@tolun99 Finally, I've come to one you alone recommended and boy, was this a great choice! These guys are GREAT! Thank you so much for the introduction to this acapella group. If there wasn't for you I would sure be missing a lot. ❤❤❤
I'm thrilled you liked it! I'm not surprised since our taste so often match. It reminded me so much of the same reaction I had myself when watched it the first time. The harmonies of Pentatonix is very hard to beat. There are others like the Bee Gees that comes to mind, but this group make it work so well with each member being very talented. Loved your reaction as always. ❤❤
I love how TH-cam thinks! A comment in reply to a pinned comment doesn't even show up for me in the Studio, until I literally look for it. 😂 I expected to love it, knowing who suggested it, and you were not wrong - I did! So glad to hear our reactions were similar, like our taste in music. See you soon on the next one and thank you, once again! You dug up a diamond here. ❤❤❤
The first soloist, Scott, takes over bass from Avi, the second soloist when he has his solos. The young lady is Kirsten and she's out of this world. Mitch is the fourth soloist and has an incredible range. Kevin is the beatboxer and yes it's all chest slapping, clapping, foot stomping, and his voice. Let me just thank you for your appreciation of Kirsten. So many times, she gets overlooked because people aren't ready for Mitch's voice. I'm so happy to see her get some amazing attention. I loved your reaction and am subscribing so I can see more.
Thank you and welcome to the channel Montana! ❤ Many have told me there's more to Scott and also that many people overlook Kirstin. I think I had some preparation for Mitch in the form of Dimash and Marcelito Pomoy, so he wasn't that much of a shock, though his voice is lovely. Maybe that's what helped me focus on all of them rather than just Mitch. Kirstin, like Avi and Mitch in this performance really deserves the praise. That's a tough bit to sing for anyone. Yes, I will certainly listen to more of PTX and I do hope you'll enjoy the journey. 😊
If you think that it is impossible for an acapella group to perform a song that has no words...think again. Listen to their version of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. The official video is fabulous too and this performance won them a Grammy.
I don't think that, especially after this arrangement, but that fact is not going to stop me from hearing an a cappella instrumental. Thanks for adding that to the suggestions!
Subbed for more PTX! Kevin the beatboxer is a musical genius. He eats a whole drumset for Breakfast, just letting you know...LOL! Sound of Silence is a great one by them too! The drums by Kevin in Bohemian Rhapsody cover of Queen is an outstanding example. Welcome to the Rabbit Hole! I was not disappointed by your beautiful smile when it came through! I was waiting for it! When PTX does covers they make it upgrades.
Thank you, I am glad you enjoyed this! Both of those songs are such classics, so I will be sure to listen to the Pentatonix renditions. After this, I do expect a lot from them - this is the best version of Hallelujah I have ever heard and there have been so many...
The only explanation for that in my mind is that they all have so much talent and both Avi and Mitch bring a bit of a shock, so it's hard for most people to let it all sink in. I just focus a lot each time I listen to something new and Kirstin really is amazing here. 😊
@AleksReacts They did a cover of Say Something where Kirsty takes the lead role. Avi is still in the group at this time. It's fantastic. Kevin gets to play the cello and there is a bit of a surprise at the end most new viewers don't expect.
Hmmm, what a way to "sell" a song... Added to the very long list. I did not expect so many suggestions nor so many people to even notice the reaction, but I'm very happy you all did. Then again, keeping up with the comments is really, really hard and I am fast typist. 😂
Pentatonix a "brief" background. They won The Sing Off in 2011. They made a guest starring appearance on America′s Got Talent as non−competitors a couple of years after that. The founding members are:- Scott Hoying (tall blond guy, natural baritone but has an impressive five−to−six octave range, can go all the way up to high tenor and down to bass, sings the bass lines when the usual bass singer takes the lead);
Kirstin "Kirstie" (Rhymes with "Thirsty") Maldonado (the only female member, natural mezzo soprano, but can go down to low alto and as high as upper soprano, also can sing in whistle notes that are off the scale); For a time in 2018 between the group’s tours, had the female lead on Broadway in the production of “Kinky Boots”. Mitch Grassi (a true contra−tenor, can hit high notes in his chest voice with ease and go WAY higher in his falsetto, also with ease); Avriel "Avi" Kaplan (dark beard and long hair), true basso profundo, trained as an opera singer, also can go up into the tenor range; and Kevin "KO" Olusola (beatboxer extraordinaire, also is a world−class cellist who plays cello on some of their songs, has a beautiful high tenor voice and gets occasional lead vocal solos as well, graduated pre−med from Yale and speaks several languages including Mandarin Chinese). Kirstie, Scott & Mitch grew up together in Arlington, Texas, and began performing together as children in local youth musical theater. They ended up in high school together and performed in the choir. While there, they formed an a cappella group called The Trio which had several performance videos go viral on TH-cam, most notably a cover of Lady Gaga′s "Telephone". The three of them are best friends and consider themselves to be almost siblings. Scott & Kirstie (who were a class year ahead of Mitch) both graduated high school in 2010 and went their separate ways to different colleges, Scott at USC and Kirstie at Oklahoma. While at USC, Scott joined a USC−based a cappella group called the SoCal VoCals, where he met alumnus Ben Bram, who was now an arranger and vocal coach for the NBC TV show The Sing Off, an a cappella competition show. Ben convinced Scott to get The Trio to audition for the show. The three reunited (Mitch had to skip high school graduation ceremonies to go) in Los Angeles for the audition. They found out that the rules had changed, so they needed at least five members to audition. Ben put them together with Avi (a native of Visalia, California), who he knew from Avi′s performing days at Mount San Antonio College in California. They found Kevin (from Kentucky) through one of his TH-cam videos that had gone viral featuring him playing the cello and beatboxing at the same time, a talent that Kevin coined as "Cello−Boxing". Kevin arrived in Los Angeles literally the day before the audition! Scott came up with the name "Pentatonix" after the pentatonic scale. They performed a re−arrangement of "The Telephone" for the audition and passed, despite having been together as a five−piece group for less that 24 hours! They won The Sing Off that season (all of the performances are available on TH-cam), in which they received a substantial cash prize AND a record contract with Epic Records. They pooled their prize winnings together and all moved to Los Angeles, and all got apartments right next door to each other in the same building. But just a week later, Epic dropped them because the marketing people didn′t think an a cappella group could sell records. Instead of giving up, they were determined and began recording their own songs on TH-cam, hiring Ben Bram as their producer and arranger. These usually consisted of the five of them sitting on a couch and performing cover songs live. Several of the videos went viral, and Sony (the parent company of Epic) decided to give them another chance by placing them on one of their smaller labels, Madison Gate. They released two secular EPs and one Christmas EP on Madison Gate, all of which were strong sellers. But when their cover of a medley of songs by Daft Punk not only went super−viral, but also won them their first Grammy, they were promoted all the way up to RCA Records, Sony′s top label. They began writing and producing their own songs in addition to their covers, began putting out a Christmas album just about annually (which has become their best−selling genre), and have had multi−platinum album sales, sold−out world tours, and have won two additional Grammys. Avi began getting burned out with all of the touring and heavy recording schedule, was suffering from anxiety and personal problems, and learned that his mother had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He announced he was departing from the group and taking some time away from the music industry. Matt Sallee (from Baltimore) joined them in September 2017. He did only become official when they renewed their RCA contract in February 2018, but he recorded with them in September as a featured artist and went on their Christmas tour as a featured artist, as well. When he attended the audition for the group, he had already mastered the Bass part for most if not all their past catalogue. He was successful and has proved that he fits in well with the group. If you think there have been other changes to the line up - look again. This is the ONLY change. Kirstie and Mitch are like chameleons and change looks frequently. It is an often debated subject among the Pentaholics as to just how soon we introduce the "Beginners Guide" as we don't want to overdo the introduction. This is a compilation of snips of a whole load of songs which PTX have released. It highlights each member with some of their solos and then a brief history in video. It is quite long - 14+ minutes and is a little dated now (Feb 2020) but is a good watch th-cam.com/video/lDxIfwfCmQE/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUdYmVnaW5uZXJzIGd1aWRlIHRvIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D. After a year away from music, Avi has now returned as a phenomenal solo artist in the Folk/Americana/Roots genre. Ben Bram has been in charge of their production, including arranging and directing from the beginning. He is often referred to as the sixth member. Scott and Kevin are major players in the arrangements, but every member contributes. A good watch is "The Recording of Evergreen" where a camera was invited into the studio for the second week of recording/ Also, all members are songwriters for both Pentatonix and their own solo work. Ed Boyer who mixes everything of theirs (even the HWB Livestream) is the one who pulled Ben Bram into the sing off in the first place. They have Grammy wins for Daft Punk Medley, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Jolene featuring Dolly Parton. They were nominated for a 4th Grammy for their album Evergreen, but didn't win. Another nomination for Holidays Around the World album in the 2024 list! Kirstie became a new mum which caused a pause in touring after their Evergreen Christmas tour 2021. Mid March 2023 Kirstie has announced that she is engaged to Ben Hausdorff, their videographer. They married 22/04/24! They have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame installed in February 2023. They are the only a capella group with a star! They came 3rd in the 2023 Masked Singer performing as "California Rolls" being unmasked in May 23. Things you need to know because if you get these wrong Pentaholics will come after you with pitch forks and torches! Ha Ha!! 1- There is NO Auto-Tune; what you hear is actually what they sing. They really are that good. One exception is the 90's Dance Medley where Cher used autotune as an effect - so they had to. 2- What produces everything that you hear in the video, you see in the official video. If there is an instrument used in the music, you see it on screen. In the 2022 Christmas album, there are some instruments not featured throughout the album. 3- They never release something on video they can’t reproduce with the exact same quality live on-stage. 4. It is "Pentatonix" there is no "The".
Wow, that was brief. 🤣 Thank you so much for the history of the group - they sure achieved a lot and I can't believe I'm only discovering them now. I'll comment on a couple of things: 1. I'd love to her Pentatonix & Dolly Parton singing Jolene together. Daft Punk Medley also sounds promising. 2. The fact that they made it on their own is what I love about music today - most of the artists I've reacted to actually came up/are coming up on their own through TH-cam (like Angelina Jordan, Ren, Diana Ankudinova, Lucy Thomas, Dimash, etc.) 3. It's cool that they've been together so long, though I'm sad to hear that Avi (the voice I liked the most along with Kirstin) left them 4. Thanks for the heads up on the change of looks for Kirstin and Mitch, I'll be on the lookout. Thanks again and I do hope you'll stick around for more of Pentatonix reactions, but I also hope that you'll discover some very cool artists. I've been lucky to have attracted an amazing group of people and almost no suggestions have been average. Quite a lot of excellent artists out there for all of us to discover.
@@AleksReacts Daft Punk When you do "Daft Punk" set yourself up for a double. th-cam.com/video/3MteSlpxCpo/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUUZGFmdCBwdW5rIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D You will think that there is post production skipping, so to disprove that you need to catch the "Private Performance" th-cam.com/video/tw4YCsHXKgI/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUUZGFmdCBwdW5rIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D where they stand at the front of a back-stage room and sing with no mic's and captured on a fan mobile device so the sound is not 100% hence catch the official FIRST.
@AleksReacts. I must say I thoroughly enjoyed your reaction! I haven’t seen someone who is new to them these days, and peoples initial reactions are so fun to watch! I’ll be checking out your other videos and I have subscribed.
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! I hope you'll enjoy the journey with PTX and also that some of my reactions will help you discover some cool artists. So far, it's been immense fun for me. 😊
You are very observant and I love that. Great reaction. Thanks. Mitch the counter tenor is the favorite for many. Check out Daft Punk, Amazing Grace, O Holy Night, Bohemian Rhapsody. You are almost psychic in your observations.
@@AleksReacts Since you plan to react to other videos of theirs, I will subscribe. I enjoy your reactions. To we Pentaholics, watching others experience Pentatonix afresh is like watching a two-year-old taste ice cream for the first time ... we get to experience that thrill over and over. Thank you!
I do hope you'll enjoy future reactions. Don't limit yourself to Pentatonix, though. Whether you watch my reactions or original videos which are in each video description, you might discover some new stuff that's really good. 😉
This group is a huge wonderful rabbit hole to go down. They have been together for many years and have a HUGE body of work. They really are marvelous. You will enjoy all of them. Avi, Kaplan the low bass has left the group and is now a solo artist. You are correct that Scott, the tall blonde does many of their arrangements but they do have an arranger for most of their music. People say their favorite Pentatonix song is the one that is currently playing. The three original singers, Scott Kirstie and Mitch have known each other since middle school. They won a television competition in around 2011 having picked up Kevin, the beat boxer and Avi the bass. They sing mostly pop/contemporary genre but are known for their Christmas albums. Maybe in the month ahead you could feature some of those. I suggest Carol of the Bells or Dance of the Sugarplum fairy.
We shall find out, as I plan to dig a little deeper. I really loved the originals of some of the songs they covered, so it should be fun to hear their covers in a cappella versions. Good to hear that I wasn't totally off regarding Scott, but I hear there's more to the guy. Soooo, more to come. Welcome to the channel, Clark!
Avi Kaplan, with the beard, is an operatically trained basso profundo; however, when he takes the melody line, Scott Hoying, the blond, is a baritone with a five-octave range and picks up the bass harmonies due to his incredible range. Mitch Grassi, in the hat, is a counter-tenor who also has a fantastic range. The black man is Kevin Olusola, who provides beatboxing, is a marvelous tenor, and plays the cello. Kirsten Mandolado is an outstanding mezzo-soprano.
Wonderful reaction to a great video! Many Pentatonix fans are singers and musicians, so we always appreciate as deep of a review as you gave. Avi Kaplan, with the beard and beanie, was a trained operatic bass prior to joining the group, and his voice is so rich and powerful, it does shake you. He was with the group from when they formed in 2011 until 2017, when he was replaced by Matt Sallee, also a wonderful bass. That has been the only change in the group. The beatboxer has a nice tenor voice and also has a lovely falsetto. A couple videos where you get to hear each of these five sing a verse are Imagine, a John Lennon cover, and Mary Did You Know, a cover of a Christmas song. Love to see your reaction to either of those. By the way, that little trill during the humming at the end was actually Mitch, with the hat.
Thank you so much for everything you've said! This is a great video and in my opinion the best rendition of this song I have ever heard. So far, Avi, Kristin and Mitch have impressed me, but it seems there's more to this group, so I'll keep going. 😊 Oh, yes, I've been told about Mitch being the one singing the trill at the end - I did not get that at all, but there's time. The more I hear, the easier it should be to discern who's singing (I hope 😂)
I really enjoyed this reaction. Thank you for reacting to Pentatonix (PTX)! Their catalog is extensive and crosses several genres. I hope you'll go down the PTX rabbit hole....you won't be disappointed. I'll be back for all PTX reactions you do.
Thank you so much, my new citrus-based friend! 😊 Though I will keep going with PTX for sure - I LOVED this one, I strongly suggest rummaging a bit through the channel. So far I've only been introduced to really cool artists, many of whom I think are deserving of a much bigger audience. Welcome to the channel and I do hope we'll have fun listening to great music together. ❤
Thanks for reacting to this! My favorite group. Kevin is an extraordinary beatboxer who also sings on some songs and also plays cello occasionally. You can see more of him in their videos of Bohemian Rhapsody, Daft Punk Medley, and Kiss From a Rose.
Hello to Idaho and welcome! You've just listed 2 songs I love + Daft Punk (which I kind of like). There will certainly be more by PTX, as it seems they covered a lot of the songs I like and I really enjoyed this one (which I wasn't even a big fan of). 😊
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! I'm actually more of a layman, but I have enjoyed music all my life and have some elementary music education. Helps understand the basics. Very glad you enjoyed the reaction and I can assure you, more will come. They definitely have my attention. ❤
"The bass just came in." Avi: Hold my beer for 5 seconds. "That's high." Mitch: Hold my beer for 5 seconds. Pentatonix has a way of surprising everyone who hears them for the first time. All of them are great singers individually, but somehow together they become completely indescribable singers! And you were correct when you talked about "two basses" during Avi's solo verse - sort of. Avi Kaplan (the bearded guy) was the bass singer for the first several years of Pentatonix's career, before he left (amicably) for personal reasons, and now has a solo career - he's definitely worth a listen. When he (or Matt Sallee, the current bass singer who took over after Avi left) is singing a solo, the first singer, blond Scott Hoying, actually sings the bass part in concerts (there is (still!) some discussion over whether Avi's bass line was multi-tracked for the studio recording, which is what you're hearing in the video). Scott is nominally a baritone, but his range goes from medium-low bass up into medium tenor range. That's something most of the member have in common - very large ranges, and being able to switch in and out for someone else to cover that range when needed. You'll especially hear it with Kirstin and Mitch, whose ranges overlap almost completely. And yes, Mitch's voice has often been mistaken for a female by someone hearing it for the first time. I'm so glad you enjoyed your first experience listening to Pentatonix - I hope you'll enjoy many more!
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel, Badger! 😊 I'll just quote you, as we so agree on this, especially now I know that Scott was the one singing the 2nd bass: "All of them are great singers individually, but somehow together they become completely indescribable singers!" What I really like is that they all give space for each of them to shine individually and yet harmonize so perfectly as a group. The only reason Mitch didn't shock me is the fact that I have heard Dimash and Marcelito Pomoy before listening to PTX - both sing crazy high notes, though Dimash really is a few notes above anyone I've ever heard, male or female. I'm sure we'll both enjoy the journey, as I will continue to delve into what PTX can do. Thank you again! ❤❤❤
You have been Mitch-Slapped. Mitch is a counter-tenor. His range is insane. Welcome to the world of Pentatonix. You must check out their Daft Punk medley next. It will blow you away.
I believe I've been Mitch, Avi and Kirstin-slapped in one go. 😂 This community keeps pointing me in great directions and Pentatonix is definitely an interesting find. I will keep going for sure. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. 😊
That gorgeous, silky, velvet chocolate of a bass is Avi Kaplan (long hair, beard). In live performance, Scott (blonde, 1st singer) takes over the bass but for this recording, they have stated in interviews that they looped Avi's bass for continuity.
I literally have nothing to add. You described Avi's voice to perfection and we agree. It's not just deep, but so wonderfully rich and velvety (I used that adjective before and now I keep seeing it in each comment). 😊
@AleksReacts he a beautiful soul and the world is better off with his voice in it. Avi, along with Ben Bram and Rob Dietz started the A Cappella Academy back in 2012 in Southern California for the youth...like music summer camp. He still shows up every year to put on workshops.
Don't know them well enough yet, so my focus is on the music only for now. Started that way with Lara Fabian and with Angelina Jordan and in time I'm got to see their personalities coming through as well. Especially fell in love with Lara after a while... Just my own process, so for now, I'll listen to the music and then we'll see if their personalities grow on me...
@AleksReacts beautifully said. Music can heal the soul. I love Angelina Jordan. You might would like Haley Reinhardt..especially her work with Postmodern Jukebox (they take modern songs and rework them into a jazz sound from the '20s-'60s)
Thank you! Added to the list, but please set your expectations low. That way I cannot easily disappoint when it takes me a long time to get to someone new. 😊
Few reactors get everything right like you did. Spotting two bass singers. Check. The guy can't generate all that sound w/o beat boxing. Check. Comments about how difficult it is to get the harmonies right. Check. Their ranges. Check.
Thank you so much, Victor! I do my best to concentrate and really focus on what I'm listening to. We're all human, so I won't always catch everything or even be correct in my assumptions, but there's some fun in guesswork too. ❤
He is a beatboxer and a tenor - Mitch is the countertenor, then Kirstin is a mezzo, Scott is a baritone but sings bass when Avi is singing up, and Avi is a basso profundo
Boy did you pretty much hit the nail on the head. Scott did get the group together, and is a sort of de facto leader. They collaborate on arrangements with the 6th invisible member, Ben Bram.
You win some, you lose some. I also managed to think Kevin sang the bass, so stands to reason that one of the assumptions was at least partly right. 😂 It was Scott's body language along with his voice that made me think that. I loved the arrangement btw, and they sure did a great job! Thanks for letting me know there's a guy "in the shadows" helping out with those.
Avi (the bearded one) is the deep base). When he started singing, Scott (the first singer) took over for him very effectively. Avi left the group after he recruited a very able replacement. Kevin ("the black guy") is the beat boxer who is also a wonderful cello player. You just listened to the best and most creative acapella group. "Home Free" and "Voiceplay" are the other giants of acapella.
I really like the deep bass, but all together they made the best cover of this song I have ever heard. I do want to hear more... Noted on "Home Free" and "Voiceplay" - thank you!
I've been watching reactions to Pentatonix since the beginning of the pandemic, and I thoroughly enjoyed this one. You have a keen ear and it's a pleasure to hear you point out what is happening. Many fans of Pentatonix, or PTX, have favorites, but I think they are all awesome in their own lane. Kevin, the beatboxer, is multi-talented in so many ways that it's hard to believe he is human. He will sing on some of their songs and will play the cello as well. But that just scratches the surface of areas in which he excels. The group has covered Christmas with several albums, and with the season upon us, this is a good time to discover them.
Thank you so much! Very glad to hear you have enjoyed this one, especially after listening to so many - it's a huge compliment. It's normal to have favorites, as art is always primarily subjective in my view. Even my focus was on 3 out of 5 PTX members, but maybe that's true for this song alone... I would love to hear more, so I will. Many have told me to include a Christmas song, so that will happen too.
The black man is Kevin Olisula. Musically, Kevin is a high tenor, a beat-boxer, and an accomplished cello player. He can play the cello and beat-box at the same time. He calls it cello-boxing. Outside of the music world Kevin is an all-around genius and renaissance man. He is a very intelligent man. The three in the middle are friends from their public school days in Texas. They would sing together in school, at each others homes, and even when ordering burgers at McDonald's! They basically grew up singing together and their harmonizing can be attributable to their long, shared history. Be well, from a long-time Pentaholic.
