05-19T21:44:00.000-07:00

The Voices Only 2007 track listing came out on Wednesday, and here it is (with a handy-dandy list of links.)

1) Question! - Rochester Midnight Ramblers
2) Digging In The Dirt - Tufts Beelzebubs
3) My Love - Clemson Tigeroar
4) Home - NC State Ladies In Red
5) Heaven - San Diego State Sunset Clefs
6) Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing - Wake Forest Chi Rho
7) Fix You - USC Reverse Osmosis
8) This Time Around - Clemson TakeNote
9) My Favorite Game - Virginia New Dominions
10) What You Know - UNC Clef Hangers
11) Never Alone - Stanford Testimony
12) 24 - Maryland Faux Paz
13) Separate Ways - Colorado College The Back Row
14) Mama's Room - Washington University in St. Louis After Dark
15) Rock DJ - Northwestern Purple Haze
16) St. Theresa - Wisconsin Redefined (Yes, THAT Redefined, famous for YouTube's "Nintendo A Cappella.")
17) Hello - UNC-Greensboro Sapphires

CD2
1) Hysteria - UCSB Naked Voices
2) When I Get You Alone - USC SoCal VoCals
3) Happy Face - Illinois Rip Chords
4) Aerials - Rutgers Casual Harmony
5) Hear You Me - Appalachian State Higher Ground
6) Soul Meets Body - Stanford Harmonics
7) Be Here - Washington University in St. Louis Mosaic Whispers
8) Touch The Sky - Virginia Tech Juxtaposition
9) We Are - Stanford Mixed Company
10) Don't Leave Me This Way - NYU Mass Transit
11) Juicy - USC Sirens
12) 2 + 2 = 5 - Washington University in St. Louis Amateurs
13) By & By - St. Olaf The Limestones
14) More Than A Feeling - Stanford Mendicants
15) Chocolate - UPenn Penny Loafers
16) Time - Richmond Sirens
17) Whisper - UNC Tar Heel Voices

So what's the rundown?
Stanford wins for most tracks, with an amazing 4.
Washington University has 3 tracks from their 3 co-ed contemporary groups. USC's got 3 as well, while Clemson and UNC both have 2. This is also the first time a Rutgers group has made a compilation (according to Candace of Shockwave.)

I'm excited for Wash U, mostly because I recall an interesting and recent RARB post that indicated they haven't, until now, had the best compilation luck. Both the Mosaic Whispers and After Dark were chosen for the CAMO compilations in 2005 and 2006, respectively. After the 2005 CD came out, it was discovered that the Whispers track ("Only In Dreams") was mastered incorrectly. According to one member, the track was "slowed down significantly, making our excellent tenor soloist sound like a bass and the already nearly 7 minute song even longer. It was embarrassing and it was a mess trying to get them to somehow recognize that they had made a major mistake." After Dark, on the other hand, was told that their song "I Want You Back" had been chosen for CAMO's 2nd volume, which was to be released in March 2006. By September, the album still hadn't been released and CAMO's directors weren't responding to emails. According to a reliable source, CAMO lost funding but made no attempt to contact the groups who had paid for copies of the albums.

But out came the sunshine. (Clips of both "Be Here" and "Mama's Room" are available at at Tat Tong's website, and "2+2=5" is available at the Amateurs' Myspace.)

Thoughts...
There's a great debate going on at the RARB forums right now regarding compilation choices. Some groups, it seems, declined to submit to VO because of fears that their best song would be chosen, thereby decreasing its desirability for the producers of BOCA. People are desperately trying to indicate that this is an unreasonable fear, but what do you think? Of course I think that people should submit to VO and shouldn't strategize -- but do you blame them? How "fresh" do you think BOCA (or any compilation) wants to be be?

A Song to Pass the Time....

2007-04-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

I know I said I'd post the Tenor Ten this past weekend, but it's just not going to happen. My fellow college students, you know the way it goes: you have 2 papers to write in one weekend. No big deal, eh? But you have two gigs...and someone invites you to an afterparty... and you have rehearsal....and your friend from high school is in town.... and BAM! No more weekend. Now I have 5 papers due this week, and only two 2-liters of Diet Dr. Pepper on which to survive.

So, James Cannon-- quit e-mailing to ask when the list will be posted. I don't know. Sleep>blog.

If you have any last-minute nominations, send 'em our way. We'll still accept them from anyone who isn't a big fat complainer from the Chordials.

The One with the Tenor Problem Presents... The Tenor Ten 2007!

2007-04-24T03:19:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday this month, and I'm not really a fan of presents or grand gestures. A gift to charity, a lovely meal out with friends, or a bag of plastic dinosaurs are all perfect gifts for me. Last year I received cookbooks, a pair of rollerblades, 2 cases of good wine, and a llama donated to Heifer International. Oh, and a slamming cocktail party rendition of "Happy Birthday" with barely anyone singing the melody. It was the best birthday to date.

This year, however, I have the acablog! I have the gift of anonymous e-friends! I have resources! And I want tenors for my birthday. So, I thought to myself... Why not?! Thus, the first ever "Tenor Ten" awards have been en-wombed. I say this because I need your help to birth them (the awards, not the tenors). Send me the name of your favorite tenor... in either pictures, audio files, videos, smoochability ratings, stories, etc... and I'll compile them into a Top-Ten Tenortastic list as a gift to myself (and you!) for my birthday. Gentlemen--please feel free to nominate yourself, or that tenor that you have always admired. Try to e-mail them to me by Friday, and I'll have the post up this weekend. E-mails, rather than comments, are preferred as to keep the results a surprise. If I don't hear from you, Blondie and I will be forced to compile a list ourselves, which would more than likely be biased towards the midwest, or we'll just pick nine of these guys... so please help us out!

No real rules on this one- nominations can be from any group (preferrably collegiate), any year (I can guarantee the presence of one certain tenor from BOCA 2004), and any location on the planet. Even their tenor status can be debatable... but the more evidence you have for us, the more likely your nominee is to make it on the list. Send us some good stuff... we love hearing from you!

Oh... and before someone gets up in arms about me objectifying members of the male sex, let me explain that this is only for a lark, and will be mostly based on vocal ability rather than appearance. Humor and performance are also huge parts too... so let us know in detail how awesome your nominee is.

Have fun with this... and don't forget to spread the a cappella love this week!

FINALS IN NYC!!!!

2007-04-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

We're going to have a guest opinion blogger on this one, as I was not able to attend the event due to my group's RIDICULOUS amount of gigs this weekend. Boo on life. Without further ado...

1st place: BYU Noteworthy
2nd place: University of Nebraska Rocktavo! ( HECK YES, MIDWEST REPRESENT!!!!)
3rd place: Amherst Zumbyes

Awards:

Best soloist: Christopher Diaz of All-Night Yahtzee for “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk”
Best Choreo: BYU Noteworthy
Best VP: Travis Smith of All-Night Yahtzee
Best Arrangement: Zakk Wooten and Michael Tully of Rocktavo for "Figaro!"