If proof is needed that you are a Pentaholic, one just has to read all the comments. As a chatterbox myself, I "forgive" you the prolific comments and warmly welcome you to my channel! I do hope you'll enjoy music with me - we already have two things in common - we both really like this performance and we both talk a lot, but you are sharing some cool insights. ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reaction to PTX. About Scott (the blond), he does assist in arranging - as do all of this group of extremely talented musicians, but the mastermind who does many of their arrangements is their 6th unseen member, Ben Bram. They do quite a lot of cover songs, but they are all writers in their own right- as well. Some of my favorite songs of theirs are originals.From left to right: Kevin Olusola is the beat boxer, and yes, although this video doesn't show him using his mouth to create the percussion much, other, live performances show that he definitely is using his whole body for the beat. Kevin is a concert level cellist and he plays multiple other instruments as well. The group all agrees that while Mitch is known for his high voice, Kevin's voice is the highest in the group. See that in Imagine. Next to him is the amazing counter-tenor Mitch Grasse. Your surprise is what's known as the Mitch slap. This song was just the tip of the iceberg of how high he can sing. He has such a pure and beautiful voice. See him especially in The Prayer. Kirstin Maldonado (Kirsti) is a mezzo and can sing whistle notes as well as lower alto notes. See her in her original song from last Christmas, Please, Santa, Please. Scott Hoying, the one who brought these people together in 2011, but isn't considered the band leader, has a range going from medium low bass to high tenor. He's the baritone and the soul voice of the group with a pop flair to it. He's very versatile and plays the piano. I love his heartfelt original, Thank You - a perfect song to listen to at this holiday season. Avi Kaplan, the basso profundo of the group has a velvety tone and a decent upper range considering how low he can sing. Although no longer in the group (he left amicably in 2016 due to personal reasons), he now has a solo career worth checking out. I particularly love him in Scott's original song, Light in the Hallway Matt Sallee (not in this song; he is the bass singer since 2017 - I won't say he replaced Avi because no one could do that and because Matt is fabulous in his own right). He's got a fabulous bass with a very good upper range as well. Another holiday song for him is You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch. The three in the middle (Mitch, Kirsti, and Scott) have known each other since childhood and sang together most of those years. They added Kevin and Avi to join the show The Sing Off in 2011, an a capella competition where they won season 3. They took the name Pentatonix from the pentatonic scale since there were 5 of them, so you got that perfectly right! Anyway, that's a quick rundown of them. Enjoy getting to know this group; they are fabulous and have more than 300 songs to hear and watch. Check out the ones I listed for each of the singers to get a good snapshot and eclectic look at who they are. Oh, and a few more, White Winter Hymnal, Sing!, Papaoutai, and Gold - just because those are some of my favorites of theirs
Thank you so much for a very well structured and informative breakdown of the most important details about any group - members and their musical abilities. This is a very useful and thoughtful comment. I can immediately say that if Ben Bram is the mastermind behind the arragement, he's really good at it. This arrangement is amazing and really focuses on each of the singers and brings some joy to an otherwise heavy song... Kevin's voice being the highest might be a bit of a shock, but I will be sure to check out Imagine now that you've intrigued me. I can't believe you just described Avi's voice as velvety. That is exactly how I've been describing it in all the comments before I even got to yours. Now, I'm off to write down all the suggestions you gave me to illustrate individual abilities. Once again, thank you for that! Yes, I will be including your favorite songs too. Your comment is very much appreciated.
@@AleksReacts Ben Bram has a lot to do with arranging, but the entire group is involved in the process. As you get to know the group more, you can sometimes recognize each member's touch on arrangements. I started out like you with Scott (good voice, nasal tone, not my favorite), but I have grown to really appreciate all that he offers through my years of following this group. That said, Avi is my hands-down favorite, and I love his solo music now that he is not with PTX. Most of it fits somewhere in the folk/Americana genre.
I got the feeling Avi has a hold of many musically-inclined hearts and that Matt is not everyone's favorite replacement. Still, even though I said the same you did with this first song, I loved them all together, so I will certainly hear more and discover more...
@@AleksReacts Don't let anyone discount Matt. He's newer and usually their base now but he has a great voice. Listen to O' Holy Night and Sound Of Silence to hear a bit more from him! Nobody can replace Avi's unique voice however.
After so many comments on Scott, I want to hear more of what he can do as well. 😊 Also, don't forget that Avi and Kirstin kind of blew me away too. This will be fun. Welcome to the channel, Melissa! I do hope you'll enjoy it. ❤
Dear Aleks, I really loved this. I knew them from singing Jolene with Dolly Parton. But here they were soudnging like her orchestra. This harmony with one of my favorite songs is great. Specially the crescendo Thanks as always, and love from Amsterdam. ❌❌❌ (Amsterdam flag, three Andreas crosses) ♥♥♥
Dear Gerda, thank you so much! Once again we agree. I loved it too and I really want to hear Jolene as well, especially if it's with Dolly. That has to be a treat. Love from Serbia, where 3 is also an important number (hence the frequent use of 3 hearts on my end). Something else we have in common. ❤❤❤
Love your reaction. PTX is great!! Looking to hear more from PTX. I think you will change your mind about Scott after you've listened to more. Can't wait 😊
Aleks, we all owe a musical debt to the late Leonard Cohen (R.I.P.), who wrote this and so many classic compositions......as always, we all have our likes and dislikes......while there are many quality covers, this PTX performance is truly inspiring........
@@AleksReacts I, too, find his voice "unsettling".......however, his song writing (especially the lyrics) is legendary, inspiring many modern artists.......cheers !
They all have incredible ranges. The first guy to sing is Scott, and he is naturally a baritone but takes over the bass line when the bass sings a verse. He has very many qualities to his voice ( try Sound of Silence, Imagine, Shallow, O Holy Night, Carol of the Bells). The second singer is Avi and is a basso profundio but can also go pretty high. He amicably left the group in 2017 and now has a solo career. The “new” bass is Matt, since 2018, and this has been the only change in the group. The third singer is Kirstie (rhymes with thirsty) and she is an alto/soprano. The fourth singer is the once-in-a-lifetime countertenor Mitch. When the group has been asked who is the best singer in group, they always point to Mitch. His accuracy and tone and range are incredible. The last member is Kevin, who has so many talents it’s mind boggling. He beat boxes (while playing cello), plays cello, saxophone, speaks Mandarin and had just received his pre-med from Yale when he decided to join these 4 others on a show called The Sing Off in 2010. They won, and pooled their prize money to move to LA for their record contract prize. The record label dropped them because they didn’t think a Capella was a marketable medium. Pentatonix decided to record themselves and post videos on TH-cam where they developed a huge following. They now have 3 Grammy wins, plus 2 other nominations, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and sold-out concerts all over the world. Their catalog is huge. Pick any song…..you will not be disappointed. Oh, and if you have to ask ‘is that Mitch’ or is that Kirstie’, the answer is yes. They change their looks a lot. Hope you do more PTX because they are phenomenal. Subscribing!
Welcome to the channel, Judith and thank you for sharing bountiful information about the group! Someone else mentioned that Scott actually sings the bass while Avi (thanks for the names) is singing his verse, so that has "redeemed" Scott in my eyes. 😉 Since I've only just discovered them and I happen to like them a lot at first listen, there will certainly be more. I do hope you'll enjoy the future reactions too and that you'll especially enjoy the lovely community that I was lucky to attract. Some wonderful people here who share their love for music, who've introduced me to great performances and made this a very enjoyable activity for me and others who visit. ❤❤❤
If you enjoyed this version, they very recently did a live version, which, in my opinion, tops this one. Be warned that Avi (the original bass is not in the NEW video. Matt, who replaced Avi, is. I must say that he's a great addition to PTX. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy!
Truth be told, I don't think I'll be reacting to it, but I've already been told that I must hear it. Fans often know what they're talking about. Hence, I will be sure to hear it (if I don't get to the reaction part). Thank you! 😊
@@robertmoralez-muniz6122I still prefer the original. But that's not a hill I will die on as both versions are great. I think it's because I prefer Avi over Matt. (Matt is amazing)
I definitely prefer the original with Avi but I prefer Avi to Matt and have not listened to their music post 2017 except twice. Matt is an acceptable bass for the sound the group was going forward with.
Scott has said that if being a singer wouldn't pan out for him, he would've wanted to arrange music for the movies. Also, it's been a year or more since we first heard from Scott that PTX was involved in trying to get a musical play onto the Broadway stage and that they were in preliminary talks. It usually takes years & years for everything to come together, so we're still very hopeful. I'm betting Scott just might be wanting the Arranger's job. Oh. And I believe Scott has just been nominated for a Grammy for his arrangement on one of his solo works.
Aha! So I wasn't totally off on Scott being a big part of the arrangements. It was a gut feeling, by the way. Glad to hear I can still trust my instincts a bit. 🤨 Hopefully, they all still have a long and beautiful life and career before them. 😊
That was actually Mitch throwing that in at the end, lol, not Kirstin. To give Mitch a proper hearing, I think you'll want to hear more. I suggest their lovely cover of "The Prayer" in which he sings the Celine Dion part. They say Kirstin is a Mezzo Soprano, but she has an incredible range, as does Scott, who is technically a baritone, but covers the bass when the bass solos and also sings in a lovely high range. I would also suggest you listen to their recently released live version of this song. It's easier to see what everyone is doing, it's a nice way to see where they are almost a decade later, and since this is their number one hit, they sing it all the time, so they have made changes to the arrangement, particularly at the end. Also, of course, Avi, their original bass is no longer with them, so it is a nice introduction to Matt who has been their bass for about 8 years, now. I enjoyed your reaction. They have a very deep catalog of covers, originals, Christmas music, collaborations and solo side projects, earning 3 Grammys with 5 nominations, so there is a lot to explore should you choose to. I subbed in hopes for more!
First of all, welcome to the channel and thank you so much for your thoughtful and informative comment! These are the kind of comments I enjoy. The ones I can learn from, like totally missing who's singing the bit at the end and attributing Kevin with the bass that was in fact Scott. Seriously, thanks for telling me. 😊 I can definitely say I want to hear quite a lot more from PTX, especially since I loved the arrangement along with really great voices harmonizing so well together. All the suggestions are written down, so I'll take them one at a time. Thanks again! ❤
Scott, tall blonde guy is a baritone with a wide range. He is the one who takes over the bass when the bass sings his verse. The guy in the hat is Mitch, he's a counter-tenor. That double take you did when you heard him go high is called the 'mitch-slap'.
LOL @ the Mitch-slap! Ah, as I wasn't aware it was Scott singing the bass on that verse, I have to admit I did not think much of him - everyone else seemed a lot better. Now that I do know, hmm, seems I was wrong. Thanks for telling me that! 😊
@@AleksReacts Thanks for replying. This video is sort of in the middle of their journey so far. They have levelled up several times since then and they are quite a bit older now. Their voices have matured. They are due to start their Christmas tour any day now. Perhaps if you saw them live, you would get a better appreciation for their talent. Btw, I 'm watching you from T&T. 🇹🇹
Wow, Trinidad and Tobago! Another first coming with PTX! Welcome, welcome! ❤❤❤ I'll listen to quite a few more by Pentatonix, and I sure hope you'll enjoy future reactions as well. I hope I will too, otherwise what's the point. 🤣
Our beloved Pentatonix. Their harmonies is insane. We Pentaholics love love reactions. For a Acapella group they are massive. 20,2 million subscribers on their channel. PLEASE READ THE COMMENTS OF ALAN FREEMAN in the comment section. They have fans all over the world. You are so appreciated for reacting to the greatest Acapella group. Greetings from South Africa
OMG, you are the first South African ever to comment on the channel! Welcome, welcome, it is great to have someone representing your country! You sure chose a good song to join in. ❤ I see Alan's comment right below yours (on my screen at least). Not to worry, I read and reply to all comments, and as long as it is possible, I will continue to do so. The volume is getting a bit more than I can handle, but I'll keep trying. Welkom weer, Daleen! Groete aan Suid-Afrika vanuit Serwië! ❤❤❤
It's my pleasure and Google helps a lot with translations! I was only hoping I got the right one, so many languages in South Africa, sounds like a very cool place for someone who loves hearing new languages (like myself). If you have some really well known local folk/traditional music to share, I'd love to hear it. I really enjoy hearing traditional songs from various places, but be picky and choosy and go with the best to show off. 😉
Scott (the blond guy) just scored a Grammy nomination for arranging. You’re wrong about his voice not being special though. He’s amazing. Watch their new live version of “Hallelujah” or better yet watch Scott’s solo “Mars” choir version. This group decides who sings which parts based on the needs of the song. No egos here.
It's only my introduction to Pentatonix, so I reacted to what I heard here at first listen. I've been told already that Scott can do so much more, so I will explore further...
lol you're so right about scott being the guy who brought them all together! though their arrangements are *usually* a group effort with their "secret 6th member", ben bram. mitch is my favorite member by far though, his voice control is unbelievable and his range is otherworldly. you should check out their cover of The Prayer! it's more recent, and you'll get to meet their "new" bass, matt, who replaced avi about 7 years ago.
It simply seemed that Scott's voice is the most ordinary and he kind of commands the scene, but seems I was wrong (I was told he's doing the 2nd bass), so there's more to this guy than is visible at first glance. Still, a reaction is always a first impression with 0 previous knowledge, so there's that... Sounds like these guys have been around for quite a while, so I'll have tons of material to listen to before I can choose a favorite. In this one, I think it was Avi or Kirstin (yes, names were dropped in comments). Something about the velvety bass sound that just worked for me and I really enjoyed her "medieval" addition to the final harmony. Not to worry, I will certainly listen to more, but forgive me if I travel through time back and forth based on my mood on the day of recording. 😊 I do hope you'll enjoy it.
Thank you for reminding me about this group, I've only heard them one other time and had forgotten how well they harmonize. Wow, 1.3K views in 16 hours!! where are you Angels? AJ only has 1.2K from three weeks ago (Back to Black), BTW Aleks , remind me to tell Keanu we found his brother 🤣. As always thank you for a great reaction video!🌼
Thank you so much! Glad I reminded you - they're really cool! 😉The views sometimes go up with time... No rush, they're there for a long time hopefully... I can't believe Avi reminds you of Keanu! 🤣🤣🤣 Then again, who I am to talk, Kevin reminds me of James Earl Jones. 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for watching each and every reaction - yes, I am aware and I do remember how wonderful some of you guys really are to me. ❤❤❤
Those beautiful bass notes you are hearing are the second soloist, guy with the beard and beanie Avi Kaplan. He has since left the group and after a 2 year break is now doing his own music. Definitely worth checking him out. Most start with his Change on the Rise his first release after leaving Pentatonix. He has since released a full album Floating on a Dream, and 2 EPs Live from Sunset Sound and Feel Alright. Subscribing for more Avi era Pentatonix and Avi solo music.
Welcome to the channel, Heather! Like you, I really loved Avi's tone. Not sure what to expect from Matt, but sounds like they had a long career with Avi as well, so a healthy mix of before and after might be interesting. I do plan to check out Avi's solo stuff as well, but that will be a bit longer down the line - first I need to immerse myself in PTX as I've just "met" them. 😊
Really enjoyed your reaction. That “little thrill” at the end was actually Mitch. I was impressed you even heard it because it’s one of my favorite parts and not many mention it. Please also react to my favorite acapella group called VoicePlay. Their bass singer is in a league of his own and they are so creative and captivating. Please trust me, a random stranger on the internet. 😂
I loved it, it added such beauty to the very end of the song. In my view it's hard to miss it, but that's just me... I will trust one of the many strangers on the Internet who said the same about VoicePlay. It will come up, just not right away. One new artist/group at a time or I'll get overwhelmed and totally randomized as a person. 😂
@ I completely understand 😅 I’ll go ahead and subscribe in anticipation of when you can get around to VoicePlay and Geoff Castelucci’s work. As far as recommendations to start, it’s tough because I don’t know what you like and they do it all. Rock, 80s, musical theater, Disney, Viking songs, Shanties, ballads and more… I would say just pick something that interests you and enjoy! ❤️
Thank you, YouToday! 😉 I'll dig something up to start with and we'll take it from there. I only do 3 videos per week. I have an actual job and I want to enjoy this, not do it for the clicks, likes and churns stuff out. Hope you're patient, but you'll also find some really good artists on here. So far, I haven't had a bad recommendation, so for now I'm trusting pretty cool strangers on the net who've dug me up. 😉
Thank you, Grace! I definitely plan to listen to quite a few more by PTX, but please feel free to rummage around until the next PTX reaction. So far I've been introduced to some really great artists and the discovery can go both ways. 😉
Just to be clear, it's not a ploy to get people to watch more of my videos, there really are some amazing artists out there, so even if you don't feel like watching reactions, just go for the original videos. There's always a link on each reaction or simply search them once you see something you might like. 😊
Where #Pentatonix came from: Kirstin, Mitch, and Scott all grew up in Arlington, Texas. All of them were involved with community musical theater as children, and Mitch met both Scott and Kirstin there (separately) when they were still pre-teens, and became friends with each of them. However, Scott and Kirstin didn't meet each other until they were fourteen and in the same high school class. All three were choir geeks (duh), and they quickly became best friends in high school. And if you're wondering what was in the water in Arlington in the early 1990s that three such remarkably talented people should all be born in such proximity, you aren't the only one. There was some kind of singing contest to meet the stars of _Glee,_ and the three of them wanted to enter, so they formed a trio which they named "The Trio." (I know; not very imaginative. They're somewhat better with that now.) They lost the contest, but they kept The Trio together anyway; they performed at school functions and occasionally on local television. Pentaholics still refer to these three as "the trio," and the trio is the heart of Pentatonix. Kirstin and Scott were a year ahead of Mitch; they graduated in 2010, when Mitch was still in eleventh grade, and both went away for their freshman year of college. Kirstin went to the University of Oklahoma (with a full ride scholarship!), and Scott went to the University of Southern Califonia. Scott is a very outgoing person, so he immediately began looking around for extracurricular activities where he could meet people and make new friends, and he found an award-winning amateur a cappella group named SoCal VoCals, which he joined. While there he met a former member named Ben Bram, who at the time was a coach on NBC's a cappella competition show named _"The Sing-Off."_ A cappella groups would audition for the show, and those that passed appeared throughout the season. There was a panel of three judges, all professional musicians, who would critique each performance. Along the way some groups would be eliminated, narrowing the field, and at the end of the season viewers would be invited to vote on a winner. The winning group would receive $200,000 and a recording contract with Epic, a minor subsidiary of Sony, the show's sponsor. Scott was intrigued. He thought The Trio could be competitive, and if they could get a recording contract they could have a career doing what they most loved, with the people they most loved. So he talked to Kirstin, who thought his idea had promise, and at the end of their first year of college the two of them headed back to Arlington to be there for Mitch's graduation and to talk with Mitch about Scott's idea. Meanwhile, back in Arlington Mitch had been having a very difficult year. His best friends weren't there, and as an out-of-the-closet young gay man with an unusually high voice he was being seriously bullied. And unfortunately, since the bullying was ostensibly for his voice he was quickly developing the notion that there was something wrong with his voice and that no one would want to hear him sing. So when Scott presented his idea Mitch was on board; it was a way to get away from the bullies. He had doubts about his ability to carry his weight in the group, because of the bullying, but he was willing to try, and if Scott and Kirstin said they could win, well, maybe they could. So with everyone agreed, Scott called Ben Bram to find out how to arrange for an audition, and this is where they met their first setback. _The Sing-Off_ had a size requirement; the minimum size allowed was five. The Trio needed two new members and a new name. They were stumped. Ben suggested that they'd profit from adding a rhythm section: a bass and a beatboxer, and he knew the perfect person to recommend for the bass, a guy named Avi Kaplan. They talked to Avi, and he was very interested, so that took care of the bass, but where to find the beatboxer? Ben didn't have any suggestions. So in desperation they typed "beatboxer" into a TH-cam search box and the first hit they got was a black guy playing a classical piece on the cello and beatboxing at the same time. And all of them said, "Wow! He's the one! How can we get in touch with him?" They were in luck. At the time TH-cam had something called TH-cam messages, which would allow private messages between members (now discontinued), so they sent Kevin a private message: "Hey! We really love your stuff, and we wonder if you'd be interested in flying across the country to join four strangers to audition for an a cappella competition show on television?" And Kevin messaged them back: "Normally I'd be there in a heart beat; I love a cappella and have been in a cappella groups before. But right now I'm studying for my final exams for my pre-med major from Yale." Oh. That sounded pretty definite; better keep looking. So they kept looking, and they found someone, but he was no Kevin Olusola. Oh well; you work with what you have. And two weeks later Kevin messaged them again: "Good news! I just graduated. If the gig's still open I can fly out." He arrived the day before their audition. Mitch had to skip his graduation ceremony to attend the audition. But even with just a day of rehearsal they still passed the audition; they were in. Oh, yes, the name. Pentatonix is named for the pentatonic scale, which has five (penta) tones just as Pentatonix has five (Penta) singers. In other words, it's a fancier way of saying they're now "The Quintet." 😂 Pentatonix appeared throughout season three of _The Sing-Off,_ and eventually won. All those performances are available on TH-cam and are well worth watching, preferably in order so you can see how they grew throughout the season. Some of them are as good as anything they've done since (which is saying a lot) and are only available in those old videos. (Note: If you decide to react to these, be sure and watch the versions that contain the show's introduction of Pentatonix just before the performance, and the judges' critiques of the performance, and any comments Pentatonix made backstage.) So, they'd won _The Sing-Off,_ complete with recording contract. Time to move to California permanently and begin recording. And a week later Epic reneged on the contract, saying that they didn't know how to market a cappella. But at this point Pentatonix weren't willing to give up; they *wanted* that career they'd been working toward. So they pooled their winnings and lived frugally. The four men shared two apartments, to cut down on expenses. They arranged music and rehearsed every day, and when they had a song ready they used their iPhones to record themselves anywhere they could find good acoustics, and sometimes in places with acoustics that were just okay. And they posted to TH-cam. Their fans from _The Sing-Off_ quickly found them there, and subscribed, and they began to get more views and more subscribers, and to pick up a few patrons. In fact, they were going viral. And Sony noticed, and approached them with an offer: Perhaps Pentatonix would like a recording contract with Madison Gate, another minor subsidiary? Hmmm. 🤔 Would they like a recording contract? Might have to think about that, for a second or two. Darn right they'd like a recording contract! And then came "Daft Punk Medley," and Pentatonix won their first Grammy. And again, Sony took notice, and approached Pentatonix: "We've been thinking about it and we believe you might find a better fit with our flagship label, RCA. Are you interested?" They've been with RCA ever since. They go on tours world wide and perform to sold-out venues. They put out at *least* one album a year, frequently more. One has gone Gold and one has gone Platinum twice. They have three Grammys and recently received a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. And they are the only a cappella band to have won so much as *one* Grammy, or to be represented on the Walk of Fame. The most important part of this story is the fact that Pentatonix began with The Trio, three best friends so close to one another that they might as well be family. And from the very beginning, everyone who has joined with them to form Pentatonix has been incorporated into that family-of-choice. As a family, Pentatonix takes care of all its members. One of the things this means is that everyone gets time in the spotlight. Pentatonix has no lead singer. Yes, some songs call for a lead, and when that happens Pentatonix chooses the member whose voice best suits the song. This is one way that everyone gets time in the spotlight, and it means that no one is burdened with having to always be the lead. And when songs don't require a lead, Pentatonix frequently has each member solo on one or more verses. The members of Pentatonix are able to set their egos aside because each of them is already receiving as much acclaim as any healthy ego could need. And that leaves them free to concentrate on taking care of both the people they love and the music they love. This focus on doing whatever is best for the music is, in my opinion, *the* thing that makes Pentatonix greater than the sum of its parts. And their focus on caring for one another is the reason we like them as people, not just as singers.