Congrats to everyone!!

Interesting fact from our guest blogger- apparently Puccini was credited with the music involved in Figaro, but it's really Mozart.

More from us later! Much love!

Do you know where the Prickly Pear Cafe is?

2007-04-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

A short and sweet video by Tally Hall, an Ann Arbor-based rock band.

Like your a cappella group hasn't randomly broken into chords before.

Now to find a video of someone playing the half-step game.

ICCA Midwest Semi-Finals

2007-04-01T00:47:00.000-07:00

How things went at Northwestern....

1. University of Nebraska Rocktavo
2. University of Illinois Xtension Chords
3. University of Illinois Rip Chords

Best Arrangement: Oh What a Beautiful Mornin'- University of Nebraska Rocktavo

Best Soloist: the girl from Capital Green that sings "Before He Cheats"

Best Choreo: University of Illinois XChords (Yay!)

Best Vocal Percussion: (Tie) Dicks & Janes and 5One

Thoughts? I can't pretend I'm not surprised at a few of these.....

I Never

2007-03-25T18:39:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, one of the most fun things about going to an off-campus ICCA is the after party. It's a great place to network, learn about other groups, and let loose after weeks of choreo rehearsals. Sometimes the groups from the host school will throw down a bit of cash to help pay for supplies... but usually the host group itself bears the financial weight and is nice enough to provide a venue for much-needed revelry after the competition. Long story short... yay singing and booze!

Well-- the Rip Chords from U of I competed AND hosted the ICCA regionals back in February. Apparently, their after-party was cut short by interference by the police or neighbors complaining... something like that. This happens to the best of collegiate parties, and I wouldn't have thought it was that big of a deal until I was alerted to the following:

http://truman.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2233483951

Sorry to those who don't have facebook accounts; basically, it's a facebook group started by the True Men of Truman State University complaining that they were kicked out of the ICCA party. Normally, I wouldn't have a problem with a silly facebook group, but the comments were what really got me. These "Men" called the female hosts "whores," "skanks," and "bitches." Way to represent your university, guys.

Now I've had numerous run-ins with the True Men in the past 4 years and they've never really rubbed me the right way. Let's just say I've never had a "tenor problem" with any of them, and for good reason. But I can't even fathom any college-educated male thinking it is acceptable to talk about women in this fashion. How entitled do you think you are that you feel comfortable saying those things? You should be ashamed of yourselves.

My female readers- let's not accept this. Don't let them think that they're "cool guys" for this sort of behavior. Don't invite these guys to your concert. Don't buy their albums. Don't give them the time of day.

Edit: If you're a member of the True Men and you'd care to defend yourself.. feel free. I want to believe you guys all aren't like this.

Not My Idea

2007-03-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

A Cappella Moment of the Day:

I spent 4 hours in the car with my parents suggesting songs I should arrange (all bad ideas) and discussing the psychological differences between the voice parts.

Then my dear mother decided to tell me what a tragedy it is that I "chose" to ruin my voice... because "well, my dear.. you know.. you could have been a coloratura... everyone always said you sounded like your grandmother." This was the point that I ~~jumped out the window of the car at 80 mph~~ tried to fall asleep.

They later made it up to me by buying 8 copies of our most recent album.

So I ask you, dear readers.... have you ever dealt with people telling you that you shouldn't be singing a cappella? My parents know I love it, but I still get flack for not being "serious" enough about my voice. Even worse are the voice faculty at school- they're actually thinking about making it illegal for voice majors to also sing in non-departmental groups. Any thoughts?

A Lack of Color

2007-03-16T13:59:00.000-07:00

Dorky a cappella moment of the day:

While at the salon, I decided not to dye my hair because I didn't know how it would look with my group's color scheme.

Perhaps the greatest show in ICCA history?

2007-03-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

I would have done anything to be in San Rafael last weekend:

ICCA West Region
Semifinal: Marin Center for the Performing Arts

1st: Brigham Young University Noteworthy (411 points)
2nd: Brigham Young University Vocal Point (394 points)
3rd: University of Oregon Divisi (381 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Catherine Papworth of Noteworthy for "How Great Thou Art"
Outstanding Choreography: Erika Barkett of Divisi for "Hide and Seek"
Outstanding Soloist: Trevor Ditzler of University of California-Santa Barbara Naked Voices for "Feeling Good"
Oustanding Vocal Percussion: Kenneth Ray Lowe, Jr. of Oregon State University Outspoken

I'm sure it was phenomenal. It looks like scores for the top 3 have dropped since their respective divisionals: BYU Noteworthy went from 455 to 411, Vocal Point from 445 to 394, and Divisi from 417 to 381. Not that I think their quality went down -- we can probably blame it on those poor poor judges who had to subjective rank these phenoms of a cappella.

And of course, it makes me happy to see the special awards spread out amongst the competing groups - always a sign of a great show. Congratulations to Trevor Ditzler from UCSB Naked Voices for his (second) solo win. Here's his performance of "Feeling Good" from the group's ICCA Quarterfinal at USC, where he also won the award.

Oh, man. I love Nina Simone.

More results:

ICCA Northeast Region
Quarterfinal 3: SUNY-Potsdam

1st: Binghamton Crosbys (no point total available)
2nd: SUNY-Albany Earth Tones (331 points)
3rd: SUNY-Potsdam A Sharp Arrangement (322 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Emily Gu of APC Rhythm
Outstanding Choreography: Binghamton Crosbys
Outstanding Soloist: Ron Mangiacapra of New York University APC Rhythm for "Behind Blue Eyes" and Juliana Curcio of A Sharp Arrangement for "You Say"

Quarterfinal 4: McGill University
1st: McGill University Solstice (418 points)
2nd: Plymouth State University Vocal Order (300 points)
Oustanding Arrangement: Clive Chang of Solstice for "Hide and Seek"
Outstanding Choreography: Solstice
Outstanding Soloist: Nicholas Allen and Hanif Shariff of Solstice for "A Few More Miles"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Terry Adelman of Binghamton University Rhythm Method for "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" and Gordon Vintner of Solstice for "Stuff Like That"

ICCA New England Region
Quarterfinal 3: Merrimack College

1st: Harvard LowKeys (343 points)
2nd: Tufts sQ! (314 points)
3rd: Suffolk Ramifications (302 points)
Outstanding Soloist: Eric Lapre of the Ramifications for "Never There"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Samir Paul of the LowKeys
Outstanding Arrangement: Kinley Russell of the LowKeys for "California Dreamin" and Mandy Luk of Boston University Chordially Yours for "Hide and Seek"
Outstanding Choreography: Kate Makai, Tara Vaughan, and Leah Reitz of sQ! for "Lady Marmalade"

Hrm...looks like "Hide and Seek" is a popular song this year. No surprise there.