From what I can see in this song at least, I have to agree that what's really great about them is that though they work really well together they do give each one space and support to shine. I will certainly listen to more from these guys. 😊
Yes Avi Kaplan is the bass. Avi is a classically trained Basso Profundo with a nice 5 octave range and he is also an overtone singer with a very nice whistle range so his range is quite impressive. The other guy hitting bass notes is Scott Hoying the tall blonde. He is a baritone and they had to layer his bass sounds several over to make his bass sound full enough. The black man, is Kevin Olusola and he was hired as a beatboxer not a singer, but his singing voice is in the upper tenor range.
As long as they are the ones singing, and it sure looks like they are, it's totally fine to adjust volume. Don't we all do that when listening anyway? Well, perhaps not controlled by each individual channel, but still...
When Avi with the beard sings, Scott the blond guy sings bass. The black man is Kevin the beatboxer. Round hat guy is Mitch Grassi. Please react to them singing THE PRAYER
I got that Kevin is a beatboxer, he just "looked like" a bass rather than a tenor. 😂 They all did a great job with this one, so I will listen to more. 😊
Greetings from Scotland! Hey Aleks! When it comes to harmonizing, Pentatonix are among the best in the business! Harmonies, performed properly are so beautiful and very complex to get perfect. Love it.
Couldn't agree more, Peter! I really loved what they did here, giving this song a bit of joy as well, as the lyrics are not all that gentle on the soul. I loved it as well!
@@AleksReacts I have to add that this is not my favourite sort of music, being an atheist, but I can appreciate some skill in singing and these guys have SKILL! 😊😊
@@peterhowells7309 This is not at all a religious song imo, it just happens to have the word hallelujah in it... have a great evening Peter! Cheers to you and yours from Bavaria!
I love when new reactors discover this amazing a capella group! They brought a capella into the mainstream & have won so many awards! ❤️ And Christmas is the best time in the world to jump down this rabbit hole 🕳️! I'm subbing in order to take that journey with you! ❤️
Thank you so much, Shilohaura! Not sure if that's your real name, but if it is, it sounds really cool. 😊 I always liked a cappella performances, as they are usually the most pure, relying only on the instrument we're born with. So, if you're wondering, yes, I will take this journey - loved this rendition of Hallelujah! ❤❤❤
This was recorded in the studio for release on their 2016 Christmas album, "A Pentatonix Christmas," so in the official video they're lip-synching to the music they've already recorded. Which, in the case of #Pentatonix, means that they're actually singing the song, so they're in proper time and completely synchronized with each other and all their movements are genuine. But the audio track is from the studio recording. This was shot in the Mojave desert outside of Barstow, California. Because it went with a song on that year's Christmas album, they were all dressed in warm winter coats, even though they were filming it in the summer and the temperature was around 98° Fahrenheit (36.667° Celsius), so they were all miserably hot. Kirstin had injured her foot or ankle and was unable to walk with them; it was as much as she could do to stand in one spot while the men walked up behind her. And they were off-road and afraid that they wouldn't be able to find their way out in the dark, but they really wanted the video to include Mitch's hat eclipsing the setting sun. So they needed to do it as quickly as possible and then leave immediately, which is exactly what they did, and they were VERY relieved to be putting it behind them. And yes, they did manage to make it out before full darkness fell, just barely.
The things artists go through to record a song... I don't think I'd put up with 36 C in these coats, but kudos to them for surviving it. Though the feel might be a bit less hot in a desert than it is here in Belgrade (a city with two rivers and 95% or higher humidity in the summer). This was an interesting story - thanks for sharing it. 😊
@AleksReacts They do seem to have learned something from the experience; nowadays they tend to rely more on sets to do the work of implying that it's winter. For example, that gorgeous snowy forest in "The Prayer" is an indoor set, and for the most part Pentatonix didn't bother with winter clothing when filming it.
Thanks for the reaction. You found Pentatonix just in time as they have an amazing body of Christmas music that you can react to. They are all amazing singers and great people. Check out more of their music before you judge too quickly.
Thank you so much, Ann! Sounds like you're new to the channel, so a big welcome to you. 😊 You'll soon find out that I always say what's on my mind, so don't worry - Scott is not judged badly, it was just interesting to me how different he is from the others in terms of talent shown here. I've been given a lot more information since, and I will certainly check out many more performances by this group. I actually loved this one, regardless of a few notes given that may sound "harsh". Also, Christmas in my country is on Jan. 7th, so there's actually more time for me in both December and January to include some Christmas music from various artists I have not yet listened to. I do hope you'll enjoy the journey. ❤
Subscribed for more Pentatonix (PTX) and a cappella in general. My personal favorite is Kirstie. Her voice is special and very versatile. She even had the main female lead in Kinky Boots on Broadway for a bit. I can tell you was not overly impressed by Scott, but I’m sure he will grow on you. Just today, he has been nominated for a Grammy for his original, Rose Without The Thorns. Recommend PTX’s version of The Prayer.
Welcome, DF! It's only my first time hearing them, so I'll give Scott some time to possibly change my mind. Then again, it might just be the color of his voice that doesn't attract me. Nevertheless, all together PTX have impressed me with this cover, so I do want to hear more. I've been surprised before, it might happen again with Scott. 😊
Great choice for your first Pentatonix song. They are the best a cappella group I’ve ever heard, and their catalog of songs goes all over the place. I don’t think you can go wrong on anything you choose, but a couple of my favorites are the Simon and Garfunkel classic, Sound of Silence-and then there is a spectacular cover of John Lennon’s Imagine. There have been some personnel changes over the years with Pentatonix, but their arrangements and their harmonies are immaculate. It’s a group where each member can take the lead and bring his or her own flavor to the song. (The lead singer you saw start this song is Scott. He opened and did a duet with Angelina at her Los Angeles concert last month)
Well, hello there, dear AJ fan! It's been a while since your last comment and I'm glad I stumbled upon another favorite of yours.😊 I'm aware it might be Scott's fault for singing with AJ, but more music is always a good thing! You're one of many suggesting Sound of Silence and Imagine, so I'm sure they'll come up relatively soon. Just a heads up, the AJ podcast with WIAWB is tomorrow with 4 reactions to Angelina's songs. I'll be around at the time of its premiere, hope to chat with you there too. ❤ Btw, I'd like to hear that duet of Scott and AJ, is there a link you can share?
@@AleksReactsHi Aleks. Here’s the link to that: th-cam.com/video/OOgrfpuHZP8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=cNiJeCKq1M_SWnAx Like almost all of the Angelina concert performances, this is a fan made video, and the audio quality is not good. But there’s a really great video of AJ singing All of Me when she was 13(?), I think. She gives the beautiful John Legend version a run for its money. Here’s that link for a future AJ review: th-cam.com/video/oEeEurjqdWg/w-d-xo.htmlsi=wwojZdlfxFDUm1ni
Hello Alexs and greetings from Wyoming! (yes it does exist haha!) I absolutely love finding new reactors to PTX. I've read the comments so I won't go over the basics again, but one thing I would love to add is, Pentatonix (in my humble opinion as an amateur instrumentalist) are the masters of a true 5 part harmony! Their use of traditional and dissonant chords along with beautiful harmonics are truly a delight to hear. As I'm sure you've read by now, Kevin has an amazing tenor voice, and when he's not beatboxing, his beautiful tone blends flawlessly with the others. Two of my absolute favorite songs that they have covered that show this are "Imagine" and "Mad World". Welcome to the Pentatonix rabbit hole! It's a roller coaster ride, and I guarantee you'll love every twist and turn 😁😎 Edit to add..... I love Kirstin's voice, too! If you really want to see her shine, check out a collaboration they did with Todrick Hall called "The Wizard of Ahhhhs". Beautiful vocals and so much fun to watch!!
So, you say you're from Narnia! I see. 😂 Jokes aside, not only do I know it exists, I know where Wyoming is and I do believe you're the first from your state on my channel (or at least the first one to say so). So, welcome, my dear! ❤ It's always interesting to read comments from musicians, as you guys bring some perspective that we laymen do not think of actively. Thank you so much for that! All the suggestions are written down and it's your suggestions that often inspire my future reactions, so thanks for adding to the list. It's already a huge list, but we have time. Hope you'll enjoy some good music with me, including more PTX reactions. Greetings to you and the often overlooked state of Wyoming! ❤❤❤
Thank you for this review. The way you understood right away, from their name that their are 5 in the group. I would say, don't judge Mitch too quickly, he is an incredible singer. They have created so many covers and many originals, all are amazing. I would enjoy hearing what your excellent hearing tells you
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! 😊 Well, my rather pathetic knowledge of some rudimentary Latin helped with understanding the name. I believe you mean Scott, rather than Mitch, but I've been informed that I should hear more before I "pass my judgement" on him, which is fair. This was really my first reaction, and I tend to say what's on my mind. Doesn't mean I'm adamant about it. 😊 In some cases, it might also just be personal taste or perhaps that I simply need to hear more. Either way, I'm sure willing to hear more from all of them.
I just saw your reaction to the sound of silence and came here, to listen your reaction to their most famous song, but they have so many song, covers and originals, All of them are very good, everyone brings something to the group, one of the things that I like more about them, is that they have a female voice, because with her and Mitch you could do so many things, Scot the baritone has a lot of range could do the bass when the base is singing (Matt or Avi), Kevin is great the beatboxer, and great cellist, sometimes they used this, in their music, I would recommend, Shallow and Say Something to hear this, other would tell you other songs, and would be there to watch your reactions, I subscribe to your channel
I am glad you enjoyed the first one enough to check out another one. Welcome to the channel! ❤ You're right, so many recommendations came along that right now I have 139 requests for PTX. I also agree with you that each one of them brings something to the group and the combination of their voices in these well composed arrangements is just perfect. Definitely plan to see quite a few more.
Good catch. The first lead, tall blonde guy Scott, is nominally a baritone with a good high range into tenor and some bass coverage. Scott has a lot of textures he can produce. With a wide range from bass to tenor and all the pop textures, he is an incredibly valuable utility player for this a capella group. I also did not favor Scott early on, but as he has provided critical sections on many songs, I have come to appreciate him much more, especially during the cold opens of difficult songs. His opening part in Sound Of Silence has just the right amount of gravelly grit and gets the tone set for the rest. His one lead section in Bohemian Rhapsody is critical and could not have been done by the others. He does a lot of the leads in Radioactive and has just the right pop tone to make it work. It's easy to overlook how much he contributes until you understand how they are making each song work in a vocal only style. He is often the glue that makes it possible. Avi with the beard is the main bass with a decent low tenor range also. So Scott covers bass during Avi's lead and does quite a good job. Kevin, the black guy, is using body percussion and beatboxing by mouth. Mitch's very high tenor is gorgeously smooth and balanced. Kirstin's powerful mezzo has excellent power and a sweet honey-like tone/vibrato. Her strong, clean, high belt is on par with the best Disney princess singers. She had been more subdued on previous songs, but she had recently been in a broadway play, Kinky Boots, which helped her let loose and gain some needed confidence on her lead parts.
Thank you, Martin! It's only my first impression of Scott, but like you many have pointed out that Scott has more to offer than what's easily visible here. I've added your suggestions to my list as I'd actually like to hear more. There has to be more to him, if he's not the arrangement guy nor a formal leader of the group. On all the others, your description is very much aligned with what I've heard here and especially thanks for confirming my assumptions on how Kevin is creating the sounds in this song. Based on this song alone and the list of songs I have so far (as I know most of them), it sounds like they take on some pretty difficult melodies and if they add to the arrangements also, this will be a fun journey to take. So, take it I will. Thank you once again! ❤
Scot the one you were not impressed with, opened for Angelina Jordon in her last concert at the Alex theater in Los Angeles on 20th September this year and they also did a duet singing John Legends all of me which was written by Toby Gad who played the piano for them
You're the second person to mention that duet. I should probably include that in my future reactions, especially since I have heard more about Scott in the meantime (like him doing the 2nd bass here, a bit of a surprise). I've only just started listening to PTX, we'll see how it goes from here. 😊
Kevin (the beat boxer) when performing this live, has special mics on this chest and a mic'ed stomp plate on the stage to produce those stomp and slap sounds. Also Kevin's voice range is really high...in the high tenor range...he doesn't sing often but when he does it surprises 1st timers cuz they assume his voice is at least a baritone.
Here I was thinking he was the bass. 🤣 It's just his look is so reminiscent to me of a young version of James Earl Jones that I expected that voice too. They don't look alike really, just something about his smile and facial expressions that I always liked when watching Mr. Jones.
@AleksReacts oh Kevin is a true treasure for sure...wait til you see him cello-box...watch Radioactive or Say Something for that. To hear him sing try Mary Did You Know, Imagine or Little Drummer Boy. Also you may want to listen to some of Avi's solo stuff...pure Americana sound...for his low stuff try Change on the Rise or Chains. With Change on the Rise all the background sounds and voices are him except the organ at the bridge and a tambourine. So sorry didn't mean to overshare....but one thing to listen out in some PTX songs...Avi's overtone....most think its Kevin doing it somehow.
All jotted down - thank you! I got a year's worth of material for PTX reactions in one day, but at least I have choices. Clearly they all have a talent, so the more the merrier. 😉
Hey, I've seen that with Dears, Angels, Lara's fans, Renegades, etc. It's only tough the first time around simply to cover all the comments, but it really pays off in terms of very interesting stuff I get to hear. Have a good one and thanks again! 😉
Nice reaction, Aleks. I really like listening to PTX of course, as they are AMAZINGLY good. But MY a capella heart still lies with Home Free. I have yet to hear anything from them that doesn't leave a solid impression on me. Maybe you'll come around to them at some point 🙂 But I have thoroughly enjoyed reading through the comments from all the Pentaholics, as they have provided me with a lot of new insight. And with that, maybe also new perspective. I'll try to be there for the live tonight. Hopefully I'll see you there. Much love from Norway ♥♥♥♥♥
Thank you, Shakster! I really loved this rendition of Hallelujah, and you're not the only one to mention Home Free. So, I'll listen to them soon as I do enjoy a good a capella performance. Hope to see you tonight as I will be there for the premiere, but if not, you can always check it out later. I'd really love to hear your opinion. Love ❤️❤️❤️
Welcome, Dazzie! There will be more PTX for sure. I'm intrigued by them. Still, feel free to dig a little, some really cool artists to find on here. Not a single suggestion so far was boring or even ordinary. 😉
For some reason I have always liked their earlier renditions more back when they were first starting out and getting recognition, they were more fun...nowdays they are more serious...
I really LOVED this one, but not sure if it's an earlier one (it says 8 years ago) or if there are some even older renditions. Btw, check out the channel this Sunday, I think you'll like the artist that was suggested to me. Her name is Raye and the first song that was suggested to me is just insane. I think you might like her a lot.
@@AleksReacts hehe, I'm kind of glad to hear that, nice you gave it away... so I will be less nervous on Sunday - of course, obviously there never was a reason to be nervous, I didn't find a single reaction of someone not being blown away, but you never know, and at one point you had said you might not like her... I'm very excited all the same to finally see your first reaction to my girl... Can't wait, suppose you did Oscar Winning Tears? Though the description "just insane" matches many of her performances, she just oozes talent... so already: Thanks a lot for finally giving in to my pledge... have a great evening and enjoy it! Peace and love from BavaRAYEa
@@AleksReacts P.S.: Great day for me, not only am I very much looking forward to Sunday, also I just learned RAYE has been nominated for two GRAMMY's in 2025...
I was worried I might not like her, as it does happen, and you care so much for her and I care a lot for you. But, here's one thing not to be so nervous - it would never be published if I didn't like her. I'd just tell you it's not gonna happen. So, enjoy with me tomorrow, kiddo! ❤❤❤
Frank Zappa - It Can't Happen Here th-cam.com/video/svdrAHn_LGo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=l7xAnqQxPS5wa-vi for your private pleasure, I haven't listened to this in a million years, but your comment triggered it and I was laughing so hard when playing it again in the context of your comment...peace out
Congralations on knowing the term "Counter-tenor". Most people don't know what to call it. You are in for some more suprises, as most if not all members have at least a 5 octave range, some have more, this way they can cover any part at any time. I won't waste your time as I know others have commented on other things. I will also say I have subed for more PTX. I do want to say that PTX is the Premier A accepella group in the world. They have paved the way for all the others. Nobody else can match PTX. I will also mention that you had some really good guesses, as far as roles and how things work, more than most reactors. But as others have pointed out (I haven't looked but I know the Pentaholics), you were mistaken on some things, but that's OK since it was your first time, you'll see and hear it in other video's.
LOL! That would be Dimash's fault. I heard him a couple of months ago and his fans explained it. When I heard Mitch, it seemed to me that we have another one out there. 😊 Makes sense that I would make mistakes and I'm very glad that you're understanding about it. Some people are not that forgiving, but thankfully they're not on this channel. 🤣 I can tell you that I do plan to hear more. There've been a few warning about copyright takedowns, but I'll give it a try and see how it goes. It might just mean that we'll have to wait a bit longer or figure our a different way of delivery, but I'll do my best and hopefully we'll get lucky. Thank you so much on your kind comment! Hopefully, we'll have a lot more songs to enjoy together. ❤
@@AleksReacts This is a script I have saved for this very situation. Although they have changed labels since the first of the year, so we'll see how it goes from here, I hope it gets better for reactors. After all that is how they became so famous, reactors had a lot to do with that, so I can't understand why the label wanted to block the reactors. Now as you have found out their record company is stupid when it comes to copyright issues. But most reactors I have heard from (about 25-30 or so) have found they copyright the video more than the audio, so if you will make the video more transparent, or blacked out and place some text over it (your name, Pentatonix, “covered with text for copyright”, a logo just anything), and then pause now and then to talk, it will help to keep from getting blocked. With their label and YT nothing is guaranteed, but from what the other reactors have said, this things create an 80%-90% improvement, at least you meet all the written rules, unless the reviewer is having a bad day.
Thank you kindly for that! However, in my experience so far, blurs or text have done nothing much and too many pauses unless they come naturally would only ruin the reaction and make it rehearsed or planned. That's just not me... Pauses sometimes happen because I just need them, but that IS natural and real. If at some point I HAVE to, I'll give it a try... One way or another I'll find a way to keep listening and reacting to Pentatonix and to be able to post those reactions. So far, I really only needed patience... Hopefully, that's all that will be needed in the future and maybe their record company will figure out on their own that free marketing is good marketing. No rush, nothing is entirely impossible. 😉
🇨🇦 I am Bias, but Leonard Cohen being Canadian and my favourite version of this song is by K.D.Lang from the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, it makes me so happy to see so many wonderful versions created by good artists over the years ! 🇨🇦
Oh Bruce, I totally forgot about K.D. Lang. I think I only heard a single hit of hers about 30 years ago. I'll give her version a listen, it's been so long I forgot what her voice sounds like. As for Leonard Cohen, I get depressed when I listen to him, but he sure made a song the world loves to re-create. My favorite (partly) Canadian singer at this point I have to say is Lara, unless there is someone else who's amazing enough you could recommend who's close to her talent and beauty (inside and out).
You know, you've convinced me. I just went ahead and added it to list. It would be the first time I'm hearing K.D.Lang sing that song and it has been ages since I heard her at all... At worst, I'll remember to hear it on my own. 😉
@ Because we are talking about performances at Olympic games, this here is also legendary John Farnham and Olivia Newton John - Dare to Dream - Sydney Olympics 2000 th-cam.com/video/TUqJ13Nfcwo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=H-OS4amT8utqET8e
thank you for this wonderful reaction. You caught several things I had overlooked. I’ve followed PTX since the Sing Off in 2011 to today and Avi solo after his departure in Sept 2017. I have subscribed and will review other artists on your channel. Suggest PTX Sound of Silence for Matt’s range and beautiful baritone. Listen to Avi’s 7 Layer Session recording of All Is Well to hear his rich dark baritone off mic with natural reverb. again thank you
Thank you so much, Jan and a warm welcome to you for such a sweet and thoughtful comment! I'm sure there are quite a few things I overlooked, that's the beauty of good music - we all hear different things. 😊 Sound of Silence has been suggested so many times that it's highly likely I'll listen to that next. As I enjoyed Avi's voice, I do plan to hear his solo stuff, but that's a bit longer down the road. One at a time feels natural, so PTX have an advantage - I already heard something by them. Please do check out other artists, many amazing ones I've been introduced to and lately it seems some people have found artists they now like through my channel - the whole purpose of reactions in a way, right? Thank you as well, once again! ❤❤❤
Hope you have a year, because this rabbit hole is long! Covers that they do become upgrades! They just released a new live version of Hallelujah. Sometimes they use instruments. Kiss from a Rose, is a good one also!
I hope I have 50+ years to keep doing this. I'm only almost half way to 100 years of age. 😂 I doubt I'll be reaction to versions of songs by the same group, as there are so many songs yet to hear, but Kiss from a Rose will happen. 😊 Thank you!
Each of these five sing lead on different songs. You will be impressed as you discover each of them and the incredible range and ability of each. Avi Kaplan, the deep bass, left the group in 2017. Pentatonix brought in a new fifth member who is also extremely talented. So Pentatonix continued to make incredible music, and Avi started a solo career. Avi has become my favorite singer. Whether you react or not, I suggest you check out Avi's solo music. Here's one of my favorites: th-cam.com/video/sNjbAAjF4Tg/w-d-xo.htmlsi=H9LqejOjPwrQXReE
@rfiliagaful just gave me a great breakdown of who to look out for in each of the songs he suggested, so that ought to help. Avi impressed me here, so I will be sure to listen to his solo music as well. I won't promise reactions, as I do not want to disappoint and currently I do want to learn more about the group, but I am writing it down on my list of 1,200+ suggestions. 😉
And now, sweet person, continue to have your spirit enthralled by listening to their covers: Imagine (John Lennon), The Prayer, Amazing Grace ... and PLEASE share your reaction with us. You are wonderful and we Pentaholics love good REACTORS such as yourself!
@@AleksReacts BTW, their songs that seem religious are incredible works of art (The Prayer, Amazing Grace, Mary Did You Know etc). With your ear and temperament, your reaction will be delicious! And THANK YOU!!
Thank you so much for the compliments! I'm rather non-religious, but that doesn't mean I can't hear a religious song and appreciate the musicality of it. 😊
Oh wow, your first time ever Pentatonix... this will be interesting, let's see what you think... They're fabulous, aren't they? Have you reacted to Home Free yet? Another really exceptional a capella group... Peace and love from Bavaria, have a nice evening!
Hello, my dear Bavarian friend! Glad to hear we both enjoyed this one by Pentatonix, and I will add Home Free at some point, as I'm told they also sing a cappella, which I really like. Some pretty cool news for you btw. Raye is up next this Sunday and I took your advice fully (Genesis and live). We'll have a lot more fun together, Kiddo. 😉 Sharky sure knew who to introduce to each other. Love to you and Bavaria! ❤❤❤
@@AleksReacts O wow, piccolinissima, I knew you'd be uploading your first time ever RAYE reaction tomorrow, as I had read your recommendation to someone else in your answer to their comment, but I said to Sharkey I suppose it's going to be Oscar Winning Tears live at Royal Albert Hall... To hear you really took a deep dive and did Genesis both the MV and a live has me even more excited for tomorrow. I can't even imagine what an impression that would leave, as I had known her before Genesis was released, had heard a snippet she had sneaked into her medley at the Brit Awards, and the Montreux live version came out later (or which one did I recommend?), was it the whole song, but live, or the live recording session of Genesis part iii... well, you may leave a few surprises for tomorrow, no need to answer, just wondering... Anyway I was really happy to see you even started promoting your reaction to her before you uploaded it, seems you don't regret having listened to this BavaRAYEan Halien Angel... Lots of love right back to you, will go out in the garden now to calm down... Have a nice evening, see you tomorrow! Kiddodo
Oh, no, I could not possibly do both the MV and the live (it would likely be blocked), but I went with the live, as you said that you'd usually suggest the MV, but in this case you thought live would be even better. I did watch the MV later on, so I'll tell you what I thought about it once the reaction to the live is published. Let's talk more Raye once it's out (finally). At least now I won't be talking "blind and deaf" and we'll have another mutual topic to cover. ❤❤❤
My cheeks started to burn, as I got Avi slapped, then Kristin slapped and finally Mitch slapped. I wish they'd find a different word for it. This hurts. 😂😂😂
After #Pentatonix won _The Sing-Off,_ one of the first things they did with their prize money was to hire Ben Bram to be their producer and arranger. No matter how tight money was, they always hung onto Ben; pentaholics sometimes refer to Ben as "the sixth member of Pentatonix." When arranging a cover song, Ben gets the first pass at it, which is generally pretty close to the final arrangement. But each singer knows their own voice best, and each singer tends to have ideas along the lines of "well, if so-and-so were to do thus-and-such, then I could..." so all of them weigh in on the final arrangement. As for their original music, Kevin is almost always listed as co-composer; he appears to have the best theoretical understanding of music (I'm hypothesizing, not stating a known fact), which makes him extremely good at taking someone else's idea and providing whatever minor tweaks are needed to bring it together. Two of PTX's Grammys are for arrangements; Ben Bram was a co-winner on both those Grammys.
I am glad that I got that bit wrong, i.e. I thought Scott was the one doing the arrangements alone, but it's great that everyone's input is taken into account. 😊
@@AleksReacts To see their magic in action, watch the Making of Evergreen: th-cam.com/video/M60SKKkQLqo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=JPrFEg5T2VdpJaPu And please be sure to tape your reaction to ALL Pentatonix songs and, if you do, we'll be there right along with you. Your reactions are so AUTHENTIC and SWEET!
Ah, to be completely truthful "making of" or interviews or background stories never happen on my channel. I like to see what the artists meant for me to see - their finished work. But I can and will listen to Evergreen, though. 😉
@@AleksReacts Oh! I supplied 'making of' because you specifically said that you wished to know HOW they put this all together with the arrangement. Regardless, I love your knowledgeable and intuitive reactions. I appreciate you!
Oh, sorry, I wasn't clear. I was happy guessing, and it was mostly Scott that was my focus (incorrectly so). Many fans explain what I am interested in (and more), so I'm good. Apologies for the misunderstanding and thanks for trying to help out! The appreciation is mutual, especially with the wonderful attitude you have. ❤❤❤
threeof f them met in JR High choir a music teacher that went to heaven she just retired a few years ago fell apart as a teacher She was a special person in their music. Once in a life time experience
Hi David! I'm afraid some of your comment got a bit jumbled or cut by accident. My understanding is that there's a song they did with their teacher you think would be interesting to hear. Could you please let me know what it is?
❤❤❤ NEW SUBSCRIBER! ❤❤❤ PLEASE DO MORE OF THEM!! ❤️❤️❤️ I HIGHLY RECOMMEND "MY HEART WITH YOU" live from the Hollywood Bowl & "SILENT NIGHT" the live version where they're performing in the vestibule of a very large Church. It is from about 10 or so years ago. Neither of these performances have any beat box & are 5 PART HARMONY thru out... ❤❤❤ ENNNNNNNJJJOYYYYYYY!! 🥰🥰🥰
You're very welcome to the channel! ❤❤❤ I sure do want to hear more from these guys! I loved the arrangement here, along with the voices. Since you're new, I have a long list, but each and every suggestion is added to it, so more to come. Hope you'll enjoy with me. 🥰🥰🥰
Subscribed. If you decide to continue down this rabbit hole you can expect a *lot* of new subscriptions; #Pentatonix fans are enthusiastic about reaction videos to anything our favorite band puts out. Some useful terminology: • pentaholic = Pentatonix fan • PTX = abbreviation for Pentatonix - extremely useful in searches • the trio = Kirstin, Mitch, and Scott • Mitch slap = what you get the first time you realize how incredible Mitch's voice is. • Avi-lanche = like a Mitch slap, except with Avi instead of Mitch. • KO = like a Mitch slap or Avi-lanche, except with Kevin Olusola. • Matt attack = like a Mitch slap, Avi-lanche, or KO, except with Matt. • Great Scott! (or ButterScott) = like a Mitch slap, Avi-lanche, KO, or Matt attack, except with Scott. • Unfortunately, we haven't been able to come up with a good name for what Kirstin does to us. 😔 (Note: You never become immune to Mitch slaps, Avi-lanches, KOs, Matt attacks, Great Scotts, or the similar things that Kirstin does. They always have the ability to surprise us.) You can't go wrong listening to anything Pentatonix has released; it's all gorgeous. But all pentaholics have our own personal favorites that we like to recommend. These are some of my favorites: • "Hallelujah" ( a recent live performance, with Matt and a new arrangement: th-cam.com/video/Se0BmDdZuX0/w-d-xo.html ) • "Imagine" (the official video) • "The Prayer" • "Bohemian Rhapsody" (the official video) • "Sound of Silence" • "Run To You" (an original, written by Avi and Kevin) • "Happy Now" (another original) • "Daft Punk Medley" (their first Grammy winner) • "O Come All Ye Faithful" • "O Holy Night" (they did a totally new recording for their 2023 Christmas album; you can find the official video here: th-cam.com/video/ReJAU2mXm8w/w-d-xo.htmlsi=upj2Q3vLqigVEtgm ) • "Pure Imagination / Christmas Time is Here" (preferably the live Vevo recording) • "Kiss From a Rose" (preferably the live Vevo recording - both of the Vevo recordings are available on TH-cam) • "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" • "The Lucky Ones" (an original, written by Scott) • "Thank You" (an original, written by Scott and his then fiancé, now husband, Mark Manio Hoying, shortly after the end of COVID lockdown, about how much easier it was to get through that time because they were together) • "The Kevin Show/Kevin's Fifth." This is a live feed from a concert they gave in Owensboro, Kentucky, Kevin's home town: th-cam.com/video/DbCasvcNx78/w-d-xo.html and this is the very special performance of "Kevin's Fifth" (without "The Kevin Show") from Kevin's birthday in 2022: th-cam.com/video/7m0g7xThIWs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=99F7iG5qkdgPCm43 Additionally, *if* you're familiar with _"The Wizard Of Oz"_ (the 1939 movie starring Judy Garland), I recommend "Todrick Hall - The Wizard of Ahhhs (ft. Pentatonix)": th-cam.com/video/QkVeKb2igrg/w-d-xo.html If you've never seen the movie it won't make sense, so take care of that first. One advantage to reacting to "The Wizard of Ahhhs" is that you won't need to obscure the video to avoid copyright claims. Most of Pentatonix's copyrights are owned by their publisher, RCA, and RCA is notorious for getting reaction videos taken down over copyright issues, but the copyrights for "The Wizard of Ahhhs" are owned by Todrick Hall, and Todrick seems to be more interested in good publicity than in stomping on innocent reactors. (I regret to say that Todrick has gotten a lot of bad publicity in recent years, for very good reasons; he appears to be something of a jerk. But making copyright claims against other TH-camrs isn't one of his vices.)
Goodness, that was a lot, but you provided a lot of material to look into. All jotted down on my end, of course. Thank you for that, as well as for sharing the story of the group for all who'd like to learn more. 😊
MORE acapella magic? Try these groups: Home Free and Voiceplay. Each also has 5 members and many of those members do solo work. Voiceplay's Jeff Castellucci' s bass voice is earth-shaking. Listen to his 16 Tonnes cover! BTW - He does most of his own back-up singing as well. His range is about 5 full octaves!
You're the first one to give me a song to react to by Home Free and one I actually kinda know... I'll have to dig up the original before I hear them, but I am interested. Thank you again! 😉
@@AleksReactsThe song 16 Tons recommendation is actually by VoicePlay’s bass singer Geoff Castelucci. And yes, he has a 5 octave range and does all of the singing on his channel. He clones himself or you might just hear it. Sometimes he’s in costume. Geoff and VoicePlay are the theater kids of acapella and they are a lot of fun. ❤
Thank you for helping me out with that. I totally wrote it down for Home Free. 😂 I'll make sure to check out both a cappella groups, I just enjoy voices, so a cappella is my kind of performance anyway. ❤
@ Yes, ma’am!! I love acapella so much. Geoff’s solo work is not acapella because he produces his own backing music and plays piano. But it’s also very enjoyable! 😄
So funny you weren't impressed with the 1st singer.. he, over time, has proven to have the most versatile voice of them all. He was the second bass singer you heard. He was a soft, and loud, and growly, and buttery voice, and country voice depending on the song. Check out "Oh Holy Night" next. You will hear ALL of his voice tones in the same song.. plus it is a Christmas song and their best, I think. You also will be greatly impressed with Kirsten and the new bass Matt. Thanks for your thoughtful reaction!
Thank you so much for laughing with me rather than at me! In this one, Scott sounded a bit too nasal to me, but I've since been informed that his is the 2nd bass too, so seems I'm yet to get to know this guy. Kirsten already impressed me, almost everything she sang was done to perfection and I love her tone of voice. The same goes for Avi, so I'm a bit apprehensive about this Matt guy. I just heard them for the first time and the voice I loved the most is no longer with them. Dang it. Thank you for suggesting a Christmas song - I have ample time to do those as worldwide Christmas is mostly celebrated on Dec. 25th, while we celebrate ours on Jan. 7th. You've just given me the 2nd song to include within that period. 😉 This should be fun. 🥰
Back in the day, before 2017, the bass for Pentatonix was Avi Kaplan. Personally (and I know Kaplan’s fans may not agree), I actually prefer the bass from another a cappella band, Voiceplay : the fabulous Geoff Castellucci (check out his solos : Misty Mountains Cold, House of the Rising Sun, Ain't No Sunshine). Voiceplay’s music videos (The Dragonborn Comes Skyrim) are often quite crazy and funny, whereas Pentatonix tends to be more “classical.” Pentatonix, Voiceplay and Home free bands are certainly of equal caliber (except for their respective fans, of course). As a jazz lover, I’d also mention The Real Group, the charming jazz a cappella band (Pass Me the Jazz). And as a Frenchman, I must bring up The Swingle Singers, who began their journey in France 60 years ago thanks to the initiative of the sister of the great composer Michel Legrand ; the band is now British (watch their stunning video Libertango). All that said, in terms of harmony-and while they aren’t a cappella at all-the true kings of harmony, in my humble opinion, remain the Korean band Forestella (Scarborough Fair, Hijo de la Luna, If I Leave…). But, that's another story...
@@sandrinamuller3729 Ooooops ! Guilty. Corrected. Thank you. I’m too focused on the East, and I’m gradually losing touch with Western singers (except for a few like Geoff).
@continentzero7572 Well, this is my first a cappella reaction, but you've sure given me quite a lot of material to look into. Thank you so much, especially for including groups coming from varied locations around the world and for including covers of songs that I love (being a big fan of both Tolkien and some Skyrim dragons). Many of your suggestions should be quite a lot of fun 😊 @sandrinamuller3729 Thanks for the correction. Mr. Zero is extremely musically knowledgeable, but we're all human, so help with an error or two is appreciated. 😉
Don't know if I will react to it. I tend not to do reactions to versions of the performances by the same artist/group, as there are so many I'm yet to hear. However, I will be sure to listen to it on my own. I wonder what it sounds like with a new singer who I understand replaced Avi. I should say that I really enjoyed Avi's tone, as well as Kirstin's rendition of this, so not sure if this can be done any better. We'll see, one never knows...
@@AleksReacts This group including Avi did a live version as well on a Christmas special. Avi is and will always be my favorite. Do yourself a favor and watch on your own. It's divine. Here is the link: th-cam.com/video/haFHrfmfHbc/w-d-xo.html I really enjoyed this reaction and how you were able to pick so much at first listen. Subscribed!!!!! Looking forward especially to more Avi (solo career) and Pentatonix! btw, on the live that I sent, you will see another thing you were right on about, the gentleman who does the percussion is a beatboxer and he does indeed enhance his performance verbally.
Oh, thank you so much, Vicki and welcome to the channel! I'm glad there are more people who really loved Avi's voice like me. I mean, they are all great, but his voice was sooo soothing... I can certainly promise more Pentatonix for now. Once I discover someone, I tend to dig deeper for a while and then move on to someone new. So Avi alone might wait a bit longer, but I'll get to him as well. Mostly because I love his tone. Also, I do hope you'll enjoy the channel. One thing I'm most proud of is that I think this is the best community of music lovers I've ever had the privilege to encounter. Wonderful people, very open and sweet, each and every one!
Kirsty Maldonado is a mezzo-soprano (listen to their song What About Love for her highest note...that I know of anyway). The guy you kinda poo-poo'd is Scott Hoying. He is responsible for the group existing and for their name. Beard man is Avi Kaplan. He is only one to leave the group. He left on good terms and was replaced by another fabulous bass named Matt Sallee.
Well, not sure if it's total poo-pooing to say the man's a leader, but I was kinda hard on his voical abilities. It is a reaction and that was my first reaction to him. No point in lying or hiding it. Seems like there's more to the guy, so we'll see. I do want to hear more from all of them (new and old basses). It should be fun. 😉
I'm sure you know that this is recorded in the studio and then they either sing it while shooting the video but you just don't hear it cuz it seems to the studio or they're just lip syncing but Kevin the beatboxer in the studio has a drum pad that's why the drums come through all the time. The other two really good acapella groups, in my opinion Pentatonix the top, they're the ones who broke the ceiling on what acapella could be. They have three Grammys and a star on the Hollywood Walk of fame. Listen to Home Free and voice play. Both are incredible groups and each has their own style of Beatboxing. I don't know how much Kevin is doing vocally on this song they did just release a live version but with Matt there not Avi cuz Avi left in 2017. Check out his solo career very very good. The beatboxers are considered the percussions and the bass is covering the bass line
You're right, as I don't believe the singing would work all that well in the desert with no microphones anywhere near. 🤣 I do not mind, as long as they're the ones actually singing in the studio and sure sounds like they are not autotuned or anything... The one thing I'm very sorry to hear is that Avi left them years ago and I've only just found them. I really liked the velvety sound of his voice.
@@AleksReacts , no, they don't use autotune, but do use things like reverb and I think, melodyne. They're not into heavily relying on studio "help" or tricks, since they tour often and pride themselves on doing most of their songs live onstage or as they've been doing recently, in a special recording room, live. As to the drum pad, yes...Kevin has resorted to using one since his knee started hurting too much without one. However, much of Kevin's "drum kit" is his mouth. He's an amazing beatboxer and is always innovative with the sounds he creates. Hi from Vancouver Island, B.C.!! I subb'd for more Pentatonix and I'm sooo looking forward to seeing more reactions to the group from you. Christmas pieces I think you'd enjoy: Carol of the Bells, Silent Night ( done in a cathedral nave without any thing but an overhead mic), O Holy Night ( 2023 version), O Come All Ye Faithful, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Love Came On Cristmas (a special mix of Joy To The World and Kumama Papa).
Thank you so much for confirming my suspicions that Kevin was using his voice and not just his limbs in making the "rhythm" for this song. It sounded so odd that only his hands and feet made that much noise. 😂 Thanks also for the suggestions for the upcoming season (Dec. 25th for most people, and Jan. 7th for Orthodox Christians in Serbia). At least I have more time for Christmas music globally. 😉 Finally, there are Canadians here (most famous one is @Royal_BLT aka Bruce, a Lara Fabian fan), but I'm not sure if British Columbia is represented, so welcome to you, probably first Western Canadian on the channel! ❤❤❤
I would like to recommend you react to an Australian icon John Farnham singing his version of the Beatles song HELP with the Melbourne symphony orchestra not many people outside of Australia know of John as he choose not to sing out side of Australia but he is the best male singer you will hear he did have one world wide hit which he also sang at this concert here is the link th-cam.com/video/dv54giOSRKs/w-d-xo.html it is always best to listen to john live
Well, you are right. I have never heard of John and I do enjoy The Beatles. If you have the patience, as I sure take my time introducing artists one by one to the channel, I've added your suggestion to my list and I hope to hear many performers from countries whose local music I am not that familiar with, Australia included. 😊
One thing - you may want to dim your screen showing their video or otherwise pause the recording periodically or it might get a copyright violation. It can be kinda a PIB and we understand.
Thank you for that! I've found that stuff doesn't really work, while patience seems to... If a strike happens, I'll figure out a way to deal with it somehow. In the meantime, I plan to be patient and respectful - hopefully both those things will impact the views their record company has on reactors. They can keep the copyright if they care so much, as long as they let the video be seen. 😊
A warning for posting Pentatonix videos. Their record company come down with copyright violations nearly instantly, usually within the week. You will need to distort or layer a level of opacity over the video. It does NOT detract from our viewing. We are watching and listening to your reactions. If we want to see the original, it's easy enough to visit their page direct.
Thank you for the warning. However, distorting or blurring the video does not do anything, so I'm simply going to hope that they will be happy people enjoy and promote Pentatonix. I waited a month to publish this one as it was originally blocked, so hopefully they intentionally allowed it. After all, it's free word-of-mouth marketing. It can't hurt them. It can only increase the fan base. 😊
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
@tolun99 Finally, I've come to one you alone recommended and boy, was this a great choice! These guys are GREAT! Thank you so much for the introduction to this acapella group. If there wasn't for you I would sure be missing a lot. ❤❤❤
I'm thrilled you liked it! I'm not surprised since our taste so often match. It reminded me so much of the same reaction I had myself when watched it the first time. The harmonies of Pentatonix is very hard to beat. There are others like the Bee Gees that comes to mind, but this group make it work so well with each member being very talented. Loved your reaction as always. ❤❤
I love how TH-cam thinks! A comment in reply to a pinned comment doesn't even show up for me in the Studio, until I literally look for it. 😂 I expected to love it, knowing who suggested it, and you were not wrong - I did! So glad to hear our reactions were similar, like our taste in music. See you soon on the next one and thank you, once again! You dug up a diamond here. ❤❤❤
@@AleksReacts Thank you Aleks. Wow, the TH-cam algo works in mysterious ways 🤣 Glad you found it. But I guess you might not read this comment then 🤣🤣
Ah, but this one is a reply to a comment that isn't pinned. Totally logical, right? 🤣🤣🤣
@@AleksReacts Haha, love it. We're playing hide and seek now 😆
The first soloist, Scott, takes over bass from Avi, the second soloist when he has his solos. The young lady is Kirsten and she's out of this world. Mitch is the fourth soloist and has an incredible range. Kevin is the beatboxer and yes it's all chest slapping, clapping, foot stomping, and his voice. Let me just thank you for your appreciation of Kirsten. So many times, she gets overlooked because people aren't ready for Mitch's voice. I'm so happy to see her get some amazing attention. I loved your reaction and am subscribing so I can see more.
Thank you and welcome to the channel Montana! ❤ Many have told me there's more to Scott and also that many people overlook Kirstin. I think I had some preparation for Mitch in the form of Dimash and Marcelito Pomoy, so he wasn't that much of a shock, though his voice is lovely. Maybe that's what helped me focus on all of them rather than just Mitch. Kirstin, like Avi and Mitch in this performance really deserves the praise. That's a tough bit to sing for anyone. Yes, I will certainly listen to more of PTX and I do hope you'll enjoy the journey. 😊
These guys are world class. You need to explore this rabbit hole a LOT more. We pentaholics will grin and follow you in your journey.
Well, the first one was impressive, so yeah, the journey will continue... 😊
Welcome to Pentatonix. Their rendition of The Prayer is a beautiful piece I think you will really enjoy. There are many great tunes they do.
Thank you, Jeff! So many suggestions coming at me and most sound really interesting. I'll be sure to check out The Prayer and quite a few others.
If you think that it is impossible for an acapella group to perform a song that has no words...think again. Listen to their version of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. The official video is fabulous too and this performance won them a Grammy.
I don't think that, especially after this arrangement, but that fact is not going to stop me from hearing an a cappella instrumental. Thanks for adding that to the suggestions!
Subbed for more PTX! Kevin the beatboxer is a musical genius. He eats a whole drumset for Breakfast, just letting you know...LOL! Sound of Silence is a great one by them too! The drums by Kevin in Bohemian Rhapsody cover of Queen is an outstanding example. Welcome to the Rabbit Hole! I was not disappointed by your beautiful smile when it came through! I was waiting for it! When PTX does covers they make it upgrades.
Thank you, I am glad you enjoyed this! Both of those songs are such classics, so I will be sure to listen to the Pentatonix renditions. After this, I do expect a lot from them - this is the best version of Hallelujah I have ever heard and there have been so many...
Yes indeed, listen to their cover of Bohemian Rhapsody ... you will NEVER hear a better cover of ANY song than what Pentatonix can do!