Quarterfinal 4: Wellesley College

1st: University of Massachusetts-Amehrst Vocal Suspects (397 points)
2nd: Brandeis University VoiceMale (392 points)
3rd: Wellesley College Tupelos (366 points)
Outstanding Choreography: VoiceMale for "Here It Goes Again"
Outstanding Soloist: K'idar Miller of the Harvard University Callbacks for "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Henny Hong of the Tupelos

But if you don't say what you are thinking... No, I won't take too kindly to it

2007-03-05T18:25:00.000-08:00

Apparently I botched something. As an internet-published observer, even I know when to check my sources. Remember this little post? Well... I've incensed at least one Nebraskan.

http://forum.rarb.org:8080/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3243

Now, I'm all for publicity for our babyblog... but I wanted to defend myself specifically from "Wish0922" who seemed to get a bit of a 'tude about my sources. I must admit, my initial source of information was gossiptastically through 3 other people. So I did my homework... I contacted a tenor and a two others that I know that live Nebraska-loca. Also, I received 2 e-mails from readers that wanted me to write something about what they'd heard about Rocktavo from people at the concert.

Therefore, I'll take the journalistic stance of integrity and call all of my sources liars. Ha. Joking. I love you and your fair state. I'm sorry to anyone that I offended by writing those things about Rocktavo-- and I hope that nobody takes anything we write here too seriously. I won't apologize for the dialogue it started...and I can't promise this blog won't be chock-full-'o gossip and error in the future. We'll just be cool enough to admit it.

Oh, and I love the Cranberries. I could listen to their greatest hits on repeat for 3 days straight and not want to jump out a window.

Wash U Stereotypes - "Mamma Mia," More Quarterfinal Results

2007-02-26T23:02:00.000-08:00

The video of "Mamma Mia" below is one of the songs from the Wash U Stereotypes set at the Washington University Mid-West ICCA Quarterfinal last Friday. This performance undoubtedly helped get the guys their Outstanding Choreography award. This is really cute stuff -- not overly distracting, just entertaining, and really appropriate, considering the fact that it's ABBA. So wonderfully cheesy! Chip Broze also won Outstanding Arrangement(s) for all 3 of the songs in their set.

We posted the results earlier, but here are the specifics for that divisional: Missouri State University A Cub Bella won 1st with 440 points, Millikin University hit 2nd with 425 points, and the Missouri State University Beartones received 3rd with 345 points. A number of St. Louisians have emailed us surprised by the enormous point differences, since the general consensus seems to be that this was a very competitive divisional. While A Cub Bella seemed a lock for 1st place, guesses on 2nd and 3rd ranged widely. One reader informed us that ICCA Midwest producer Julie Moffitt remarked that she had never before seen a competition that gave her so many "oh my gosh" moments.

The Outstanding Soloist award went to Melanie Mitchell of A Cub Bella for "Get Out,"and Outstanding Vocal Percussion went to Brian Parrish of 5one.

More ICCA results from around the nation...

ICCA New England Region
Quarterfinal 2: Brown University

1st: Boston University In Achord (411 points)
2nd: Brown University Higher Keys (403 points)
3rd: Northeastern University Downbeats (285 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Jerel Bangayan of In Achord for "Here With Me"
Outstanding Soloist: Eti-Ini Enyong of the Downbeats for "Unchained Melody"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Adam Hadas of In Achord

ICCA Mid-Atlantic Region
Quarterfinal 3: Drexel University

1st: Westminster Choir College Deaftones (417 points)
2nd: Rutgers University Deep Treble (405 points)
3rd: Carnegie Mellon University Originals (303 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Patrick Dillon of the Deaftones for "We Built This City"
Outstanding Choreography: Deep Treble
Outstanding Soloist: Devin Fahy of Elizabethtown College Melica for "Natural Woman"

Quarterfinal 4: Lafayette College
(TheACappellaBlog just posted a detailed review of this show.)

1st: Ithaca College Ithacappella (378 points)
2nd: Drew University 36 Madison Avenue (336 points)
3rd: University of Delaware Vocal Point (307 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Ross Michaels of 36 Madison Avenue for The Rising
Outstanding Choreography: 36 Madison Avenue
Outstanding Soloist: Alfredo Austin of Vocal Point for "Third Duke"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Justin of 36 Madison Avenue for "Real Good Man"

ICCA South Region
Quarterfinal 3: University of Virginia

1st: Virginia Technical Institute Sensations (380 points)
2nd: William & Mary DoubleTake (294 points)
3rd: Virginia Tech Juxtaposition (259 points)
Oustanding Arrangement: Meredith Adams of the Sensations for “Brick”
Outstanding Soloist: Jessyka Myers of the Sensations for “Brick”
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Jim Fleckenstein of Virginia Technical Institute Juxtaposition for “Polaris”

The point totals for this divisional seem awfully low (259?). Could this have been a set of very picky judges?

ICCA Midwest Quarterfinal: Wash U

2007-02-24T15:08:00.000-08:00

Once again, you're hearing it here first: here are the results from last night's ICCA Midwest Quarterfinal at Washington University. If you were there (and we know you were, St. Louisians, since you make up the bulk of our readership) post your thoughts! What did you love? What did you hate? Who was robbed? How would you have ranked it? 9 groups competed last night, so there's got to be a lot to say.

Point totals and names will be posted soon.

ICCA Midwest Region
Quarterfinal 4: Washington University

1st: MSU A Cub Bella (They were last year's champs at this divisional as well, but did not win choreography this time. It would have been their 4th choreo win in a row.)
2nd: Millikin University 5one
3rd: MSU Beartones
Outstanding Arrangement: Chip Broze from the Wash U Stereotypes (for all 3 songs in their set)
Outstanding Choreography: Wash U Stereotypes (Word is that it was WELL deserved.)
Outstanding VP: Millikin University 5one
Oustanding Soloist: MSU A Cub Bella

Achordants - "Carry on My Wayward Son"

2007-02-21T09:46:00.000-08:00

Here is the UNC-Chapel Hill Achordants ICCA performance of "Carry On My Wayward Son," a song which will always make me think of Anchorman. The soloist is Philip Childers, and music director Andrew DiMartino is the arranger. The Achordants placed first at the South Region 2nd Quarterfinal at Elon University, scoring 423 points.

Of course the sound quality on this isn't fantastic, but it's good enough. Enjoy!

You can visit the Achordants at http://achordants.unc.edu.

Only in Dreams...

2007-02-21T08:22:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up from a dream that involved half my group quitting because the group decided to perform Lindsay Lohan's "Over" and some Britney Spears song at our spring show... mostly due to a lack of female songs. My brain must've made up the Britney song, because I didn't recognize it. Anyway... everyone quit, and I woke up distraught because I was trying to talk everyone out of it. Now that I think about it, one of our altos did threaten to quit if we ever sang a Britney song....

I had another dream recently that John Creegan (singer of "Always", BOCA 2004, Bostonians, my ULTIMATE a cappella vocal crush) and I had a child. Let's not point out the fact that I have not only never met him, but I don't know what he looks like. But there he was, in my dream. Anyway, the child was tone deaf, and Blondie and I discussed switching children (Blondie had one, apparently) because 1) she was worried that I wouldn't love mine enough and 2) because her little girl refused to wear pretty dresses.