Ah, the trouble with that one is that I LOVE the original. I'll certainly want to hear it, but what my reaction is likely to be, I can't even guess. 😊
@@AleksReacts I guarantee you will not be disappointed. It will blow your mind; I promise.
We shall see, perhaps you're right and the only way to find out is to hear it. ❤
Not enough people appreciate Kirsty IMHO. I'm glad to see the appreciation here.
The only explanation for that in my mind is that they all have so much talent and both Avi and Mitch bring a bit of a shock, so it's hard for most people to let it all sink in. I just focus a lot each time I listen to something new and Kirstin really is amazing here. 😊
@AleksReacts They did a cover of Say Something where Kirsty takes the lead role. Avi is still in the group at this time. It's fantastic. Kevin gets to play the cello and there is a bit of a surprise at the end most new viewers don't expect.
Hmmm, what a way to "sell" a song... Added to the very long list. I did not expect so many suggestions nor so many people to even notice the reaction, but I'm very happy you all did. Then again, keeping up with the comments is really, really hard and I am fast typist. 😂
Pentatonix a "brief" background.
They won The Sing Off in 2011. They made a guest starring appearance on America′s Got Talent as non−competitors a couple of years after that.
The founding members are:-
Scott Hoying (tall blond guy, natural baritone but has an impressive five−to−six octave range, can go all the way up to high tenor and down to bass, sings the bass lines when the usual bass singer takes the lead);
Kirstin "Kirstie" (Rhymes with "Thirsty") Maldonado (the only female member, natural mezzo soprano, but can go down to low alto and as high as upper soprano, also can sing in whistle notes that are off the scale); For a time in 2018 between the group’s tours, had the female lead on Broadway in the production of “Kinky Boots”.
Mitch Grassi (a true contra−tenor, can hit high notes in his chest voice with ease and go WAY higher in his falsetto, also with ease);
Avriel "Avi" Kaplan (dark beard and long hair), true basso profundo, trained as an opera singer, also can go up into the tenor range; and
Kevin "KO" Olusola (beatboxer extraordinaire, also is a world−class cellist who plays cello on some of their songs, has a beautiful high tenor voice and gets occasional lead vocal solos as well, graduated pre−med from Yale and speaks several languages including Mandarin Chinese).
Kirstie, Scott & Mitch grew up together in Arlington, Texas, and began performing together as children in local youth musical theater. They ended up in high school together and performed in the choir. While there, they formed an a cappella group called The Trio which had several performance videos go viral on TH-cam, most notably a cover of Lady Gaga′s "Telephone". The three of them are best friends and consider themselves to be almost siblings.
Scott & Kirstie (who were a class year ahead of Mitch) both graduated high school in 2010 and went their separate ways to different colleges, Scott at USC and Kirstie at Oklahoma.
While at USC, Scott joined a USC−based a cappella group called the SoCal VoCals, where he met alumnus Ben Bram, who was now an arranger and vocal coach for the NBC TV show The Sing Off, an a cappella competition show. Ben convinced Scott to get The Trio to audition for the show. The three reunited (Mitch had to skip high school graduation ceremonies to go) in Los Angeles for the audition.
They found out that the rules had changed, so they needed at least five members to audition. Ben put them together with Avi (a native of Visalia, California), who he knew from Avi′s performing days at Mount San Antonio College in California. They found Kevin (from Kentucky) through one of his TH-cam videos that had gone viral featuring him playing the cello and beatboxing at the same time, a talent that Kevin coined as "Cello−Boxing".
Kevin arrived in Los Angeles literally the day before the audition! Scott came up with the name "Pentatonix" after the pentatonic scale. They performed a re−arrangement of "The Telephone" for the audition and passed, despite having been together as a five−piece group for less that 24 hours!
They won The Sing Off that season (all of the performances are available on TH-cam), in which they received a substantial cash prize AND a record contract with Epic Records. They pooled their prize winnings together and all moved to Los Angeles, and all got apartments right next door to each other in the same building.
But just a week later, Epic dropped them because the marketing people didn′t think an a cappella group could sell records.
Instead of giving up, they were determined and began recording their own songs on TH-cam, hiring Ben Bram as their producer and arranger. These usually consisted of the five of them sitting on a couch and performing cover songs live.
Several of the videos went viral, and Sony (the parent company of Epic) decided to give them another chance by placing them on one of their smaller labels, Madison Gate. They released two secular EPs and one Christmas EP on Madison Gate, all of which were strong sellers.
But when their cover of a medley of songs by Daft Punk not only went super−viral, but also won them their first Grammy, they were promoted all the way up to RCA Records, Sony′s top label.
They began writing and producing their own songs in addition to their covers, began putting out a Christmas album just about annually (which has become their best−selling genre), and have had multi−platinum album sales, sold−out world tours, and have won two additional Grammys.
Avi began getting burned out with all of the touring and heavy recording schedule, was suffering from anxiety and personal problems, and learned that his mother had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He announced he was departing from the group and taking some time away from the music industry.
Matt Sallee (from Baltimore) joined them in September 2017. He did only become official when they renewed their RCA contract in February 2018, but he recorded with them in September as a featured artist and went on their Christmas tour as a featured artist, as well. When he attended the audition for the group, he had already mastered the Bass part for most if not all their past catalogue. He was successful and has proved that he fits in well with the group.
If you think there have been other changes to the line up - look again. This is the ONLY change. Kirstie and Mitch are like chameleons and change looks frequently.
It is an often debated subject among the Pentaholics as to just how soon we introduce the "Beginners Guide" as we don't want to overdo the introduction. This is a compilation of snips of a whole load of songs which PTX have released. It highlights each member with some of their solos and then a brief history in video. It is quite long - 14+ minutes and is a little dated now (Feb 2020) but is a good watch th-cam.com/video/lDxIfwfCmQE/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUdYmVnaW5uZXJzIGd1aWRlIHRvIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D.
After a year away from music, Avi has now returned as a phenomenal solo artist in the Folk/Americana/Roots genre.
Ben Bram has been in charge of their production, including arranging and directing from the beginning. He is often referred to as the sixth member. Scott and Kevin are major players in the arrangements, but every member contributes. A good watch is "The Recording of Evergreen" where a camera was invited into the studio for the second week of recording/
Also, all members are songwriters for both Pentatonix and their own solo work.
Ed Boyer who mixes everything of theirs (even the HWB Livestream) is the one who pulled Ben Bram into the sing off in the first place.
They have Grammy wins for Daft Punk Medley, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Jolene featuring Dolly Parton. They were nominated for a 4th Grammy for their album Evergreen, but didn't win. Another nomination for Holidays Around the World album in the 2024 list!
Kirstie became a new mum which caused a pause in touring after their Evergreen Christmas tour 2021. Mid March 2023 Kirstie has announced that she is engaged to Ben Hausdorff, their videographer. They married 22/04/24!
They have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame installed in February 2023. They are the only a capella group with a star!
They came 3rd in the 2023 Masked Singer performing as "California Rolls" being unmasked in May 23.
Things you need to know because if you get these wrong Pentaholics will come after you with pitch forks and torches! Ha Ha!!
1- There is NO Auto-Tune; what you hear is actually what they sing. They really are that good. One exception is the 90's Dance Medley where Cher used autotune as an effect - so they had to.
2- What produces everything that you hear in the video, you see in the official video. If there is an instrument used in the music, you see it on screen. In the 2022 Christmas album, there are some instruments not featured throughout the album.
3- They never release something on video they can’t reproduce with the exact same quality live on-stage.
4. It is "Pentatonix" there is no "The".
Wow, that was brief. 🤣 Thank you so much for the history of the group - they sure achieved a lot and I can't believe I'm only discovering them now.
I'll comment on a couple of things:
1. I'd love to her Pentatonix & Dolly Parton singing Jolene together. Daft Punk Medley also sounds promising.
2. The fact that they made it on their own is what I love about music today - most of the artists I've reacted to actually came up/are coming up on their own through TH-cam (like Angelina Jordan, Ren, Diana Ankudinova, Lucy Thomas, Dimash, etc.)
3. It's cool that they've been together so long, though I'm sad to hear that Avi (the voice I liked the most along with Kirstin) left them
4. Thanks for the heads up on the change of looks for Kirstin and Mitch, I'll be on the lookout.
Thanks again and I do hope you'll stick around for more of Pentatonix reactions, but I also hope that you'll discover some very cool artists. I've been lucky to have attracted an amazing group of people and almost no suggestions have been average. Quite a lot of excellent artists out there for all of us to discover.
@@AleksReacts Daft Punk
When you do "Daft Punk" set yourself up for a double. th-cam.com/video/3MteSlpxCpo/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUUZGFmdCBwdW5rIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D You will think that there is post production skipping, so to disprove that you need to catch the "Private Performance" th-cam.com/video/tw4YCsHXKgI/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUUZGFmdCBwdW5rIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D where they stand at the front of a back-stage room and sing with no mic's and captured on a fan mobile device so the sound is not 100% hence catch the official FIRST.
@AleksReacts. I must say I thoroughly enjoyed your reaction! I haven’t seen someone who is new to them these days, and peoples initial reactions are so fun to watch! I’ll be checking out your other videos and I have subscribed.
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! I hope you'll enjoy the journey with PTX and also that some of my reactions will help you discover some cool artists. So far, it's been immense fun for me. 😊
You are very observant and I love that. Great reaction. Thanks. Mitch the counter tenor is the favorite for many. Check out Daft Punk, Amazing Grace, O Holy Night, Bohemian Rhapsody. You are almost psychic in your observations.
Thank you and welcome to the channel! I hope we'll listen to the songs you suggested together, as I do plan to hear them all. 😊
@@AleksReacts Since you plan to react to other videos of theirs, I will subscribe. I enjoy your reactions. To we Pentaholics, watching others experience Pentatonix afresh is like watching a two-year-old taste ice cream for the first time ... we get to experience that thrill over and over. Thank you!
I do hope you'll enjoy future reactions. Don't limit yourself to Pentatonix, though. Whether you watch my reactions or original videos which are in each video description, you might discover some new stuff that's really good. 😉
This group is a huge wonderful rabbit hole to go down. They have been together for many years and have a HUGE body of work. They really are marvelous. You will enjoy all of them. Avi, Kaplan the low bass has left the group and is now a solo artist. You are correct that Scott, the tall blonde does many of their arrangements but they do have an arranger for most of their music. People say their favorite Pentatonix song is the one that is currently playing. The three original singers, Scott Kirstie and Mitch have known each other since middle school. They won a television competition in around 2011 having picked up Kevin, the beat boxer and Avi the bass. They sing mostly pop/contemporary genre but are known for their Christmas albums. Maybe in the month ahead you could feature some of those. I suggest Carol of the Bells or Dance of the Sugarplum fairy.
We shall find out, as I plan to dig a little deeper. I really loved the originals of some of the songs they covered, so it should be fun to hear their covers in a cappella versions. Good to hear that I wasn't totally off regarding Scott, but I hear there's more to the guy. Soooo, more to come. Welcome to the channel, Clark!
Avi Kaplan, with the beard, is an operatically trained basso profundo; however, when he takes the melody line, Scott Hoying, the blond, is a baritone with a five-octave range and picks up the bass harmonies due to his incredible range. Mitch Grassi, in the hat, is a counter-tenor who also has a fantastic range. The black man is Kevin Olusola, who provides beatboxing, is a marvelous tenor, and plays the cello. Kirsten Mandolado is an outstanding mezzo-soprano.
All together they made the best version of this song in my view. Soooo, I'll listen to more for sure. 😊
Enjoyed your reaction! Would love to see you do their version of Amazing Grace
Thank you! I'm not really big on religious songs, but that one is a classic. It will come up for sure. ❤
Wonderful reaction to a great video! Many Pentatonix fans are singers and musicians, so we always appreciate as deep of a review as you gave. Avi Kaplan, with the beard and beanie, was a trained operatic bass prior to joining the group, and his voice is so rich and powerful, it does shake you. He was with the group from when they formed in 2011 until 2017, when he was replaced by Matt Sallee, also a wonderful bass. That has been the only change in the group. The beatboxer has a nice tenor voice and also has a lovely falsetto. A couple videos where you get to hear each of these five sing a verse are Imagine, a John Lennon cover, and Mary Did You Know, a cover of a Christmas song. Love to see your reaction to either of those. By the way, that little trill during the humming at the end was actually Mitch, with the hat.
Thank you so much for everything you've said! This is a great video and in my opinion the best rendition of this song I have ever heard. So far, Avi, Kristin and Mitch have impressed me, but it seems there's more to this group, so I'll keep going. 😊 Oh, yes, I've been told about Mitch being the one singing the trill at the end - I did not get that at all, but there's time. The more I hear, the easier it should be to discern who's singing (I hope 😂)
I really enjoyed this reaction. Thank you for reacting to Pentatonix (PTX)! Their catalog is extensive and crosses several genres. I hope you'll go down the PTX rabbit hole....you won't be disappointed. I'll be back for all PTX reactions you do.
Thank you so much, my new citrus-based friend! 😊 Though I will keep going with PTX for sure - I LOVED this one, I strongly suggest rummaging a bit through the channel. So far I've only been introduced to really cool artists, many of whom I think are deserving of a much bigger audience. Welcome to the channel and I do hope we'll have fun listening to great music together. ❤
Thanks for reacting to this! My favorite group. Kevin is an extraordinary beatboxer who also sings on some songs and also plays cello occasionally. You can see more of him in their videos of Bohemian Rhapsody, Daft Punk Medley, and Kiss From a Rose.
Hello to Idaho and welcome! You've just listed 2 songs I love + Daft Punk (which I kind of like). There will certainly be more by PTX, as it seems they covered a lot of the songs I like and I really enjoyed this one (which I wasn't even a big fan of). 😊
I love all Pentonix reactions but especially those by someone who knows music. Well done!
Subbed for more PTX!!!
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! I'm actually more of a layman, but I have enjoyed music all my life and have some elementary music education. Helps understand the basics. Very glad you enjoyed the reaction and I can assure you, more will come. They definitely have my attention. ❤
"The bass just came in."
Avi: Hold my beer for 5 seconds.
"That's high."
Mitch: Hold my beer for 5 seconds.
Pentatonix has a way of surprising everyone who hears them for the first time. All of them are great singers individually, but somehow together they become completely indescribable singers!
And you were correct when you talked about "two basses" during Avi's solo verse - sort of. Avi Kaplan (the bearded guy) was the bass singer for the first several years of Pentatonix's career, before he left (amicably) for personal reasons, and now has a solo career - he's definitely worth a listen. When he (or Matt Sallee, the current bass singer who took over after Avi left) is singing a solo, the first singer, blond Scott Hoying, actually sings the bass part in concerts (there is (still!) some discussion over whether Avi's bass line was multi-tracked for the studio recording, which is what you're hearing in the video). Scott is nominally a baritone, but his range goes from medium-low bass up into medium tenor range. That's something most of the member have in common - very large ranges, and being able to switch in and out for someone else to cover that range when needed. You'll especially hear it with Kirstin and Mitch, whose ranges overlap almost completely. And yes, Mitch's voice has often been mistaken for a female by someone hearing it for the first time.
I'm so glad you enjoyed your first experience listening to Pentatonix - I hope you'll enjoy many more!
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel, Badger! 😊
I'll just quote you, as we so agree on this, especially now I know that Scott was the one singing the 2nd bass: "All of them are great singers individually, but somehow together they become completely indescribable singers!" What I really like is that they all give space for each of them to shine individually and yet harmonize so perfectly as a group. The only reason Mitch didn't shock me is the fact that I have heard Dimash and Marcelito Pomoy before listening to PTX - both sing crazy high notes, though Dimash really is a few notes above anyone I've ever heard, male or female.
I'm sure we'll both enjoy the journey, as I will continue to delve into what PTX can do. Thank you again! ❤❤❤
You have been Mitch-Slapped. Mitch is a counter-tenor. His range is insane. Welcome to the world of Pentatonix. You must check out their Daft Punk medley next. It will blow you away.
I believe I've been Mitch, Avi and Kirstin-slapped in one go. 😂 This community keeps pointing me in great directions and Pentatonix is definitely an interesting find. I will keep going for sure. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. 😊
Awesome Reaction!!
Thank you so much, Elaine! ❤
That gorgeous, silky, velvet chocolate of a bass is Avi Kaplan (long hair, beard). In live performance, Scott (blonde, 1st singer) takes over the bass but for this recording, they have stated in interviews that they looped Avi's bass for continuity.
I literally have nothing to add. You described Avi's voice to perfection and we agree. It's not just deep, but so wonderfully rich and velvety (I used that adjective before and now I keep seeing it in each comment). 😊
@AleksReacts he a beautiful soul and the world is better off with his voice in it. Avi, along with Ben Bram and Rob Dietz started the A Cappella Academy back in 2012 in Southern California for the youth...like music summer camp. He still shows up every year to put on workshops.
Don't know them well enough yet, so my focus is on the music only for now. Started that way with Lara Fabian and with Angelina Jordan and in time I'm got to see their personalities coming through as well. Especially fell in love with Lara after a while... Just my own process, so for now, I'll listen to the music and then we'll see if their personalities grow on me...
@AleksReacts beautifully said. Music can heal the soul. I love Angelina Jordan. You might would like Haley Reinhardt..especially her work with Postmodern Jukebox (they take modern songs and rework them into a jazz sound from the '20s-'60s)
Thank you! Added to the list, but please set your expectations low. That way I cannot easily disappoint when it takes me a long time to get to someone new. 😊
Few reactors get everything right like you did. Spotting two bass singers. Check. The guy can't generate all that sound w/o beat boxing. Check. Comments about how difficult it is to get the harmonies right. Check. Their ranges. Check.
Thank you so much, Victor! I do my best to concentrate and really focus on what I'm listening to. We're all human, so I won't always catch everything or even be correct in my assumptions, but there's some fun in guesswork too. ❤
He is a beatboxer and a tenor - Mitch is the countertenor, then Kirstin is a mezzo, Scott is a baritone but sings bass when Avi is singing up, and Avi is a basso profundo
Subbed for more PTX
Boy did you pretty much hit the nail on the head. Scott did get the group together, and is a sort of de facto leader. They collaborate on arrangements with the 6th invisible member, Ben Bram.
You win some, you lose some. I also managed to think Kevin sang the bass, so stands to reason that one of the assumptions was at least partly right. 😂 It was Scott's body language along with his voice that made me think that. I loved the arrangement btw, and they sure did a great job! Thanks for letting me know there's a guy "in the shadows" helping out with those.
Avi (the bearded one) is the deep base). When he started singing, Scott (the first singer) took over for him very effectively. Avi left the group after he recruited a very able replacement. Kevin ("the black guy") is the beat boxer who is also a wonderful cello player. You just listened to the best and most creative acapella group. "Home Free" and "Voiceplay" are the other giants of acapella.
I really like the deep bass, but all together they made the best cover of this song I have ever heard. I do want to hear more... Noted on "Home Free" and "Voiceplay" - thank you!
I've been watching reactions to Pentatonix since the beginning of the pandemic, and I thoroughly enjoyed this one. You have a keen ear and it's a pleasure to hear you point out what is happening. Many fans of Pentatonix, or PTX, have favorites, but I think they are all awesome in their own lane. Kevin, the beatboxer, is multi-talented in so many ways that it's hard to believe he is human. He will sing on some of their songs and will play the cello as well. But that just scratches the surface of areas in which he excels. The group has covered Christmas with several albums, and with the season upon us, this is a good time to discover them.
Thank you so much! Very glad to hear you have enjoyed this one, especially after listening to so many - it's a huge compliment.
It's normal to have favorites, as art is always primarily subjective in my view. Even my focus was on 3 out of 5 PTX members, but maybe that's true for this song alone... I would love to hear more, so I will. Many have told me to include a Christmas song, so that will happen too.
The black man is Kevin Olisula. Musically, Kevin is a high tenor, a beat-boxer, and an accomplished cello player. He can play the cello and beat-box at the same time. He calls it cello-boxing. Outside of the music world Kevin is an all-around genius and renaissance man. He is a very intelligent man. The three in the middle are friends from their public school days in Texas. They would sing together in school, at each others homes, and even when ordering burgers at McDonald's! They basically grew up singing together and their harmonizing can be attributable to their long, shared history. Be well, from a long-time Pentaholic.
If proof is needed that you are a Pentaholic, one just has to read all the comments. As a chatterbox myself, I "forgive" you the prolific comments and warmly welcome you to my channel! I do hope you'll enjoy music with me - we already have two things in common - we both really like this performance and we both talk a lot, but you are sharing some cool insights. ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reaction to PTX. About Scott (the blond), he does assist in arranging - as do all of this group of extremely talented musicians, but the mastermind who does many of their arrangements is their 6th unseen member, Ben Bram. They do quite a lot of cover songs, but they are all writers in their own right- as well. Some of my favorite songs of theirs are originals.From left to right:
Kevin Olusola is the beat boxer, and yes, although this video doesn't show him using his mouth to create the percussion much, other, live performances show that he definitely is using his whole body for the beat. Kevin is a concert level cellist and he plays multiple other instruments as well. The group all agrees that while Mitch is known for his high voice, Kevin's voice is the highest in the group. See that in Imagine.
Next to him is the amazing counter-tenor Mitch Grasse. Your surprise is what's known as the Mitch slap. This song was just the tip of the iceberg of how high he can sing. He has such a pure and beautiful voice. See him especially in The Prayer.
Kirstin Maldonado (Kirsti) is a mezzo and can sing whistle notes as well as lower alto notes. See her in her original song from last Christmas, Please, Santa, Please.
Scott Hoying, the one who brought these people together in 2011, but isn't considered the band leader, has a range going from medium low bass to high tenor. He's the baritone and the soul voice of the group with a pop flair to it. He's very versatile and plays the piano. I love his heartfelt original, Thank You - a perfect song to listen to at this holiday season.
Avi Kaplan, the basso profundo of the group has a velvety tone and a decent upper range considering how low he can sing. Although no longer in the group (he left amicably in 2016 due to personal reasons), he now has a solo career worth checking out. I particularly love him in Scott's original song, Light in the Hallway
Matt Sallee (not in this song; he is the bass singer since 2017 - I won't say he replaced Avi because no one could do that and because Matt is fabulous in his own right). He's got a fabulous bass with a very good upper range as well. Another holiday song for him is You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.
The three in the middle (Mitch, Kirsti, and Scott) have known each other since childhood and sang together most of those years. They added Kevin and Avi to join the show The Sing Off in 2011, an a capella competition where they won season 3. They took the name Pentatonix from the pentatonic scale since there were 5 of them, so you got that perfectly right!