Now for the audience participation part: What song do you think you wouldn't be willing to sing with your group, no matter how good the arrangement?

'Till I Hear It From You

2007-02-19T22:02:00.000-08:00

As you may know, I had this long, sassy post planned for the ICCA divisionals that were held at U of Illinois. You were going to hear all about how I got my mind choreographically blown (in good and bad ways), found that I don't dislike all-female a cappella (holla, Rip Chords) and how I wish every single member of the Xchords went to my school. Oh... and how Lincoln Hall is a perfect locale for an ICCA. Good job, lighting dudes.

But all of my comments were put at a standstill when I found out the following:

ROCKTAVO, the winning group, was formed by the music faculty at the University of Nebraska only for ICCA. They are made up of entirely undergraduate and graduate students in vocal music/ music ed. They only know 3 songs. This is why they repeated one of the songs from their set... because they do not have any more songs.

None of this is against ICCA rules.. but what do you think? Is it fair to student-run groups to have to compete against those who have professionals advising them? Should this be allowed? Bring on the opinions.

Who Am I to Blow Against the Wind?

2007-02-18T21:06:00.001-08:00

Alternate Title: How the Whoop Whoop song led me to collegiate a cappella

When I was a little girl, our family would alway sing together to the Paul Simon Graceland album. In our brown Mazda, my mother in the front, my brother on the left so he couldn't kick her... I can remember singing "ta na naaah" with Ladysmith Black Mambazo and my brother getting upset when I'd sing the "whoop whoop" section on "I Know What I Know." I think my love of a cappella music came from this cd. Each one of us would sing different parts: my father always choosing a deep bass accompaniment, my mother picking whatever harmonies came to mind, my brother singing the oddest instrumental parts... mostly to irritate me. Linda Ronstadt on "Under African Skies" was probably more of an influence on my female vocal ideals than those I credit today. Sunday mornings my father and I would have "daddy-daughter dates" and I'd request that song on the ride to brunch so we could sing together. It doesn't take a birthday to realize that my family doesn't sing melodies.

I suppose this is why I love singing in the block so much. Don't get me wrong, I like performing out front as much as the next girl...but I've only had one song I ever really wanted to perform, and I sing it. The pleasure I gain from the blend with my fellow altos or a pseudo-counter layered over a strong solo line..... it's pure. No anxiety, no spotlight, no compliments that are not shared. You are supporting not only the soloist, but a dozen other people that are producing audible love. There is a bond between individuals that sing together that I associate with family. It's not weird for my group that the majority of us have lived/ are living with other group members, or that we spend more time together outside of rehearsal than in it-- when you find your blend... you're always home.

I wish I could show you our "family portrait" taken at my house on fall tour; all of us crammed on my living room sofa, with my parents standing in the back. My mom cried that night after we sang while making pasta in our big kitchen; she said it was like having her family back together again.... only with more parts.

Your weekend ICCA update

2007-02-18T20:40:00.000-08:00

Oh, yes, our blog had it first...the Michigan State Quarterfinal Results were delivered to you fresh on Saturday night, just minutes after the announcement of the awards.

Just to clarify a few of those "mumblemumbles" from Saturday's intoxicated source (who shall remain nameless), here are clarifications from that Mid-West Quarterfinal's results:

Outstanding Arrangement: Jake Bouma of Luther College Undeclared for "Stand Out"

I am secretly hoping that this is "Stand Out" from "A Goofy Movie." I am the epitome of cool.

(EDIT: IT IS FROM "A GOOFY MOVIE!" Watch Undeclared below. Note that this isn't from their ICCA performance.)

While I am absolutely in love with Undeclared for doing this song, I'm a bit surprised that this won best arrangement. It's kind of boring -- nothing's really blowing me away. The chords during the "I'm al-iiiive" part aren't even correct. I think this award has something to do with the fact that it's just a great song on its own -- in other words, all the credit should go to the original songwriters. Still, I'm in love.

Outstanding Choreography: Andrea Kovac and Stephanie Krive of Michigan State Capital Green for "Before He Cheats"

No surprise there. Capital Green always has amazing choreography.

Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Andrew Berkowitz of University of Minnesota 7 Days

More ICCA results...

ICCA Mid-Atlantic Region
Quarterfinal 3: Drexel University

1st: Westminster Choir College Deaftones (417 points)
2nd: Rutgers University Deep Treble (405 points)
3rd: Carnegie Mellon University Originals (303 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Patrick Dillon of the Deaftones for "We Built This City"
Outstanding Choreography: Deep Treble
Outstanding Soloist: Devin Fahy of Elizabethtown College Melica for "Natural Woman"

Blondie out!

ICCA Midwest Quarterfinal- Michigan State

2007-02-17T20:59:00.000-08:00

I love when we can give you results early... even when they're from intoxicated tenors partying at a hotel.

1st place : University of Illinois Xtension Chords
2nd place: Michigan State University Capital Green
3rd place: Luther College Undeclared

Best Soloist: Robby Goodman of the Xchords for "She's Got a Way"
Best Choreo: Capital Green
Best Perc: Capital Green for "mumblemumble"
Best Arrangement: Undeclared for "Idunnowhatsong,butitwasgood"

I'm sure the details will be posted early tomorrow morn on the varsity vocals website, but I can't say I'm surprised.

ICCA results, February 10th

2007-02-11T07:58:00.000-08:00

ICCA Mid-Atlantic Region
Quarterfinal 2: Penn State University

1st: Penn State University Shades of Blue (419 points)
2nd: SUNY-Buffalo Buffalo Chips (383 points)
3rd: Rochester Institute of Technology Encore (290 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Mark Lehnowski of Shades of Blue for "Mary Had A Little Lamb" and Aaron Krolikoski of the Buffalo Chips for "This is How a Heart Breaks"
Outstanding Choreography: John Sullivan of the Buffalo Chips
Outstanding Soloist: Danya Katok of Shades of Blue for "Into the West"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Jacob Schwartz of Shades of Blue

(Only 6 groups competed in this divisional. Geez! Now that's a competition I'd want to be a part of. Just so you get a sense of the varying sizes of competitions, the upcoming Mid-West divisional at Washington University has 9 competitors.)

ICCA Mid-West Region
Quarterfinal 2: University of Michigan

1st: Northwestern University Undertones (439 points)
2nd: University of Michigan Dicks & Janes (396 points)
3rd: University of Illinois Girls Next Door (330 pts)
Outstanding Arrangement: Mike Rowan of the Dicks & Janes for "You Got to Funkifize"
Outstanding Choreography: Joyee Lin of the Undertones
Outstanding Soloist: Hassan Perez of Eastern Michigan University No U-Turn for "When Doves Cry" and "Crazy Love"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Alex Greiner-Urbanik and Chris Joseph of University of Michigan Gimble

(Congrats to Hassan Perez of No U-Turn for winning for two songs. Unless it was a medley, it was definitely ballsy of the group to use the same soloist for 2 songs on a 3 song set. Even though the group didn't place, they should be very proud of Hassan.