Anyway, that's a quick rundown of them. Enjoy getting to know this group; they are fabulous and have more than 300 songs to hear and watch. Check out the ones I listed for each of the singers to get a good snapshot and eclectic look at who they are. Oh, and a few more, White Winter Hymnal, Sing!, Papaoutai, and Gold - just because those are some of my favorites of theirs
Thank you so much for a very well structured and informative breakdown of the most important details about any group - members and their musical abilities. This is a very useful and thoughtful comment.
I can immediately say that if Ben Bram is the mastermind behind the arragement, he's really good at it. This arrangement is amazing and really focuses on each of the singers and brings some joy to an otherwise heavy song...
Kevin's voice being the highest might be a bit of a shock, but I will be sure to check out Imagine now that you've intrigued me. I can't believe you just described Avi's voice as velvety. That is exactly how I've been describing it in all the comments before I even got to yours.
Now, I'm off to write down all the suggestions you gave me to illustrate individual abilities. Once again, thank you for that! Yes, I will be including your favorite songs too. Your comment is very much appreciated.
@@AleksReacts Ben Bram has a lot to do with arranging, but the entire group is involved in the process. As you get to know the group more, you can sometimes recognize each member's touch on arrangements.
I started out like you with Scott (good voice, nasal tone, not my favorite), but I have grown to really appreciate all that he offers through my years of following this group. That said, Avi is my hands-down favorite, and I love his solo music now that he is not with PTX. Most of it fits somewhere in the folk/Americana genre.
I got the feeling Avi has a hold of many musically-inclined hearts and that Matt is not everyone's favorite replacement. Still, even though I said the same you did with this first song, I loved them all together, so I will certainly hear more and discover more...
@@AleksReacts I adore Matt's personality, and he has a beautiful voice, but I still miss Avi's voice in combination with these others!
@@AleksReacts Don't let anyone discount Matt. He's newer and usually their base now but he has a great voice. Listen to O' Holy Night and Sound Of Silence to hear a bit more from him! Nobody can replace Avi's unique voice however.
I definitely subscribed for more Pentatonix reactions. I can’t wait for you to hear all that Scott can do, and to witness more Mitch slaps.
After so many comments on Scott, I want to hear more of what he can do as well. 😊 Also, don't forget that Avi and Kirstin kind of blew me away too. This will be fun. Welcome to the channel, Melissa! I do hope you'll enjoy it. ❤
Dear Aleks, I really loved this. I knew them from singing Jolene with Dolly Parton. But here they were soudnging like her orchestra. This harmony with one of my favorite songs is great. Specially the crescendo Thanks as always, and love from Amsterdam. ❌❌❌ (Amsterdam flag, three Andreas crosses) ♥♥♥
Dear Gerda, thank you so much! Once again we agree. I loved it too and I really want to hear Jolene as well, especially if it's with Dolly. That has to be a treat. Love from Serbia, where 3 is also an important number (hence the frequent use of 3 hearts on my end). Something else we have in common. ❤❤❤
Love your reaction. PTX is great!! Looking to hear more from PTX. I think you will change your mind about Scott after you've listened to more. Can't wait 😊
Thank you so much! I've been told that about Scott a lot. Can't not give the man a shot, right? 😉
Aleks, we all owe a musical debt to the late Leonard Cohen (R.I.P.), who wrote this and so many classic compositions......as always, we all have our likes and dislikes......while there are many quality covers, this PTX performance is truly inspiring........
Though I have to admit I am not a fan of Leonard Cohen, this rendition of his song is the best one I heard so far.
@@AleksReacts I, too, find his voice "unsettling".......however, his song writing (especially the lyrics) is legendary, inspiring many modern artists.......cheers !
They all have incredible ranges. The first guy to sing is Scott, and he is naturally a baritone but takes over the bass line when the bass sings a verse. He has very many qualities to his voice ( try Sound of Silence, Imagine, Shallow, O Holy Night, Carol of the Bells). The second singer is Avi and is a basso profundio but can also go pretty high. He amicably left the group in 2017 and now has a solo career. The “new” bass is Matt, since 2018, and this has been the only change in the group. The third singer is Kirstie (rhymes with thirsty) and she is an alto/soprano. The fourth singer is the once-in-a-lifetime countertenor Mitch. When the group has been asked who is the best singer in group, they always point to Mitch. His accuracy and tone and range are incredible. The last member is Kevin, who has so many talents it’s mind boggling. He beat boxes (while playing cello), plays cello, saxophone, speaks Mandarin and had just received his pre-med from Yale when he decided to join these 4 others on a show called The Sing Off in 2010. They won, and pooled their prize money to move to LA for their record contract prize. The record label dropped them because they didn’t think a Capella was a marketable medium. Pentatonix decided to record themselves and post videos on TH-cam where they developed a huge following. They now have 3 Grammy wins, plus 2 other nominations, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and sold-out concerts all over the world. Their catalog is huge. Pick any song…..you will not be disappointed. Oh, and if you have to ask ‘is that Mitch’ or is that Kirstie’, the answer is yes. They change their looks a lot. Hope you do more PTX because they are phenomenal. Subscribing!
Welcome to the channel, Judith and thank you for sharing bountiful information about the group! Someone else mentioned that Scott actually sings the bass while Avi (thanks for the names) is singing his verse, so that has "redeemed" Scott in my eyes. 😉
Since I've only just discovered them and I happen to like them a lot at first listen, there will certainly be more. I do hope you'll enjoy the future reactions too and that you'll especially enjoy the lovely community that I was lucky to attract. Some wonderful people here who share their love for music, who've introduced me to great performances and made this a very enjoyable activity for me and others who visit. ❤❤❤
If you enjoyed this version, they very recently did a live version, which, in my opinion, tops this one. Be warned that Avi (the original bass is not in the NEW video. Matt, who replaced Avi, is. I must say that he's a great addition to PTX. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy!
Truth be told, I don't think I'll be reacting to it, but I've already been told that I must hear it. Fans often know what they're talking about. Hence, I will be sure to hear it (if I don't get to the reaction part). Thank you! 😊
@@robertmoralez-muniz6122I still prefer the original. But that's not a hill I will die on as both versions are great.
I think it's because I prefer Avi over Matt. (Matt is amazing)
I definitely prefer the original with Avi but I prefer Avi to Matt and have not listened to their music post 2017 except twice. Matt is an acceptable bass for the sound the group was going forward with.
Scott has said that if being a singer wouldn't pan out for him, he would've wanted to arrange music for the movies. Also, it's been a year or more since we first heard from Scott that PTX was involved in trying to get a musical play onto the Broadway stage and that they were in preliminary talks. It usually takes years & years for everything to come together, so we're still very hopeful. I'm betting Scott just might be wanting the Arranger's job.
Oh. And I believe Scott has just been nominated for a Grammy for his arrangement on one of his solo works.
Aha! So I wasn't totally off on Scott being a big part of the arrangements. It was a gut feeling, by the way. Glad to hear I can still trust my instincts a bit. 🤨 Hopefully, they all still have a long and beautiful life and career before them. 😊
That lovely violin at the end is Mitch. You are the first reactor I've seen notice it although you thought it was Kirsty.
That was such a beautiful touch. Loved it! I'm sure many caught it, but maybe didn't comment. 🙂
That was actually Mitch throwing that in at the end, lol, not Kirstin. To give Mitch a proper hearing, I think you'll want to hear more. I suggest their lovely cover of "The Prayer" in which he sings the Celine Dion part. They say Kirstin is a Mezzo Soprano, but she has an incredible range, as does Scott, who is technically a baritone, but covers the bass when the bass solos and also sings in a lovely high range. I would also suggest you listen to their recently released live version of this song. It's easier to see what everyone is doing, it's a nice way to see where they are almost a decade later, and since this is their number one hit, they sing it all the time, so they have made changes to the arrangement, particularly at the end. Also, of course, Avi, their original bass is no longer with them, so it is a nice introduction to Matt who has been their bass for about 8 years, now. I enjoyed your reaction. They have a very deep catalog of covers, originals, Christmas music, collaborations and solo side projects, earning 3 Grammys with 5 nominations, so there is a lot to explore should you choose to. I subbed in hopes for more!
First of all, welcome to the channel and thank you so much for your thoughtful and informative comment! These are the kind of comments I enjoy. The ones I can learn from, like totally missing who's singing the bit at the end and attributing Kevin with the bass that was in fact Scott. Seriously, thanks for telling me. 😊 I can definitely say I want to hear quite a lot more from PTX, especially since I loved the arrangement along with really great voices harmonizing so well together. All the suggestions are written down, so I'll take them one at a time. Thanks again! ❤
Scott, tall blonde guy is a baritone with a wide range. He is the one who takes over the bass when the bass sings his verse.
The guy in the hat is Mitch, he's a counter-tenor. That double take you did when you heard him go high is called the 'mitch-slap'.
LOL @ the Mitch-slap! Ah, as I wasn't aware it was Scott singing the bass on that verse, I have to admit I did not think much of him - everyone else seemed a lot better. Now that I do know, hmm, seems I was wrong. Thanks for telling me that! 😊
@@AleksReacts Thanks for replying. This video is sort of in the middle of their journey so far. They have levelled up several times since then and they are quite a bit older now. Their voices have matured. They are due to start their Christmas tour any day now. Perhaps if you saw them live, you would get a better appreciation for their talent.
Btw, I 'm watching you from T&T. 🇹🇹
Wow, Trinidad and Tobago! Another first coming with PTX! Welcome, welcome! ❤❤❤
I'll listen to quite a few more by Pentatonix, and I sure hope you'll enjoy future reactions as well. I hope I will too, otherwise what's the point. 🤣
Our beloved Pentatonix. Their harmonies is insane. We Pentaholics love love reactions. For a Acapella group they are massive. 20,2 million subscribers on their channel.
PLEASE READ THE COMMENTS OF ALAN FREEMAN in the comment section. They have fans all over the world. You are so appreciated for reacting to the greatest Acapella group. Greetings from South Africa
MORE AND MORE OF PTX PLEASE
OMG, you are the first South African ever to comment on the channel! Welcome, welcome, it is great to have someone representing your country! You sure chose a good song to join in. ❤
I see Alan's comment right below yours (on my screen at least). Not to worry, I read and reply to all comments, and as long as it is possible, I will continue to do so. The volume is getting a bit more than I can handle, but I'll keep trying.
Welkom weer, Daleen! Groete aan Suid-Afrika vanuit Serwië! ❤❤❤
@@AleksReacts O wow! Tx for the Afrikaans
It's my pleasure and Google helps a lot with translations! I was only hoping I got the right one, so many languages in South Africa, sounds like a very cool place for someone who loves hearing new languages (like myself). If you have some really well known local folk/traditional music to share, I'd love to hear it. I really enjoy hearing traditional songs from various places, but be picky and choosy and go with the best to show off. 😉
You are so beautiful when you smile!
Thank you so much, Melanie! That's such a lovely thing to hear. ❤️
Scott (the blond guy) just scored a Grammy nomination for arranging. You’re wrong about his voice not being special though. He’s amazing. Watch their new live version of “Hallelujah” or better yet watch Scott’s solo “Mars” choir version. This group decides who sings which parts based on the needs of the song. No egos here.
It's only my introduction to Pentatonix, so I reacted to what I heard here at first listen. I've been told already that Scott can do so much more, so I will explore further...
@ easy to get that impression after one song. Their version of Sound of Silence is excellent btw
Great reaction! The deep base is Avi. The second singer with the beard. Scott, the first guy also does base. And at the end is Mitch, the crazy high.
Thank you, David! Yeah, I totally missed that the second bass was Scott. I'll have to hear more to be able to discern what I'm hearing a bit better. 😊
lol you're so right about scott being the guy who brought them all together! though their arrangements are *usually* a group effort with their "secret 6th member", ben bram. mitch is my favorite member by far though, his voice control is unbelievable and his range is otherworldly. you should check out their cover of The Prayer! it's more recent, and you'll get to meet their "new" bass, matt, who replaced avi about 7 years ago.
It simply seemed that Scott's voice is the most ordinary and he kind of commands the scene, but seems I was wrong (I was told he's doing the 2nd bass), so there's more to this guy than is visible at first glance. Still, a reaction is always a first impression with 0 previous knowledge, so there's that... Sounds like these guys have been around for quite a while, so I'll have tons of material to listen to before I can choose a favorite. In this one, I think it was Avi or Kirstin (yes, names were dropped in comments). Something about the velvety bass sound that just worked for me and I really enjoyed her "medieval" addition to the final harmony.
Not to worry, I will certainly listen to more, but forgive me if I travel through time back and forth based on my mood on the day of recording. 😊 I do hope you'll enjoy it.
@@AleksReacts to go along with this comment about "The Prayer", Scott does the Italian portion to perfection!
Thank you for reminding me about this group, I've only heard them one other time and had forgotten how well they harmonize. Wow, 1.3K views in 16 hours!! where are you Angels? AJ only has 1.2K from three weeks ago (Back to Black), BTW Aleks , remind me to tell Keanu we found his brother 🤣. As always thank you for a great reaction video!🌼
Thank you so much! Glad I reminded you - they're really cool! 😉The views sometimes go up with time... No rush, they're there for a long time hopefully...
I can't believe Avi reminds you of Keanu! 🤣🤣🤣 Then again, who I am to talk, Kevin reminds me of James Earl Jones. 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks for watching each and every reaction - yes, I am aware and I do remember how wonderful some of you guys really are to me. ❤❤❤
Those beautiful bass notes you are hearing are the second soloist, guy with the beard and beanie Avi Kaplan. He has since left the group and after a 2 year break is now doing his own music. Definitely worth checking him out. Most start with his Change on the Rise his first release after leaving Pentatonix. He has since released a full album Floating on a Dream, and 2 EPs Live from Sunset Sound and Feel Alright. Subscribing for more Avi era Pentatonix and Avi solo music.
Welcome to the channel, Heather! Like you, I really loved Avi's tone. Not sure what to expect from Matt, but sounds like they had a long career with Avi as well, so a healthy mix of before and after might be interesting. I do plan to check out Avi's solo stuff as well, but that will be a bit longer down the line - first I need to immerse myself in PTX as I've just "met" them. 😊
Really enjoyed your reaction. That “little thrill” at the end was actually Mitch. I was impressed you even heard it because it’s one of my favorite parts and not many mention it. Please also react to my favorite acapella group called VoicePlay. Their bass singer is in a league of his own and they are so creative and captivating. Please trust me, a random stranger on the internet. 😂
I loved it, it added such beauty to the very end of the song. In my view it's hard to miss it, but that's just me... I will trust one of the many strangers on the Internet who said the same about VoicePlay. It will come up, just not right away. One new artist/group at a time or I'll get overwhelmed and totally randomized as a person. 😂
@ I completely understand 😅 I’ll go ahead and subscribe in anticipation of when you can get around to VoicePlay and Geoff Castelucci’s work. As far as recommendations to start, it’s tough because I don’t know what you like and they do it all. Rock, 80s, musical theater, Disney, Viking songs, Shanties, ballads and more… I would say just pick something that interests you and enjoy! ❤️
Thank you, YouToday! 😉 I'll dig something up to start with and we'll take it from there. I only do 3 videos per week. I have an actual job and I want to enjoy this, not do it for the clicks, likes and churns stuff out. Hope you're patient, but you'll also find some really good artists on here. So far, I haven't had a bad recommendation, so for now I'm trusting pretty cool strangers on the net who've dug me up. 😉
“shallow” and “havana” are good songs to help introduce you better to the group!! :)
i subscribed for more PTX reactions.
Thank you, Grace! I definitely plan to listen to quite a few more by PTX, but please feel free to rummage around until the next PTX reaction. So far I've been introduced to some really great artists and the discovery can go both ways. 😉
@@AleksReacts i will, thank you.
Just to be clear, it's not a ploy to get people to watch more of my videos, there really are some amazing artists out there, so even if you don't feel like watching reactions, just go for the original videos. There's always a link on each reaction or simply search them once you see something you might like. 😊
Where #Pentatonix came from:
Kirstin, Mitch, and Scott all grew up in Arlington, Texas. All of them were involved with community musical theater as children, and Mitch met both Scott and Kirstin there (separately) when they were still pre-teens, and became friends with each of them. However, Scott and Kirstin didn't meet each other until they were fourteen and in the same high school class. All three were choir geeks (duh), and they quickly became best friends in high school. And if you're wondering what was in the water in Arlington in the early 1990s that three such remarkably talented people should all be born in such proximity, you aren't the only one.
There was some kind of singing contest to meet the stars of _Glee,_ and the three of them wanted to enter, so they formed a trio which they named "The Trio." (I know; not very imaginative. They're somewhat better with that now.) They lost the contest, but they kept The Trio together anyway; they performed at school functions and occasionally on local television. Pentaholics still refer to these three as "the trio," and the trio is the heart of Pentatonix.
Kirstin and Scott were a year ahead of Mitch; they graduated in 2010, when Mitch was still in eleventh grade, and both went away for their freshman year of college. Kirstin went to the University of Oklahoma (with a full ride scholarship!), and Scott went to the University of Southern Califonia.
Scott is a very outgoing person, so he immediately began looking around for extracurricular activities where he could meet people and make new friends, and he found an award-winning amateur a cappella group named SoCal VoCals, which he joined. While there he met a former member named Ben Bram, who at the time was a coach on NBC's a cappella competition show named _"The Sing-Off."_ A cappella groups would audition for the show, and those that passed appeared throughout the season. There was a panel of three judges, all professional musicians, who would critique each performance. Along the way some groups would be eliminated, narrowing the field, and at the end of the season viewers would be invited to vote on a winner. The winning group would receive $200,000 and a recording contract with Epic, a minor subsidiary of Sony, the show's sponsor.
Scott was intrigued. He thought The Trio could be competitive, and if they could get a recording contract they could have a career doing what they most loved, with the people they most loved. So he talked to Kirstin, who thought his idea had promise, and at the end of their first year of college the two of them headed back to Arlington to be there for Mitch's graduation and to talk with Mitch about Scott's idea.
Meanwhile, back in Arlington Mitch had been having a very difficult year. His best friends weren't there, and as an out-of-the-closet young gay man with an unusually high voice he was being seriously bullied. And unfortunately, since the bullying was ostensibly for his voice he was quickly developing the notion that there was something wrong with his voice and that no one would want to hear him sing. So when Scott presented his idea Mitch was on board; it was a way to get away from the bullies. He had doubts about his ability to carry his weight in the group, because of the bullying, but he was willing to try, and if Scott and Kirstin said they could win, well, maybe they could.
So with everyone agreed, Scott called Ben Bram to find out how to arrange for an audition, and this is where they met their first setback. _The Sing-Off_ had a size requirement; the minimum size allowed was five. The Trio needed two new members and a new name. They were stumped.
Ben suggested that they'd profit from adding a rhythm section: a bass and a beatboxer, and he knew the perfect person to recommend for the bass, a guy named Avi Kaplan. They talked to Avi, and he was very interested, so that took care of the bass, but where to find the beatboxer? Ben didn't have any suggestions. So in desperation they typed "beatboxer" into a TH-cam search box and the first hit they got was a black guy playing a classical piece on the cello and beatboxing at the same time. And all of them said, "Wow! He's the one! How can we get in touch with him?"
They were in luck. At the time TH-cam had something called TH-cam messages, which would allow private messages between members (now discontinued), so they sent Kevin a private message: "Hey! We really love your stuff, and we wonder if you'd be interested in flying across the country to join four strangers to audition for an a cappella competition show on television?" And Kevin messaged them back: "Normally I'd be there in a heart beat; I love a cappella and have been in a cappella groups before. But right now I'm studying for my final exams for my pre-med major from Yale." Oh. That sounded pretty definite; better keep looking. So they kept looking, and they found someone, but he was no Kevin Olusola. Oh well; you work with what you have.
And two weeks later Kevin messaged them again: "Good news! I just graduated. If the gig's still open I can fly out." He arrived the day before their audition. Mitch had to skip his graduation ceremony to attend the audition. But even with just a day of rehearsal they still passed the audition; they were in.
Oh, yes, the name. Pentatonix is named for the pentatonic scale, which has five (penta) tones just as Pentatonix has five (Penta) singers. In other words, it's a fancier way of saying they're now "The Quintet." 😂
Pentatonix appeared throughout season three of _The Sing-Off,_ and eventually won. All those performances are available on TH-cam and are well worth watching, preferably in order so you can see how they grew throughout the season. Some of them are as good as anything they've done since (which is saying a lot) and are only available in those old videos. (Note: If you decide to react to these, be sure and watch the versions that contain the show's introduction of Pentatonix just before the performance, and the judges' critiques of the performance, and any comments Pentatonix made backstage.)
So, they'd won _The Sing-Off,_ complete with recording contract. Time to move to California permanently and begin recording. And a week later Epic reneged on the contract, saying that they didn't know how to market a cappella. But at this point Pentatonix weren't willing to give up; they *wanted* that career they'd been working toward. So they pooled their winnings and lived frugally. The four men shared two apartments, to cut down on expenses. They arranged music and rehearsed every day, and when they had a song ready they used their iPhones to record themselves anywhere they could find good acoustics, and sometimes in places with acoustics that were just okay. And they posted to TH-cam. Their fans from _The Sing-Off_ quickly found them there, and subscribed, and they began to get more views and more subscribers, and to pick up a few patrons. In fact, they were going viral. And Sony noticed, and approached them with an offer: Perhaps Pentatonix would like a recording contract with Madison Gate, another minor subsidiary? Hmmm. 🤔 Would they like a recording contract? Might have to think about that, for a second or two. Darn right they'd like a recording contract!
And then came "Daft Punk Medley," and Pentatonix won their first Grammy. And again, Sony took notice, and approached Pentatonix: "We've been thinking about it and we believe you might find a better fit with our flagship label, RCA. Are you interested?" They've been with RCA ever since. They go on tours world wide and perform to sold-out venues. They put out at *least* one album a year, frequently more. One has gone Gold and one has gone Platinum twice. They have three Grammys and recently received a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. And they are the only a cappella band to have won so much as *one* Grammy, or to be represented on the Walk of Fame.
The most important part of this story is the fact that Pentatonix began with The Trio, three best friends so close to one another that they might as well be family. And from the very beginning, everyone who has joined with them to form Pentatonix has been incorporated into that family-of-choice. As a family, Pentatonix takes care of all its members. One of the things this means is that everyone gets time in the spotlight.
Pentatonix has no lead singer. Yes, some songs call for a lead, and when that happens Pentatonix chooses the member whose voice best suits the song. This is one way that everyone gets time in the spotlight, and it means that no one is burdened with having to always be the lead. And when songs don't require a lead, Pentatonix frequently has each member solo on one or more verses. The members of Pentatonix are able to set their egos aside because each of them is already receiving as much acclaim as any healthy ego could need. And that leaves them free to concentrate on taking care of both the people they love and the music they love.
This focus on doing whatever is best for the music is, in my opinion, *the* thing that makes Pentatonix greater than the sum of its parts. And their focus on caring for one another is the reason we like them as people, not just as singers.
From what I can see in this song at least, I have to agree that what's really great about them is that though they work really well together they do give each one space and support to shine. I will certainly listen to more from these guys. 😊
Yes Avi Kaplan is the bass. Avi is a classically trained Basso Profundo with a nice
5 octave range and he is also an overtone singer with a very nice whistle range so his range is quite impressive.
The other guy hitting bass notes is Scott Hoying the tall blonde.
He is a baritone and they had to layer his bass sounds several over to make his bass sound full enough.
The black man, is Kevin Olusola and he was hired as a beatboxer not a singer, but his singing voice is in the upper tenor range.
Quite a few people said something similar. Still, thank you for sharing that! 😊
The vocals are recorded in the studio, so the volume and balance can easily be controlled. That being said, they sound just as great live..
As long as they are the ones singing, and it sure looks like they are, it's totally fine to adjust volume. Don't we all do that when listening anyway? Well, perhaps not controlled by each individual channel, but still...
When Avi with the beard sings, Scott the blond guy sings bass. The black man is Kevin the beatboxer. Round hat guy is Mitch Grassi.
Please react to them singing
THE PRAYER
I got that Kevin is a beatboxer, he just "looked like" a bass rather than a tenor. 😂 They all did a great job with this one, so I will listen to more. 😊
For some nice demonstration of the beatboxing try "Oh come all ye faithful"
The list is already huge and it's only my first reaction to Pentatonix. I've gone ahead and added O Come All Ye Faithful to it. 😊
Greetings from Scotland! Hey Aleks! When it comes to harmonizing, Pentatonix are among the best in the business! Harmonies, performed properly are so beautiful and very complex to get perfect. Love it.
Couldn't agree more, Peter! I really loved what they did here, giving this song a bit of joy as well, as the lyrics are not all that gentle on the soul. I loved it as well!
@@AleksReacts I have to add that this is not my favourite sort of music, being an atheist, but I can appreciate some skill in singing and these guys have SKILL! 😊😊
Being an agnostic, I'm not a fan of religious topics either, but some music just won't be denied. 😉
@@AleksReacts Music is music, politics is politics and religion is religion, just don't mix them up and I'm happy! 😂😂
@@peterhowells7309 This is not at all a religious song imo, it just happens to have the word hallelujah in it... have a great evening Peter! Cheers to you and yours from Bavaria!
I love when new reactors discover this amazing a capella group! They brought a capella into the mainstream & have won so many awards! ❤️ And Christmas is the best time in the world to jump down this rabbit hole 🕳️! I'm subbing in order to take that journey with you! ❤️
Thank you so much, Shilohaura! Not sure if that's your real name, but if it is, it sounds really cool. 😊 I always liked a cappella performances, as they are usually the most pure, relying only on the instrument we're born with. So, if you're wondering, yes, I will take this journey - loved this rendition of Hallelujah! ❤❤❤
This was recorded in the studio for release on their 2016 Christmas album, "A Pentatonix Christmas," so in the official video they're lip-synching to the music they've already recorded. Which, in the case of #Pentatonix, means that they're actually singing the song, so they're in proper time and completely synchronized with each other and all their movements are genuine. But the audio track is from the studio recording.
This was shot in the Mojave desert outside of Barstow, California. Because it went with a song on that year's Christmas album, they were all dressed in warm winter coats, even though they were filming it in the summer and the temperature was around 98° Fahrenheit (36.667° Celsius), so they were all miserably hot. Kirstin had injured her foot or ankle and was unable to walk with them; it was as much as she could do to stand in one spot while the men walked up behind her. And they were off-road and afraid that they wouldn't be able to find their way out in the dark, but they really wanted the video to include Mitch's hat eclipsing the setting sun. So they needed to do it as quickly as possible and then leave immediately, which is exactly what they did, and they were VERY relieved to be putting it behind them. And yes, they did manage to make it out before full darkness fell, just barely.
The things artists go through to record a song... I don't think I'd put up with 36 C in these coats, but kudos to them for surviving it. Though the feel might be a bit less hot in a desert than it is here in Belgrade (a city with two rivers and 95% or higher humidity in the summer). This was an interesting story - thanks for sharing it. 😊
@AleksReacts They do seem to have learned something from the experience; nowadays they tend to rely more on sets to do the work of implying that it's winter. For example, that gorgeous snowy forest in "The Prayer" is an indoor set, and for the most part Pentatonix didn't bother with winter clothing when filming it.
AVI IS THE BASS HE IS AMAZINGGG ❤❤
I simply cannot disagree. When that bass came in... just wow... LOVED IT! ❤
Thanks for the reaction. You found Pentatonix just in time as they have an amazing body of Christmas music that you can react to. They are all amazing singers and great people. Check out more of their music before you judge too quickly.
Thank you so much, Ann! Sounds like you're new to the channel, so a big welcome to you. 😊 You'll soon find out that I always say what's on my mind, so don't worry - Scott is not judged badly, it was just interesting to me how different he is from the others in terms of talent shown here. I've been given a lot more information since, and I will certainly check out many more performances by this group. I actually loved this one, regardless of a few notes given that may sound "harsh". Also, Christmas in my country is on Jan. 7th, so there's actually more time for me in both December and January to include some Christmas music from various artists I have not yet listened to. I do hope you'll enjoy the journey. ❤
Subscribed for more Pentatonix (PTX) and a cappella in general. My personal favorite is Kirstie. Her voice is special and very versatile. She even had the main female lead in Kinky Boots on Broadway for a bit. I can tell you was not overly impressed by Scott, but I’m sure he will grow on you. Just today, he has been nominated for a Grammy for his original, Rose Without The Thorns.
Recommend PTX’s version of The Prayer.
Welcome, DF! It's only my first time hearing them, so I'll give Scott some time to possibly change my mind. Then again, it might just be the color of his voice that doesn't attract me. Nevertheless, all together PTX have impressed me with this cover, so I do want to hear more. I've been surprised before, it might happen again with Scott. 😊
Gyönyörű szép volt!!😱👍🙏
Nagyon örülök, hogy élvezted! ❤
@@AleksReacts Tudod nagyon sok verziót hallottam már,de ez csodálatos volt!köszönöm hogy láthattam,hallhattam!👌😊
Szerintem is ez a legszebb, amit valaha hallottam! 😊
Me too, I think this the most beautiful one I've ever heard! 😊
He's a beatboxer.
If you mean Kevin, I kind of got that. 😉
@@AleksReacts Kevin does sing solo parts occasionally . An older one is in 'Mary Did You Know'
Yet another one added to the list. Thanks! 😊
Great choice for your first Pentatonix song. They are the best a cappella group I’ve ever heard, and their catalog of songs goes all over the place. I don’t think you can go wrong on anything you choose, but a couple of my favorites are the Simon and Garfunkel classic, Sound of Silence-and then there is a spectacular cover of John Lennon’s Imagine.
There have been some personnel changes over the years with Pentatonix, but their arrangements and their harmonies are immaculate. It’s a group where each member can take the lead and bring his or her own flavor to the song. (The lead singer you saw start this song is Scott. He opened and did a duet with Angelina at her Los Angeles concert last month)
Well, hello there, dear AJ fan! It's been a while since your last comment and I'm glad I stumbled upon another favorite of yours.😊 I'm aware it might be Scott's fault for singing with AJ, but more music is always a good thing! You're one of many suggesting Sound of Silence and Imagine, so I'm sure they'll come up relatively soon. Just a heads up, the AJ podcast with WIAWB is tomorrow with 4 reactions to Angelina's songs. I'll be around at the time of its premiere, hope to chat with you there too. ❤
Btw, I'd like to hear that duet of Scott and AJ, is there a link you can share?
@@AleksReactsHi Aleks. Here’s the link to that: th-cam.com/video/OOgrfpuHZP8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=cNiJeCKq1M_SWnAx Like almost all of the Angelina concert performances, this is a fan made video, and the audio quality is not good. But there’s a really great video of AJ singing All of Me when she was 13(?), I think. She gives the beautiful John Legend version a run for its money. Here’s that link for a future AJ review: th-cam.com/video/oEeEurjqdWg/w-d-xo.htmlsi=wwojZdlfxFDUm1ni
Thank you, John! I might actually try the first one. I played a few seconds and it might even work, but I wrote down both just in case.
Hello Alexs and greetings from Wyoming! (yes it does exist haha!) I absolutely love finding new reactors to PTX. I've read the comments so I won't go over the basics again, but one thing I would love to add is, Pentatonix (in my humble opinion as an amateur instrumentalist) are the masters of a true 5 part harmony! Their use of traditional and dissonant chords along with beautiful harmonics are truly a delight to hear. As I'm sure you've read by now, Kevin has an amazing tenor voice, and when he's not beatboxing, his beautiful tone blends flawlessly with the others. Two of my absolute favorite songs that they have covered that show this are "Imagine" and "Mad World".
Welcome to the Pentatonix rabbit hole! It's a roller coaster ride, and I guarantee you'll love every twist and turn 😁😎
Edit to add..... I love Kirstin's voice, too! If you really want to see her shine, check out a collaboration they did with Todrick Hall called "The Wizard of Ahhhhs". Beautiful vocals and so much fun to watch!!
So, you say you're from Narnia! I see. 😂 Jokes aside, not only do I know it exists, I know where Wyoming is and I do believe you're the first from your state on my channel (or at least the first one to say so). So, welcome, my dear! ❤
It's always interesting to read comments from musicians, as you guys bring some perspective that we laymen do not think of actively. Thank you so much for that!
All the suggestions are written down and it's your suggestions that often inspire my future reactions, so thanks for adding to the list. It's already a huge list, but we have time. Hope you'll enjoy some good music with me, including more PTX reactions. Greetings to you and the often overlooked state of Wyoming! ❤❤❤
Thank you for this review. The way you understood right away, from their name that their are 5 in the group. I would say, don't judge Mitch too quickly, he is an incredible singer. They have created so many covers and many originals, all are amazing. I would enjoy hearing what your excellent hearing tells you
Thank you so much and welcome to the channel! 😊 Well, my rather pathetic knowledge of some rudimentary Latin helped with understanding the name. I believe you mean Scott, rather than Mitch, but I've been informed that I should hear more before I "pass my judgement" on him, which is fair. This was really my first reaction, and I tend to say what's on my mind. Doesn't mean I'm adamant about it. 😊 In some cases, it might also just be personal taste or perhaps that I simply need to hear more. Either way, I'm sure willing to hear more from all of them.
I just saw your reaction to the sound of silence and came here, to listen your reaction to their most famous song, but they have so many song, covers and originals, All of them are very good, everyone brings something to the group, one of the things that I like more about them, is that they have a female voice, because with her and Mitch you could do so many things, Scot the baritone has a lot of range could do the bass when the base is singing (Matt or Avi), Kevin is great the beatboxer, and great cellist, sometimes they used this, in their music, I would recommend, Shallow and Say Something to hear this, other would tell you other songs, and would be there to watch your reactions, I subscribe to your channel
I am glad you enjoyed the first one enough to check out another one. Welcome to the channel! ❤ You're right, so many recommendations came along that right now I have 139 requests for PTX. I also agree with you that each one of them brings something to the group and the combination of their voices in these well composed arrangements is just perfect. Definitely plan to see quite a few more.
Good catch. The first lead, tall blonde guy Scott, is nominally a baritone with a good high range into tenor and some bass coverage.
Scott has a lot of textures he can produce. With a wide range from bass to tenor and all the pop textures, he is an incredibly valuable utility player for this a capella group. I also did not favor Scott early on, but as he has provided critical sections on many songs, I have come to appreciate him much more, especially during the cold opens of difficult songs. His opening part in Sound Of Silence has just the right amount of gravelly grit and gets the tone set for the rest. His one lead section in Bohemian Rhapsody is critical and could not have been done by the others. He does a lot of the leads in Radioactive and has just the right pop tone to make it work. It's easy to overlook how much he contributes until you understand how they are making each song work in a vocal only style. He is often the glue that makes it possible.
Avi with the beard is the main bass with a decent low tenor range also. So Scott covers bass during Avi's lead and does quite a good job.
Kevin, the black guy, is using body percussion and beatboxing by mouth.
Mitch's very high tenor is gorgeously smooth and balanced.
Kirstin's powerful mezzo has excellent power and a sweet honey-like tone/vibrato. Her strong, clean, high belt is on par with the best Disney princess singers. She had been more subdued on previous songs, but she had recently been in a broadway play, Kinky Boots, which helped her let loose and gain some needed confidence on her lead parts.
Thank you, Martin! It's only my first impression of Scott, but like you many have pointed out that Scott has more to offer than what's easily visible here. I've added your suggestions to my list as I'd actually like to hear more. There has to be more to him, if he's not the arrangement guy nor a formal leader of the group. On all the others, your description is very much aligned with what I've heard here and especially thanks for confirming my assumptions on how Kevin is creating the sounds in this song. Based on this song alone and the list of songs I have so far (as I know most of them), it sounds like they take on some pretty difficult melodies and if they add to the arrangements also, this will be a fun journey to take. So, take it I will. Thank you once again! ❤
Scot the one you were not impressed with, opened for Angelina Jordon in her last concert at the Alex theater in Los Angeles on 20th September this year and they also did a duet singing John Legends all of me which was written by Toby Gad who played the piano for them
You're the second person to mention that duet. I should probably include that in my future reactions, especially since I have heard more about Scott in the meantime (like him doing the 2nd bass here, a bit of a surprise). I've only just started listening to PTX, we'll see how it goes from here. 😊
Kevin (the beat boxer) when performing this live, has special mics on this chest and a mic'ed stomp plate on the stage to produce those stomp and slap sounds. Also Kevin's voice range is really high...in the high tenor range...he doesn't sing often but when he does it surprises 1st timers cuz they assume his voice is at least a baritone.
Here I was thinking he was the bass. 🤣 It's just his look is so reminiscent to me of a young version of James Earl Jones that I expected that voice too. They don't look alike really, just something about his smile and facial expressions that I always liked when watching Mr. Jones.
@AleksReacts oh Kevin is a true treasure for sure...wait til you see him cello-box...watch Radioactive or Say Something for that. To hear him sing try Mary Did You Know, Imagine or Little Drummer Boy. Also you may want to listen to some of Avi's solo stuff...pure Americana sound...for his low stuff try Change on the Rise or Chains. With Change on the Rise all the background sounds and voices are him except the organ at the bridge and a tambourine. So sorry didn't mean to overshare....but one thing to listen out in some PTX songs...Avi's overtone....most think its Kevin doing it somehow.
All jotted down - thank you! I got a year's worth of material for PTX reactions in one day, but at least I have choices. Clearly they all have a talent, so the more the merrier. 😉
@@AleksReacts yea the Pentaholics can be a bite over zealous at times...they mean well. Mais yea passe une bonne journée ma sha.
Hey, I've seen that with Dears, Angels, Lara's fans, Renegades, etc. It's only tough the first time around simply to cover all the comments, but it really pays off in terms of very interesting stuff I get to hear. Have a good one and thanks again! 😉
Nice reaction, Aleks. I really like listening to PTX of course, as they are AMAZINGLY good. But MY a capella heart still lies with Home Free. I have yet to hear anything from them that doesn't leave a solid impression on me. Maybe you'll come around to them at some point 🙂 But I have thoroughly enjoyed reading through the comments from all the Pentaholics, as they have provided me with a lot of new insight. And with that, maybe also new perspective. I'll try to be there for the live tonight. Hopefully I'll see you there. Much love from Norway ♥♥♥♥♥
Thank you, Shakster! I really loved this rendition of Hallelujah, and you're not the only one to mention Home Free. So, I'll listen to them soon as I do enjoy a good a capella performance. Hope to see you tonight as I will be there for the premiere, but if not, you can always check it out later. I'd really love to hear your opinion. Love ❤️❤️❤️
@@AleksReacts 🙂
Subbed for more PTX reactions.
Welcome, Dazzie! There will be more PTX for sure. I'm intrigued by them. Still, feel free to dig a little, some really cool artists to find on here. Not a single suggestion so far was boring or even ordinary. 😉
Great reaction. Loved it. Subbed.
Thank you kindly! More to come, I loved THEM. 😊
For some reason I have always liked their earlier renditions more back when they were first starting out and getting recognition, they were more fun...nowdays they are more serious...
I really LOVED this one, but not sure if it's an earlier one (it says 8 years ago) or if there are some even older renditions. Btw, check out the channel this Sunday, I think you'll like the artist that was suggested to me. Her name is Raye and the first song that was suggested to me is just insane. I think you might like her a lot.
@@AleksReacts hehe, I'm kind of glad to hear that, nice you gave it away... so I will be less nervous on Sunday - of course, obviously there never was a reason to be nervous, I didn't find a single reaction of someone not being blown away, but you never know, and at one point you had said you might not like her... I'm very excited all the same to finally see your first reaction to my girl... Can't wait, suppose you did Oscar Winning Tears? Though the description "just insane" matches many of her performances, she just oozes talent... so already: Thanks a lot for finally giving in to my pledge... have a great evening and enjoy it! Peace and love from BavaRAYEa
@@AleksReacts P.S.: Great day for me, not only am I very much looking forward to Sunday, also I just learned RAYE has been nominated for two GRAMMY's in 2025...
I was worried I might not like her, as it does happen, and you care so much for her and I care a lot for you. But, here's one thing not to be so nervous - it would never be published if I didn't like her. I'd just tell you it's not gonna happen. So, enjoy with me tomorrow, kiddo! ❤❤❤
Frank Zappa - It Can't Happen Here
th-cam.com/video/svdrAHn_LGo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=l7xAnqQxPS5wa-vi
for your private pleasure, I haven't listened to this in a million years, but your comment triggered it and I was laughing so hard when playing it again in the context of your comment...peace out
Congralations on knowing the term "Counter-tenor". Most people don't know what to call it. You are in for some more suprises, as most if not all members have at least a 5 octave range, some have more, this way they can cover any part at any time. I won't waste your time as I know others have commented on other things. I will also say I have subed for more PTX. I do want to say that PTX is the Premier A accepella group in the world. They have paved the way for all the others. Nobody else can match PTX. I will also mention that you had some really good guesses, as far as roles and how things work, more than most reactors. But as others have pointed out (I haven't looked but I know the Pentaholics), you were mistaken on some things, but that's OK since it was your first time, you'll see and hear it in other video's.
LOL! That would be Dimash's fault. I heard him a couple of months ago and his fans explained it. When I heard Mitch, it seemed to me that we have another one out there. 😊 Makes sense that I would make mistakes and I'm very glad that you're understanding about it. Some people are not that forgiving, but thankfully they're not on this channel. 🤣 I can tell you that I do plan to hear more. There've been a few warning about copyright takedowns, but I'll give it a try and see how it goes. It might just mean that we'll have to wait a bit longer or figure our a different way of delivery, but I'll do my best and hopefully we'll get lucky. Thank you so much on your kind comment! Hopefully, we'll have a lot more songs to enjoy together. ❤
@@AleksReacts This is a script I have saved for this very situation. Although they have changed labels since the first of the year, so we'll see how it goes from here, I hope it gets better for reactors. After all that is how they became so famous, reactors had a lot to do with that, so I can't understand why the label wanted to block the reactors.
Now as you have found out their record company is stupid when it comes to copyright issues. But most reactors I have heard from (about 25-30 or so) have found they copyright the video more than the audio, so if you will
make the video more transparent, or blacked out
and place some text over it (your name, Pentatonix, “covered with text for copyright”, a logo just anything),
and then pause now and then to talk, it will help to keep from getting blocked. With their label and YT nothing is guaranteed, but from what the other reactors have said, this things create an 80%-90% improvement, at least you meet all the written rules, unless the reviewer is having a bad day.
Thank you kindly for that! However, in my experience so far, blurs or text have done nothing much and too many pauses unless they come naturally would only ruin the reaction and make it rehearsed or planned. That's just not me... Pauses sometimes happen because I just need them, but that IS natural and real. If at some point I HAVE to, I'll give it a try...
One way or another I'll find a way to keep listening and reacting to Pentatonix and to be able to post those reactions. So far, I really only needed patience... Hopefully, that's all that will be needed in the future and maybe their record company will figure out on their own that free marketing is good marketing. No rush, nothing is entirely impossible. 😉
🇨🇦 I am Bias, but Leonard Cohen being Canadian and my favourite version of this song is by K.D.Lang from the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, it makes me so happy to see so many wonderful versions created by good artists over the years ! 🇨🇦
Fellow Canadian here, K.D. Lang's version definitely the best !!!!
Oh Bruce, I totally forgot about K.D. Lang. I think I only heard a single hit of hers about 30 years ago. I'll give her version a listen, it's been so long I forgot what her voice sounds like.
As for Leonard Cohen, I get depressed when I listen to him, but he sure made a song the world loves to re-create. My favorite (partly) Canadian singer at this point I have to say is Lara, unless there is someone else who's amazing enough you could recommend who's close to her talent and beauty (inside and out).
@@AleksReacts KD Lang's version from the Olympic games is really beautiful, of course you can't compare her to Lara😉 but this performance is great.
You know, you've convinced me. I just went ahead and added it to list. It would be the first time I'm hearing K.D.Lang sing that song and it has been ages since I heard her at all... At worst, I'll remember to hear it on my own. 😉
@ Because we are talking about performances at Olympic games, this here is also legendary John Farnham and Olivia Newton John - Dare to Dream - Sydney Olympics 2000 th-cam.com/video/TUqJ13Nfcwo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=H-OS4amT8utqET8e
thank you for this wonderful reaction. You caught several things I had overlooked. I’ve followed PTX since the Sing Off in 2011 to today and Avi solo after his departure in Sept 2017. I have subscribed and will review other artists on your channel. Suggest PTX Sound of Silence for Matt’s range and beautiful baritone. Listen to Avi’s 7 Layer Session recording of All Is Well to hear his rich dark baritone off mic with natural reverb. again thank you
Thank you so much, Jan and a warm welcome to you for such a sweet and thoughtful comment! I'm sure there are quite a few things I overlooked, that's the beauty of good music - we all hear different things. 😊 Sound of Silence has been suggested so many times that it's highly likely I'll listen to that next. As I enjoyed Avi's voice, I do plan to hear his solo stuff, but that's a bit longer down the road. One at a time feels natural, so PTX have an advantage - I already heard something by them. Please do check out other artists, many amazing ones I've been introduced to and lately it seems some people have found artists they now like through my channel - the whole purpose of reactions in a way, right?