Also, notably, Indiana University Ladies First competed in this divisional and received no awards. I haven't heard them in two years, but I assumed that they would have picked up a solo or choreography award.)

ICCA South Region
Quarterfinal 2: Elon University

1st: University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill Achordants (423 points)
2nd: Johns Hopkins University Octopodes (339 points)
3rd: Johns Hopkins University AllNighters (327 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Shivank Gupta of the Octopodes for “Ghost of You”
Outstanding Choreography: The Octopodes for “Supermassive Black Hole”
Outstanding Soloist: Blaine Young of James Madison University Madison Project for “Then You Went Away”
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Josh Robinson of the AllNighters

(You may remember that the Achordants took it all the way to NYC in last year's competition, and they may be on their way there again. It's good to see the group doing well, even without leader Yuri Broze.)

ICCA West Region
Quarterfinal 4: University of Southern California

1st: Brigham Young University Noteworthy (455 points)
2nd: University of California-Santa Barbara Naked Voices (392 points)
3rd: University of Southern California Trojan Men (352 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Catherine Papworth of Noteworthy for "How Great Thou Art"
Outstanding Choreography: Naked Voices
Outstanding Soloist: Trevor Ditzler of the Naked Voices for "Feelin' Good"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: James Percival of the Naked Voices

Please refrain from awkward button-downs

2007-02-09T12:46:00.000-08:00

A Cappella Blog has a fantastic review of the ICCA Mid-Atlantic Quarterfinals at Syracuse University. Tenor Problem and I both appreciate Mike C's interest in group attire. Trust us, our "What Not To Wear" article is coming soon, and will cover everything from hair to underwear.

Back After Technical Difficulties

2007-02-07T23:21:00.000-08:00

Let's be clear about something: I have little to no computer skills. My blogger account has been completely worthless to me for the past few weeks... it just wouldn't let me log in. Also, last night my 5-year-old iMac hard drive began to fail. Now...any normal person would have to take the computer in, purchase an external hard drive, pay an extraordinary amount of money, and wait for days while the kind folk at Macintosh repaired the beautiful bubble.

Not this girl.

I called a tenor. It just so happens that I have an ex-boyfriend who is a "Genius" for Macintosh. He popped on over this morning, applied his discount to the hard drive, and 7 hours later... my machine is running on a newer OS at faster speeds. So feel free to call me a technophobe... just don't say I'm not resourceful.

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As Blondie mentioned, expect an entry from me in the next few days about ICCA at U of I. I actually heard some insider information about ranking, and have quite a few opinions I'm sure will be controversial... or perhaps not. Just be prepared- I am not nearly as diplomatic as my blogging counterpart, and can be quite snarky at times. Hopefully you'll find it refreshing, even if you disagree.

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I've just returned, and I'm already demanding things of you, dear readers. Anyone know of any (preferably good) a cappella Billy Joel covers? I'm making a cd for a friend's birthday, and thought you folk might have some recommendations.

VocalPoint video: "Thriller"

2007-02-06T12:19:00.000-08:00

ICCA West Region Quarterfinal 3 champions BYU Vocal Point won best choreography (and first place overall) with this performance of "Thriller."

I wish that the audio/video were synced, because it sounds fantastic. Anyway, this at least gives you a vague sense of this group's immense talent.

All-Night Yahtzee tears it up

2007-02-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

I may be from Florida, but I'll admit, I know very little about the southern a cappella scene. FSU's All-Night Yahtzee apparently blew away the competition this Saturday, scoring a whopping 431 points, beating the 2nd and 3rd place groups by almost 100 points and sweeping ALL of the special award categories. Now that's an act I wouldn't want to follow.

I do feel bad for UGA Noteworthy, who lost their chance to advance to semi-finals by 2 measly points. Things like that always break my heart a little. And In case you were wondering, I'm a Gator fan. Unfortunately, the 2 UF groups who competed didn't place. Tsk. Come on, guys, find a way to make me proud!

ICCA South Region
Quarterfinal 1: University of Georgia

1st: Florida State University All-Night Yahtzee (431 points)
2nd: University of Georgia Accidentals (337 points)
3rd: University of Georgia Notewothy (335 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Christopher Diaz of All-Night Yahtzee for “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk”
Outstanding Choreography: Caitlin Nelson of All-Night Yahtzee
Outstanding Soloist: Christopher Diaz of All-Night Yahtzee for “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk”
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Travis Smith of All-Night Yahtzee

Here's a recent clip of the group singing "Not Ready to Make Nice" by the Dixie Chicks.

There are also two clips up on YouTube from what I believe is Saturday's competition, but the quality is very poor. Take a look if you so desire!
http://youtube.com/watch?v=tfQR6AcdtYg
http://youtube.com/watch?v=3HQ5BwBjlsM

Thesis fun!

2007-02-05T09:43:00.000-08:00

If you live near Ann Arbor, Michigan, we'd like to encourage you to attend Josh Duchan's presentation of his doctoral dissertation research on collegiate a cappella. The event will take place this Friday, February 9th, at the University of Michigan. Josh, who sang with University of Michigan Amazin' Blue from 2001-2006 and the University of Pennsylvania Counterparts from 1999-2001, is a Ph.D. Candidate in Ethnomusicology. His dissertation, "Powerful Voices: Performance and Interaction in Contemporary Collegiate A Cappella" will be presented, "offer[ing] a case study including audio and video examples." Josh has asked people to email him at jduchan (at) yahoo.com for details.

Josh is a great sport, and a reader of this little blog of ours. Good luck, Josh! We wish we could be there.

And the ICCA results keep pouring in...

2007-02-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

More results from ICCA quarterfinals around the country. The One With the Tenor Problem attended the Midwest Quarterfinal at University of Illinois this weekend, and should have a more detailed report for us all sometime this week.

ICCA Midwest Region
Quarterfinal 1: University of Illinois

1st: University of Nebraska Rocktavo (351 points)
2nd: University of Illinois Rip Chords (324 points)
3rd: Miami University Misfitz (317 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Zakk Wooten and Michael Tully of Rocktavo for "Figaro"
Outstanding Soloist: Zack Bjornsen of Rocktavo
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Seth Lofgreen

I'll have to ask T.O.W.T.T.P. if the RipChords performed "Nobody's Supposed to Be Here." I witnessed their performance of the song a few weeks back in St. Louis, and if they brought it to ICCA, then Zack Bjornsen of Rocktavo must have been something truly amazing..I would have thought sophomore Sarah Park a shoo-in for the award.

More results...

ICCA West Region
Quarterfinal 3: University of California, Berkeley

1st: Brigham Young University Vocal Point (445 points)
2nd: Stanford University Raagapella (392 points)
3rd: University of California Golden Overtones (308 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Vocal Point for "Nearer My God"
Outstanding Choreography: Vocal Point for "Thriller"
Outstanding Soloist: Isaac of Mile 21
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Mohan of Raagapella

ICCA Mid-Atlantic Region
Quarterfinal 1: Syracuse University

1st: Syracuse University Orange Appeal (383 points)
2nd: Syracuse University Groovestand (381 points)
3rd: Ithaca College Premium Blend (326 points)
Outstanding Choreography: Orange Appeal for "The Battle"
Outstanding Soloist: Tinuke Oyefule of Groovestand for "Thank You"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Andrew Kurnan of Groovestand

Quarterfinal 2: Penn State University

1st: Penn State University Shades of Blue
2nd: SUNY-Buffalo Buffalo Chips
3rd: Rochester Institute of Technology Encore
(remaining results pending)

Awards, awards, awards! ICCA and CARA

2007-02-02T13:02:00.000-08:00

Before we get onto the fun stuff, I'd like to apologize for the lack of updates. The One With the Tenor One is in the midst of a move and I am in the midst of a disastrous hard-drive crash. Luckily, the men at CompUSA were very helpful.

CARA 2007 nominations came out February 1st, and here's the rundown:

Mixed Collegiate Album
Baggage Claim – Tufts Amalgamates
Get In. Rock. Get Out. – USC SoCal VoCals
Kenophobia – UPenn Off The Beat
Let it Play – Harvard Opportunes
Voices In the Attic– Suffolk U. Ramifications

Mixed Collegiate Song
Goodnight And Go – Suffolk U. Ramifications from Voices in the Attic
Hysteria – UCSB Naked Voices from Between the Sheets
Let Go– JMU Low Key from Long Time Comin’
Question! – UPenn Off the Beat from Kenophobia
When I Get You Alone – USC SoCal VoCals from Get In. Rock. Get Out.

Mixed Collegiate Solo
Christine Tagayun for Tell Me Somethin’ Good – Emory Ahana from AHANA…Soulful
David Rakita for When I Get You Alone – USC SoCal VoCals from Get In. Rock. Get Out.
Ryan Kawika Chun for Someone to Fall Back On – USC Reverse Osmosis from Reverse Osmosis
Shalisha Francis for How Many Times – Duke Rhythm & Blue from With The Windows Down
Tanya Komblevitz for Underappreciated – U. of Michigan Amazin’ Blue from Shades of Blue

Mixed Collegiate Arrangement
Heirloom by Kai Koschmider – York College Wibi from 20/20 Hearing
Such Great Heights by Matt Emery – Duke Rhythm & Blue from With The Windows Down
Tymps (The Sick In the Head Song) by Jason Ryterband – UPenn Off The Beat from Kenophobia
(This one REALLY surprised me. Not that it's a bad arrangement, I just don't think it's their best. And while the use of "Fiona" as a syllable is quite adorable at first, it gets a little irritating after a while.)
Undertow by Joshua Duchan – U. of Michigan Amazin’ Blue from Shades of Blue
Warning Sign by Eric Stahl and Evan Barnathan – Tufts Amalgamates from Baggage Claim

Male Collegiate Album
Abbeys Road – Boston U. Dear Abbeys
Ain’t Done Overnight – Brandeis U. VoiceMale
Barbershop Tragedy – JMU Exit 245
Bring It Back – Duke Pitchforks
Shotgun – U. of Richmond Octaves

Male Collegiate Song
Baba O’Riley – BU Dear Abbeys from Abbeys Road
Hysteria – Duke Pitchforks from Bring It Back
Lonely No More – U. of Richmond Octaves from Shotgun
Such Great Heights – MIT Logarhythms from Natural
Taken Up – St. Olaf College Limestones from Stone by Stone

Male Collegiate Solo
Brian King for Roxanne – JMU Exit 245 from Barbershop Tragedy
Chris Bryant for Used to Love U – Duke Pitchforks from Bring It Back
Chris Vu for Part Time Lover – MIT Logarhythms from Natural
Corey Frye for Ordinary People – Indiana U Straight No Chaser from Another Round
Victor Sandman for Kiss and Say Goodbye – BU Dear Abbeys from Abbeys Road

Male Collegiate Arrangement
Baba O’Riley by Victor Sandman – BU Dear Abbeys from Abbeys Road
Come Clean by Ben Mertz – U. of Richmond Octaves from Shotgun
King of Wishful Thinking by Ryan Ostrander and Mike Harrison– JMU Exit 245 from Barbershop Tragedy
Pure Imagination by Cooper Cerulo – UMass. Amherst Doo-Wop Shop from Black Friday
Superstition by Shaun Melvin – Oxford Out of The Blue from High Tide

Female Collegiate Album
99 Problems, but a Pitch Ain’t One – UGA Noteworthy
(Seriously...my group almost named our first album the SAME THING.(
Downstairs – UNC Loreleis
Now That We Have Your Attention – Clemson TakeNote
Rouge – Wellesley Tupelos
To Homer and Back – UVA Sillhooettes

Female Collegiate Song
Hear Me Out – UGA Noteworthy from 99 Problems, but a Pitch Ain’t One
Hysteria – UNC Loreleis from Downstairs
Kaval Sviri – BYU Noteworthy from On the Horizon
They – UVA Silhooettes from To Homer and Back
This Time Around – Clemson TakeNote from Now That We Have Your Attention

Female Collegiate Solo
Anne Foster for Broken Wing – UVA Silhooettes from To Homer and Back
Casey Branch for Wonderwall– UGA Noteworthy from 99 Problems, but a Pitch Ain’t One
Delia Darney for Stronger– UNC Loreleis from Downstairs
Heather Glotzer for If I Should Fall Behind – Muhlenberg College Girls Next Door from Wanted
Tori Kelly for There Is No Arizona – Wellesley Tupelos from Rouge

Female Collegiate Arrangement
Candleburn by Kat Dunbar and Erika Petty – UNC Loreleis from Downstairs
Criminal by Nitya Moothathu – Duke Deja Blue from Fashionably Late
Holding Out for A Hero by Melanie Leinbach – UVA Hoo’s In Treble from Amped
When Doves Cry by Maggie Smith – UGA Noteworthy from 99 Problems, but a Pitch Ain’t One
Zombie by Kerry Wagner – Wellesley Tupelos from Rouge

For the complete list of nominees, including pro-group nominees, click here.

In addition, here are updated results from ICCA:

ICCA West Region:
Quarterfinal 2: University of Oregon

1st: University of Oregon Divisi (417 points)
2nd: Oregon State University Outspoken (364 points)
3rd: University of Oregon On The Rocks (352 points)
Outstanding Choreography: Erika Barkett of Divisi
Outstanding Soloist: Scott Shearer of Outspoken for "Brighter Than The Sun"
Outstanding VP: Ali Davis of University of Arizona Vocal Ease for "Ain't Nobody"

ICCA New England Region
Quarterfinal 1: Boston University

1st: University of Massachusetts-Amherst Zumbyes (422 points)
(Who, incidentally, just had their album Feed the Puma reviewed *cough*torn to pieces*cough* by RARB. Check out their 2.7.)
2nd: Boston University Terpsichore (347 points)
3rd: Boston College Sharps (259 points)
Outstanding Choreography: The Zumbyes for "Thriller"
Outstanding Soloist: Yasmin Solomon of Terpsichore for "If You Really Love Me"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Katie Fernandez of the Sharps for "Listen to the Music"

Do you see this? Outstanding vocal percussion in both quarterfinals went to WOMEN. Ali Davis and Katie Fernandez, congratulations. Break those stereotypes!