Thank you as well, once again! ❤❤❤
Hope you have a year, because this rabbit hole is long! Covers that they do become upgrades! They just released a new live version of Hallelujah. Sometimes they use instruments. Kiss from a Rose, is a good one also!
I hope I have 50+ years to keep doing this. I'm only almost half way to 100 years of age. 😂 I doubt I'll be reaction to versions of songs by the same group, as there are so many songs yet to hear, but Kiss from a Rose will happen. 😊 Thank you!
Each of these five sing lead on different songs. You will be impressed as you discover each of them and the incredible range and ability of each. Avi Kaplan, the deep bass, left the group in 2017. Pentatonix brought in a new fifth member who is also extremely talented. So Pentatonix continued to make incredible music, and Avi started a solo career. Avi has become my favorite singer. Whether you react or not, I suggest you check out Avi's solo music. Here's one of my favorites: th-cam.com/video/sNjbAAjF4Tg/w-d-xo.htmlsi=H9LqejOjPwrQXReE
@rfiliagaful just gave me a great breakdown of who to look out for in each of the songs he suggested, so that ought to help. Avi impressed me here, so I will be sure to listen to his solo music as well. I won't promise reactions, as I do not want to disappoint and currently I do want to learn more about the group, but I am writing it down on my list of 1,200+ suggestions. 😉
And now, sweet person, continue to have your spirit enthralled by listening to their covers: Imagine (John Lennon), The Prayer, Amazing Grace ... and PLEASE share your reaction with us. You are wonderful and we Pentaholics love good REACTORS such as yourself!
Ah, a poetic spirit, I see. 😉 Thank you, I promise to do my best. 😊
@@AleksReacts BTW, their songs that seem religious are incredible works of art (The Prayer, Amazing Grace, Mary Did You Know etc). With your ear and temperament, your reaction will be delicious! And THANK YOU!!
Thank you so much for the compliments! I'm rather non-religious, but that doesn't mean I can't hear a religious song and appreciate the musicality of it. 😊
Oh wow, your first time ever Pentatonix... this will be interesting, let's see what you think... They're fabulous, aren't they? Have you reacted to Home Free yet? Another really exceptional a capella group... Peace and love from Bavaria, have a nice evening!
Hello, my dear Bavarian friend! Glad to hear we both enjoyed this one by Pentatonix, and I will add Home Free at some point, as I'm told they also sing a cappella, which I really like. Some pretty cool news for you btw. Raye is up next this Sunday and I took your advice fully (Genesis and live). We'll have a lot more fun together, Kiddo. 😉 Sharky sure knew who to introduce to each other. Love to you and Bavaria! ❤❤❤
@@AleksReacts O wow, piccolinissima, I knew you'd be uploading your first time ever RAYE reaction tomorrow, as I had read your recommendation to someone else in your answer to their comment, but I said to Sharkey I suppose it's going to be Oscar Winning Tears live at Royal Albert Hall... To hear you really took a deep dive and did Genesis both the MV and a live has me even more excited for tomorrow. I can't even imagine what an impression that would leave, as I had known her before Genesis was released, had heard a snippet she had sneaked into her medley at the Brit Awards, and the Montreux live version came out later (or which one did I recommend?), was it the whole song, but live, or the live recording session of Genesis part iii... well, you may leave a few surprises for tomorrow, no need to answer, just wondering... Anyway I was really happy to see you even started promoting your reaction to her before you uploaded it, seems you don't regret having listened to this BavaRAYEan Halien Angel... Lots of love right back to you, will go out in the garden now to calm down... Have a nice evening, see you tomorrow! Kiddodo
Oh, no, I could not possibly do both the MV and the live (it would likely be blocked), but I went with the live, as you said that you'd usually suggest the MV, but in this case you thought live would be even better. I did watch the MV later on, so I'll tell you what I thought about it once the reaction to the live is published. Let's talk more Raye once it's out (finally). At least now I won't be talking "blind and deaf" and we'll have another mutual topic to cover. ❤❤❤
😂😂im just here for the Mitch slap😂😂👍👍
My cheeks started to burn, as I got Avi slapped, then Kristin slapped and finally Mitch slapped. I wish they'd find a different word for it. This hurts. 😂😂😂
Mitch Grassi (hat guy) is a counter-tenor. We call first reactions to him as "Mitch slaps!"
Oh, Mitch and Kirstin and Avi all had their share of slapping me here, but the slaps were worth it. 🤣
After #Pentatonix won _The Sing-Off,_ one of the first things they did with their prize money was to hire Ben Bram to be their producer and arranger. No matter how tight money was, they always hung onto Ben; pentaholics sometimes refer to Ben as "the sixth member of Pentatonix."
When arranging a cover song, Ben gets the first pass at it, which is generally pretty close to the final arrangement. But each singer knows their own voice best, and each singer tends to have ideas along the lines of "well, if so-and-so were to do thus-and-such, then I could..." so all of them weigh in on the final arrangement.
As for their original music, Kevin is almost always listed as co-composer; he appears to have the best theoretical understanding of music (I'm hypothesizing, not stating a known fact), which makes him extremely good at taking someone else's idea and providing whatever minor tweaks are needed to bring it together.
Two of PTX's Grammys are for arrangements; Ben Bram was a co-winner on both those Grammys.
I am glad that I got that bit wrong, i.e. I thought Scott was the one doing the arrangements alone, but it's great that everyone's input is taken into account. 😊
@@AleksReacts To see their magic in action, watch the Making of Evergreen:
th-cam.com/video/M60SKKkQLqo/w-d-xo.htmlsi=JPrFEg5T2VdpJaPu And please be sure to tape your reaction to ALL Pentatonix songs and, if you do, we'll be there right along with you. Your reactions are so AUTHENTIC and SWEET!
Ah, to be completely truthful "making of" or interviews or background stories never happen on my channel. I like to see what the artists meant for me to see - their finished work. But I can and will listen to Evergreen, though. 😉
@@AleksReacts Oh! I supplied 'making of' because you specifically said that you wished to know HOW they put this all together with the arrangement. Regardless, I love your knowledgeable and intuitive reactions. I appreciate you!
Oh, sorry, I wasn't clear. I was happy guessing, and it was mostly Scott that was my focus (incorrectly so). Many fans explain what I am interested in (and more), so I'm good. Apologies for the misunderstanding and thanks for trying to help out! The appreciation is mutual, especially with the wonderful attitude you have. ❤❤❤
threeof f them met in JR High choir a music teacher that went to heaven she just retired a few years ago fell apart as a teacher She was a special person in their music. Once in a life time experience
Hi David! I'm afraid some of your comment got a bit jumbled or cut by accident. My understanding is that there's a song they did with their teacher you think would be interesting to hear. Could you please let me know what it is?
Welcome to the world of Pentaholics! Enjoy the ride... :)
Welcome to the channel, Duke! I sure plan to enjoy the ride. 😉
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NEW SUBSCRIBER!
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PLEASE DO MORE OF THEM!!
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I HIGHLY RECOMMEND "MY HEART WITH YOU" live from the Hollywood Bowl & "SILENT NIGHT" the live version where they're performing in the vestibule of a very large Church. It is from about 10 or so years ago. Neither of these performances have any beat box & are 5 PART HARMONY thru out...
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ENNNNNNNJJJOYYYYYYY!!
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You're very welcome to the channel! ❤❤❤
I sure do want to hear more from these guys! I loved the arrangement here, along with the voices. Since you're new, I have a long list, but each and every suggestion is added to it, so more to come. Hope you'll enjoy with me. 🥰🥰🥰
Subscribed.
If you decide to continue down this rabbit hole you can expect a *lot* of new subscriptions; #Pentatonix fans are enthusiastic about reaction videos to anything our favorite band puts out.
Some useful terminology:
• pentaholic = Pentatonix fan
• PTX = abbreviation for Pentatonix - extremely useful in searches
• the trio = Kirstin, Mitch, and Scott
• Mitch slap = what you get the first time you realize how incredible Mitch's voice is.
• Avi-lanche = like a Mitch slap, except with Avi instead of Mitch.
• KO = like a Mitch slap or Avi-lanche, except with Kevin Olusola.
• Matt attack = like a Mitch slap, Avi-lanche, or KO, except with Matt.
• Great Scott! (or ButterScott) = like a Mitch slap, Avi-lanche, KO, or Matt attack, except with Scott.
• Unfortunately, we haven't been able to come up with a good name for what Kirstin does to us. 😔
(Note: You never become immune to Mitch slaps, Avi-lanches, KOs, Matt attacks, Great Scotts, or the similar things that Kirstin does. They always have the ability to surprise us.)
You can't go wrong listening to anything Pentatonix has released; it's all gorgeous. But all pentaholics have our own personal favorites that we like to recommend. These are some of my favorites:
• "Hallelujah" ( a recent live performance, with Matt and a new arrangement: th-cam.com/video/Se0BmDdZuX0/w-d-xo.html )
• "Imagine" (the official video)
• "The Prayer"
• "Bohemian Rhapsody" (the official video)
• "Sound of Silence"
• "Run To You" (an original, written by Avi and Kevin)
• "Happy Now" (another original)
• "Daft Punk Medley" (their first Grammy winner)
• "O Come All Ye Faithful"
• "O Holy Night" (they did a totally new recording for their 2023 Christmas album; you can find the official video here: th-cam.com/video/ReJAU2mXm8w/w-d-xo.htmlsi=upj2Q3vLqigVEtgm )
• "Pure Imagination / Christmas Time is Here" (preferably the live Vevo recording)
• "Kiss From a Rose" (preferably the live Vevo recording - both of the Vevo recordings are available on TH-cam)
• "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch"
• "The Lucky Ones" (an original, written by Scott)
• "Thank You" (an original, written by Scott and his then fiancé, now husband, Mark Manio Hoying, shortly after the end of COVID lockdown, about how much easier it was to get through that time because they were together)
• "The Kevin Show/Kevin's Fifth." This is a live feed from a concert they gave in Owensboro, Kentucky, Kevin's home town: th-cam.com/video/DbCasvcNx78/w-d-xo.html and this is the very special performance of "Kevin's Fifth" (without "The Kevin Show") from Kevin's birthday in 2022: th-cam.com/video/7m0g7xThIWs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=99F7iG5qkdgPCm43
Additionally, *if* you're familiar with _"The Wizard Of Oz"_ (the 1939 movie starring Judy Garland), I recommend "Todrick Hall - The Wizard of Ahhhs (ft. Pentatonix)": th-cam.com/video/QkVeKb2igrg/w-d-xo.html If you've never seen the movie it won't make sense, so take care of that first. One advantage to reacting to "The Wizard of Ahhhs" is that you won't need to obscure the video to avoid copyright claims. Most of Pentatonix's copyrights are owned by their publisher, RCA, and RCA is notorious for getting reaction videos taken down over copyright issues, but the copyrights for "The Wizard of Ahhhs" are owned by Todrick Hall, and Todrick seems to be more interested in good publicity than in stomping on innocent reactors. (I regret to say that Todrick has gotten a lot of bad publicity in recent years, for very good reasons; he appears to be something of a jerk. But making copyright claims against other TH-camrs isn't one of his vices.)
Goodness, that was a lot, but you provided a lot of material to look into. All jotted down on my end, of course. Thank you for that, as well as for sharing the story of the group for all who'd like to learn more. 😊
You should react to their version of Bohemian Rhapsody.
I plan to, among other things that have been suggested.
MORE acapella magic? Try these groups: Home Free and Voiceplay. Each also has 5 members and many of those members do solo work. Voiceplay's Jeff Castellucci' s bass voice is earth-shaking. Listen to his 16 Tonnes cover! BTW - He does most of his own back-up singing as well. His range is about 5 full octaves!
You're the first one to give me a song to react to by Home Free and one I actually kinda know... I'll have to dig up the original before I hear them, but I am interested. Thank you again! 😉
@@AleksReactsThe song 16 Tons recommendation is actually by VoicePlay’s bass singer Geoff Castelucci. And yes, he has a 5 octave range and does all of the singing on his channel. He clones himself or you might just hear it. Sometimes he’s in costume. Geoff and VoicePlay are the theater kids of acapella and they are a lot of fun. ❤
Thank you for helping me out with that. I totally wrote it down for Home Free. 😂 I'll make sure to check out both a cappella groups, I just enjoy voices, so a cappella is my kind of performance anyway. ❤
@ Yes, ma’am!! I love acapella so much. Geoff’s solo work is not acapella because he produces his own backing music and plays piano. But it’s also very enjoyable! 😄
It's new and sounds like many like Geoff, so can't hurt to check him out. 😊
So funny you weren't impressed with the 1st singer.. he, over time, has proven to have the most versatile voice of them all. He was the second bass singer you heard. He was a soft, and loud, and growly, and buttery voice, and country voice depending on the song. Check out "Oh Holy Night" next. You will hear ALL of his voice tones in the same song.. plus it is a Christmas song and their best, I think. You also will be greatly impressed with Kirsten and the new bass Matt. Thanks for your thoughtful reaction!
Thank you so much for laughing with me rather than at me! In this one, Scott sounded a bit too nasal to me, but I've since been informed that his is the 2nd bass too, so seems I'm yet to get to know this guy. Kirsten already impressed me, almost everything she sang was done to perfection and I love her tone of voice. The same goes for Avi, so I'm a bit apprehensive about this Matt guy. I just heard them for the first time and the voice I loved the most is no longer with them. Dang it.
Thank you for suggesting a Christmas song - I have ample time to do those as worldwide Christmas is mostly celebrated on Dec. 25th, while we celebrate ours on Jan. 7th. You've just given me the 2nd song to include within that period. 😉 This should be fun. 🥰
Y’all got “Mitch slapped”
Y'all is just me and it was 3 slaps (Avi, Kristin and Mitch) 😂
Try out their "Amazing Grace" and "O Holy Night" Kirsten does a great job on those and steals the show
For me Kirsten stole at least a part of the show here, but I will check those out too. 😊
Leonard Cohen's favorite cover of his song.
Well, I'll agree with him on that! He may not be my favorite singer (not even close really), but at least he has a good ear for music. 😊
Back in the day, before 2017, the bass for Pentatonix was Avi Kaplan. Personally (and I know Kaplan’s fans may not agree), I actually prefer the bass from another a cappella band, Voiceplay : the fabulous Geoff Castellucci (check out his solos : Misty Mountains Cold, House of the Rising Sun, Ain't No Sunshine). Voiceplay’s music videos (The Dragonborn Comes Skyrim) are often quite crazy and funny, whereas Pentatonix tends to be more “classical.” Pentatonix, Voiceplay and Home free bands are certainly of equal caliber (except for their respective fans, of course).
As a jazz lover, I’d also mention The Real Group, the charming jazz a cappella band (Pass Me the Jazz). And as a Frenchman, I must bring up The Swingle Singers, who began their journey in France 60 years ago thanks to the initiative of the sister of the great composer Michel Legrand ; the band is now British (watch their stunning video Libertango).
All that said, in terms of harmony-and while they aren’t a cappella at all-the true kings of harmony, in my humble opinion, remain the Korean band Forestella (Scarborough Fair, Hijo de la Luna, If I Leave…). But, that's another story...
Geoff is with Voiceplay though, Home Free is Tim Foust. Both are amazing 🥰
@@sandrinamuller3729 Ooooops ! Guilty. Corrected. Thank you. I’m too focused on the East, and I’m gradually losing touch with Western singers (except for a few like Geoff).
@continentzero7572 Well, this is my first a cappella reaction, but you've sure given me quite a lot of material to look into. Thank you so much, especially for including groups coming from varied locations around the world and for including covers of songs that I love (being a big fan of both Tolkien and some Skyrim dragons). Many of your suggestions should be quite a lot of fun 😊
@sandrinamuller3729 Thanks for the correction. Mr. Zero is extremely musically knowledgeable, but we're all human, so help with an error or two is appreciated. 😉
Please react to their live 2024 version to Hallelujah. You will be 🤯
... I don't think any version of H with Matt improves on this sorryNotSorry 🙃
Matt brings his own special, but not on this
Don't know if I will react to it. I tend not to do reactions to versions of the performances by the same artist/group, as there are so many I'm yet to hear. However, I will be sure to listen to it on my own. I wonder what it sounds like with a new singer who I understand replaced Avi. I should say that I really enjoyed Avi's tone, as well as Kirstin's rendition of this, so not sure if this can be done any better. We'll see, one never knows...
@@AleksReacts This group including Avi did a live version as well on a Christmas special. Avi is and will always be my favorite. Do yourself a favor and watch on your own. It's divine. Here is the link:
th-cam.com/video/haFHrfmfHbc/w-d-xo.html
I really enjoyed this reaction and how you were able to pick so much at first listen. Subscribed!!!!! Looking forward especially to more Avi (solo career) and Pentatonix! btw, on the live that I sent, you will see another thing you were right on about, the gentleman who does the percussion is a beatboxer and he does indeed enhance his performance verbally.
Oh, thank you so much, Vicki and welcome to the channel! I'm glad there are more people who really loved Avi's voice like me. I mean, they are all great, but his voice was sooo soothing... I can certainly promise more Pentatonix for now. Once I discover someone, I tend to dig deeper for a while and then move on to someone new. So Avi alone might wait a bit longer, but I'll get to him as well. Mostly because I love his tone.
Also, I do hope you'll enjoy the channel. One thing I'm most proud of is that I think this is the best community of music lovers I've ever had the privilege to encounter. Wonderful people, very open and sweet, each and every one!
Kirsty Maldonado is a mezzo-soprano (listen to their song What About Love for her highest note...that I know of anyway). The guy you kinda poo-poo'd is Scott Hoying. He is responsible for the group existing and for their name. Beard man is Avi Kaplan. He is only one to leave the group. He left on good terms and was replaced by another fabulous bass named Matt Sallee.
Well, not sure if it's total poo-pooing to say the man's a leader, but I was kinda hard on his voical abilities. It is a reaction and that was my first reaction to him. No point in lying or hiding it. Seems like there's more to the guy, so we'll see. I do want to hear more from all of them (new and old basses). It should be fun. 😉
Anything you listen to by them is outstanding - and you have just not listened to Scott enough
Yeah, it is a first reaction and first impression. This rendition is excellent, so I'm sure to hear more. 😊
I'm sure you know that this is recorded in the studio and then they either sing it while shooting the video but you just don't hear it cuz it seems to the studio or they're just lip syncing but Kevin the beatboxer in the studio has a drum pad that's why the drums come through all the time. The other two really good acapella groups, in my opinion Pentatonix the top, they're the ones who broke the ceiling on what acapella could be. They have three Grammys and a star on the Hollywood Walk of fame. Listen to Home Free and voice play. Both are incredible groups and each has their own style of Beatboxing. I don't know how much Kevin is doing vocally on this song they did just release a live version but with Matt there not Avi cuz Avi left in 2017. Check out his solo career very very good. The beatboxers are considered the percussions and the bass is covering the bass line
You're right, as I don't believe the singing would work all that well in the desert with no microphones anywhere near. 🤣 I do not mind, as long as they're the ones actually singing in the studio and sure sounds like they are not autotuned or anything... The one thing I'm very sorry to hear is that Avi left them years ago and I've only just found them. I really liked the velvety sound of his voice.
@@AleksReacts , no, they don't use autotune, but do use things like reverb and I think, melodyne. They're not into heavily relying on studio "help" or tricks, since they tour often and pride themselves on doing most of their songs live onstage or as they've been doing recently, in a special recording room, live.
As to the drum pad, yes...Kevin has resorted to using one since his knee started hurting too much without one. However, much of Kevin's "drum kit" is his mouth. He's an amazing beatboxer and is always innovative with the sounds he creates.
Hi from Vancouver Island, B.C.!! I subb'd for more Pentatonix and I'm sooo looking forward to seeing more reactions to the group from you.
Christmas pieces I think you'd enjoy:
Carol of the Bells, Silent Night ( done in a cathedral nave without any thing but an overhead mic), O Holy Night ( 2023 version), O Come All Ye Faithful, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Love Came On Cristmas (a special mix of Joy To The World and Kumama Papa).
Thank you so much for confirming my suspicions that Kevin was using his voice and not just his limbs in making the "rhythm" for this song. It sounded so odd that only his hands and feet made that much noise. 😂 Thanks also for the suggestions for the upcoming season (Dec. 25th for most people, and Jan. 7th for Orthodox Christians in Serbia). At least I have more time for Christmas music globally. 😉
Finally, there are Canadians here (most famous one is @Royal_BLT aka Bruce, a Lara Fabian fan), but I'm not sure if British Columbia is represented, so welcome to you, probably first Western Canadian on the channel! ❤❤❤
AVI is the base singer, with the beared
Thank you! Yeah, many have said so, but can't hurt to confirm it. 😊
I would like to recommend you react to an Australian icon John Farnham singing his version of the Beatles song HELP with the Melbourne symphony orchestra not many people outside of Australia know of John as he choose not to sing out side of Australia but he is the best male singer you will hear he did have one world wide hit which he also sang at this concert here is the link th-cam.com/video/dv54giOSRKs/w-d-xo.html it is always best to listen to john live
Well, you are right. I have never heard of John and I do enjoy The Beatles. If you have the patience, as I sure take my time introducing artists one by one to the channel, I've added your suggestion to my list and I hope to hear many performers from countries whose local music I am not that familiar with, Australia included. 😊
One thing - you may want to dim your screen showing their video or otherwise pause the recording periodically or it might get a copyright violation. It can be kinda a PIB and we understand.
Thank you for that! I've found that stuff doesn't really work, while patience seems to... If a strike happens, I'll figure out a way to deal with it somehow. In the meantime, I plan to be patient and respectful - hopefully both those things will impact the views their record company has on reactors. They can keep the copyright if they care so much, as long as they let the video be seen. 😊
A warning for posting Pentatonix videos. Their record company come down with copyright violations nearly instantly, usually within the week. You will need to distort or layer a level of opacity over the video. It does NOT detract from our viewing. We are watching and listening to your reactions. If we want to see the original, it's easy enough to visit their page direct.
Thank you for the warning. However, distorting or blurring the video does not do anything, so I'm simply going to hope that they will be happy people enjoy and promote Pentatonix. I waited a month to publish this one as it was originally blocked, so hopefully they intentionally allowed it. After all, it's free word-of-mouth marketing. It can't hurt them. It can only increase the fan base. 😊
Sorry for being so mouthy! :)
I'll be slower in my reply, but hey, be as mouthy as you like - if I can't stop myself, why should you?🤣🤣🤣