ICCA West Region Quarterfinal 1 Best Soloist

2007-01-21T21:54:00.000-08:00

Thanks to YouTube, I was able to enjoy this clip of Rachel Howard from the UCLA Scattertones singing "At Last." Rachel won the Oustanding Soloist award at the UC-Santa Barbara ICCA Quarterfinal this past Saturday. In addition, The Scattertones won 1st place (with a whopping 431 points), best percussion, and best choreography. Now that's the way to do it! Congrats, guys.

I will say that I think there's something funky going on in this arrangement (though I can't pinpoint what,) but Rachel certainly has a lovely voice.

ICCA RESULTS as of January 22, 2007:

WEST REGION

Quarterfinal 1: University of California-Santa Barbara
1st: University of California-Los Angeles Scattertones (431 points)
2nd: University of Southern California Troy Tones (326 points)
3rd: California Polytechnic University Take it SLO (296 points)
Outstanding Arrangement: Noah Dietterich of Claremont Colleges Men's Blue & White
Outstanding Choreography: Valerie Caleca and Lauren Gould of the Scattertones
Outstanding Soloist: Rachel Howard of the Scattertones for "At Last"
Outstanding Vocal Percussion: Brian Zentmyer of the Scattertones

NORTHEAST REGION

Quarterfinal 1: University of Maine
1st: University of Maine Renaissance
2nd: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rusty Pipes
Outstanding Arrangement: Molly Webster of Renaissance for "Fiddle and Drum"
Outstanding Choreography: (tie) Randi Goldman of the Rusty Pipes for "Time is Running Out" and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Partial Credit for "Kiss the Girl"
Outstanding Soloist: Johanna Carroll and Shawn Jiles of the Rusty Pipes for "If I Ain't Got You"

Today's links

2006-12-31T13:14:00.000-08:00

RARB review of "Shotgun" from the University of Richmond Octaves. - Whoa! The University of Richmond Octaves get a 4.7 overall from RARB. Highest scores were in tuning, blend, energy, intensity, sound and production. Soloists overall were given a 3.7 -- still, not bad!

I'm quite happy, since the Octaves are responsible for one of my favorite a cappella recordings ever, "For Me This is Heaven" (CARA-nominated, from 2005's "Corner Pocket.") I didn't even like the original. They made me love the song. I also want to commend them for covering Hillary Duff ("Come Clean.") Reviewer Elie Landau says that Ben Mertz's solo is much better than Hillary's, though how much of a compliment that is, I'll let Ben decide.

The harshest review (which still resulted in a rating of 4/5 from the reviewer) came from Thomas King, who complained that the album seemed "overdone" and that "the 'humanness' has been nearly stripped from the group." He also felt that the musicality wasn't given as much attention as it could have been, noting missed opportunities for crescendo or moments (such as in "All At Sea") where it's all just too loud. Still, it seems more like an older brother type of review...King expresses that he's just disappointed because he knows how talented the Octaves are.

Congrats, Octaves.

RARB review of "Long Time Comin'" from James Madison University's Low Key, which received a 3.0. Their recording of "Let Go" appears on BOCA 2006. Visit Low Key at http://www.jmulowkey.com.

RARB review of "ToasterScent" from the UCLA Scattertones, which received a 3.7 overall. Visit the Scattertones at http://www.scattertones.com.

Aca-trend: "Snakes on a Plane (Bring It)"

2006-12-31T10:42:00.000-08:00

I thought Sufjan Steven's "Chicago" was going to be the next big a cappella song, but if the science of predicting aca-trends can rely on YouTube as a tool, it's clear that the song that will be on everyone's next album is Cobra Starship's "Snakes on a Plane (Bring It)." I was doing my favorite YouTube search a few weeks ago (search: "a cappella," organized by date added) and it seemed that overnight, all of the "Snakes" videos appeared at once. At least four groups have already performed the song, which broke into theaters (and our tender little hearts) when its video rolled during the closing credits of the much-hyped Samuel L. Jackson thriller.

The movie comes out on DVD on January 2nd, by the way.

But back to the song. What's the appeal? First, it's really catchy. Really. Try to get "So kiss me goodbyeeeee!" out of your head. It's going to haunt you. It will become the thing that plays over and over in your dreams. (Interestingly, the soundtrack to my dreams tends to be the theme from Caddyshack.) Second, it's perfect if you're looking to showcase more voices in your group, with its encouragement of a bari soloist, a tenor for the chorus, and at least one female for the counter.

Check out the snakes being x-rayed in the (absolutely ridiculous) video:

This is also one of those songs that can be either really ridiculous or really kick-ass, depending on how you play it. If it falls apart on stage, it's just goofy enough so that you can say, "Hey, it was a joke." But it's rockin' to the point where, if you do it right, it doesn't have to be labeled your "funny" song. It can be your best song, the one you take to competition.

Not that I'm encouraging anyone to do it. Come on, break out of the box...find a song you think no one will ever sing. You've got at least 2 months before a better group covers it.

Just kidding. Sort of.

None of the videos below are really awe-inspiring. The energy is great (which at least makes the song humorous) but, obviously, there are some tuning and tempo issues. (This isn't a problem so much in Off The Beat's version, but I think their female counter overdoes things a bit. I'm guessing it works well on stage.) For the most part, I don't think the groups have written or executed the counters well, but I'm hoping the recordings that come out of them might live up to the original.

Northwestern's Freshman Fifteen (YouTube)

Claremont Shades (YouTube)

Webster Groves High School's A-Men (I think...) (YouTube)

(See yesterday's post for U Penn Off The Beat's version.)

Buy "Snakes on a Plane (The Album) from iTunes
Buy "Snakes on A Plane (The Album)" from Amazon.com

Today's links

2006-12-28T17:27:00.000-08:00

A Cappella U's Videopodcast with U Penn Off The Beat (Live!) - Joey C's got video of OTB singing "Snakes on a Plane" (Cobra Starship) and "Mercy on Me" (Christina Aguilera.) I was so tickled to hear those trademark super-punctuated "zhen jo"s that seem to pop up in every song (from "Snakes" here to even "Fix You" on Kenophobia.) I wanted to start here by commenting on how full their sound is considering their small size, but all I can think about is the dress that soloist Donna Budica is wearing in the video. She looks really great, but can't the audience see her...umm...everything? Cute belt.

Aren't they pretty?

I'd always wondered how OTB stacked up live, and I'm pretty impressed. My co-contributor and I agree that there are some blend issues that could be addressed, but overall, it's good stuff. Definitely watch the interview with OTB's musical director...it's long, but it finally clears up those mysteries I've wondered about: how is their repertoire so fresh? How do they find time to record a full album each year? These are definitely some dedicated individuals.

RARB review of "Sing" from University of Colorado's Mile 21 a cappella - Mile 21 gets a 3.3 overall. Not bad for a group that formed in 2003. This isn't something I'm going to rush out to buy (like the review says, the production quality is a bit...1998), but I always like seeing a group put out a decent debut album. From the clips I've heard, I'll agree with RARB that "Sing is simple, unadorned singing." Check out Mile 21 here.

You can download "Sing" at acatunes.com.

Why "China" from BOCA 2004 might make babies cry

2006-12-28T17:14:00.001-08:00

Last night as I was brushing my teeth (with Colgate MaxFresh with Mini-Breath Strips...delicious) I was listening to Tori Amos' debut album "Little Earthquakes," which I'd finally gotten around to re-downloading. See, a computer crash back in 2004 resulted in the loss of this really beautiful album, which had been special to me for many many years. Seriously, when I was 15, this album was the solution to every one of my angsty issues, including break-ups, bad grades, the feeling that "omgz nobody is EVER going to understand me!!!11!!!", and my dad yelling at me to do the dishes when it was elimination night on American Idol.

In the time between 2004 and 2006, my memory of one of the disc's most beautiful tracks, "China," had been replaced by University of Michigan Amazin' Blue's version, which appeared on BOCA 2004. I'd never liked their version very much, but I didn't realize why until I rediscovered Tori.

Listen to the first verse and chorus of Tori's "China." (I suggest closing your eyes. Tori's a lovely woman, but that red hair might distract you from my point.):

And the first verse and chorus of Amazin' Blue's "China":

It's not that the "China" from Amazin' Blue is going to make anyone's ears bleed. It's a very pretty arrangement by Josh Duchan, with a lovely, competent solo by Whitney Bashor, great tuning, great energy, nicely mixed, etc. Everything's...solid. But everything is wrong.

What makes Tori's "China" so special? Here is a woman, openly and honstly singing about a growing emotional distance between herself and the person she loves. The song begins simply, with just the piano and Tori's voice, then adds in a haunting held high note as she sings "you're right next to me." It then builds to that incredible chorus, where Tori sings "Sometimes I think you want me to touch you" with those heartbreaking strings playing catch-up, trying to imitate and beautify that pain.

Here is the problem with covering Tori, particularly songs from "Little Earthquakes": those songs are brilliant because of that enigmatic, vulnerable voice that pours forth so effortlessly and insistently, as if the singer herself didn't know that the words were about to appear. In addition, you've got that simultaneously melancholy, biting, and beautifully twinkling piano. Without these elements, or without an adequate replacement for them, a bit of the magic is lost.

First, we'll start with the problem of the solo: People can imitate (or at least come close to imitating) many of those singers whose voices we often describe as "unique" or difficult to imitate: Chris Martin (on "Fix You", a very popular choice this year), Christina Aguilera, Ben Folds, Whitney Houston, etc. It's been done. But it takes a very special girl to imitate Tori Amos. A girl who's willing to toss aside all vocal tricks and connect to the music on a purely emotional level. A girl who isn't afraid to get dirty - to sound ugly, to sound broken. And even then, you're not imitating Tori. You're creating something new. And that's great, right? Of course.

But once you've got that down, you've got to figure out what to do with your block. And that's just never going to be right.

Tori's songs seem unrehearsed, unpretentious, unplanned. The a cappella covers I've heard just can't come close to capturing that quality. Everything seems so mapped out, so manufactured. This is music that was meant to be stripped down to its bare bones. This is a woman "standing naked before you" (as Amos herself sings on "Leather.")

What Amazin' Blue did, in my opinion, was attempt to fill in the empty spaces of the original. Those empty spaces, however, were essential to the song. Now there's too much going on, particularly in the song's beginning. Everyone's singing...everything's so pretty, so loud, so out in the open, and there's no where to go.

Also, it's just too damned fast.

The soloist, Bashor, has a pretty enough voice, but her interpretation, with its musical theatre diction, its too-too-pretty vibrato and it's attempt to spice the whole thing up....lacks all of the heart of Amos' original. Where's the vulnerability? That ache? Everything seems calculated. And NO NO NO NO NO, don't get fancy. What are you doing?

Perhaps this is a song I could have appreciated had I not had one of those classic adolescent encounters with "Little Earthquakes." You know what I'm talking about. 15-year-old discovers Tori Amos and lies on her carpeted bedroom for 3 days with the debut album on repeat. I think I frightened my father.

INTRODUCTION... Sing Out, Louise!

2006-12-28T17:04:00.000-08:00

I know what you're thinking. Two a cappella obsessed collegians at second-rate universities waxing poetic about 9ths and the nuances found in arrangements of "Africa." These girls probably didn't get into groups their first year of college, so instead started their own - buying old Gabe Rutman arrangements and praying to the highest of soprano heavens that they'd see more than two males at their auditions....girls can sing tenor, right? Right?!

Wrong, snarky readers. On all counts.

The Blonde One was born on a warm, southern afternoon with the pipes of an angel. Actually, she just informed me that it was snowing, and in Missouri. Whatever. After kicking vocal ass and graciously not taking names, she joined a group her sophomore year and took over in a matter of months. On our campus, her diplomatic personality and charm captivates audiences. One male in particular was so upset when an obnoxious audience member interrupted one of her solos that he punched him in the back of the skull and uttered the immortal line, "Nobody talks when (The Blonde One) is singing."

I'm 'The One with the Tenor Problem.' Corn-fed and well-bred, I am the grand-daughter of an opera singer and a cantor. My parents insist that I was singing harmonies at age two, and when The Blonde One and I met, I was incapable of singing along with the radio. My first collegiate phone call home was to my father. He offered the following advice: Study hard. Do your best. Get enough sleep. Don't forget to eat. And darling, whatever you do... don't date any tenors.

The Blonde One and I may be a cappella nerds, but if you have found your way here... you probably troll the RARB forum more than you admit to friends. Those friends, by the way, more than likely all sing (and no, your freshman roommate does not count). You too go into fits when someone sings karaoke, and it's just slightly flat. You know at least one of the parts to "Chili Con Carne" and find yourself wondering if the latest American Idol would have made it through your group's first round of auditions. You're on a first-name basis with people that most likely have never heard of you (Bill, Deke, Tat, Gabe, Morgan, Freddie).

Own it. We certainly do. We're both damn good singers with a realistic understanding of the way things work. A cappella is a labor of love, and people take things personally... so an anonymous start is necessary so things don't get political. We want to offer our opinions, along with news, gossip, and thoughts on life in our little world. Honesty is something we value a great deal in our writing, music, and friendship....and that's what you'll find here.

So welcome, you singer-of-thirds. We promise it will be amusing.