Actually Kevin has demonstrated that sound that you heard where he goes directly from the backwards snare to the tom-tom without missing a beat. Also, the floor has little drum pads that he uses quite often.
This is awesome information, and I want to pin it. You’ve perfectly explained how that sound would have been created, and I think everyone should know! Thanks for posting this comment.
@@TheCharismaticVoice you can hear it well (it is processed and not live) but Daft Punk has a lot of air sounds th-cam.com/video/3MteSlpxCpo/w-d-xo.html and agreed... their Dog Days are Over cover of Florence and the Machine on the Sing OFF was great and Mitch, Kirsten, and Scott were, I think just 19 years old... watch it... so early in their career th-cam.com/video/3MteSlpxCpo/w-d-xo.html
alankadair it fascinates me that the inward snare sound is actually how Kevin breaths air in when he’s beatboxing. He always says “don’t waist your breath”
@@wikingagresor What on earth are you talking about? Can you get your mind off of the political bs for like 5 minutes? She's not saying it for some feminist reason or whatever, it's about having a diverse sound with different ranges. But "they have Mitch", who covers that with his insanely high range for a guy. That's all.
@@wikingagresor Oh, give it a rest, please! This isn't a tragedy. She's just saying that they already have two treble voices in the band. What she apparently doesn't know yet--and I can't wait for her to find out!--is that there are THREE treble voices. And I'm not talking about Avi, Matt, or Scott.
janetranslates Oh YEESSS! I’m looking out for that Too! Her expressive stares will pop her eyes out! 😄 However, I’m kinda curious to hear her take on how Matt has put his stamp on this song!! Lots to listen out for! 🤗
Pentatonix, honestly, doesnt have a weak link. Every one of them are masters. I do have to say though, mitch is like a rare unicorn among unicorns, if that makes sense. His voice blows me away every time I hear him. It's high, whimsical, and delicate at times, or he can switch into his powerhouse mode and shatter the earth. Dude seriously is a rarity
If you really want to hear just how powerful Mitch's voice can be, if you really want to be Mitch-slapped to the extreme, watch their cover of Bohemian Rhapsody. They all shine there, but none moreso than Mitch.
I'm a 43-year-old grown man, and when I first heard this arrangement, I sobbed like a baby. It is beautiful. The lead vocals, harmonies, the dynamics, the reverb (thanks sound man). This is perfect. I loved your reaction!
There's a really beautiful vocal slight of hand when Scott hands off to Avi. I think, and I had to listen to it over and over, that Scott slides down into the bass part as he ends his last phrase, and the handoff with Avi is seamless. It's amazing.
@@austinrussell5995 You can actually tell that it is Scott doing that if you listen closely, but a thing that I noticed was Scott missing the first "bum" in the bassline but it still played, which makes me think that they either added this in post, or they had the bassline on playback. IDK just something I noticed
What she was talking about with the backwards cymbal sound is simply an inward breath with the tongue at the back of the mouth or at least that’s the best way I can explain the sound
You can't tell when it switches to Scott doing the bass at the beginning because it happens right as Avi begins singing the second verse. It's seamless.
Yes it is Kevin, but there is reverb added on the mic to make the sounds more full. It's not a bad thing though :) all beatboxers do it when using a mic
If I hadn't heard them perform Daft Punk in a live backstage no mic performance where the only difference was volume adjustment (easily achieved by distance from microphones, as you see in their seating arrangement in several videos), I might think that there was some sort of processing as well.... But there isn't. Further proof - any one of their performances on the Sing Off. Processing wasn't allowed there, & Kevin does just as many crazy sounds.
There's enough raw, off-mic stuff here that would have been impossible to process him in any way. Yes, there is sound engineering that goes into final studio tracks for an album. But it is extremely rare for them to use any effects added, when recording or live. th-cam.com/video/GKrQS4wt78I/w-d-xo.html
To this day, I firmly believe that this is their masterpiece. While all their other songs are beautiful and musically impressive, this song is perfect. So much complexity and beautiful nuance and it comes together perfectly. A true masterpiece
A lot of people didn't believe that Scott was singing the bass line, but he can do it. You can tell it's him, not Avi dubbed in because it's not quite as full and rich as Avi's. But he does a pretty good job nevertheless.
Hunter Whitenight he’s done it a few times with PTX (Sound of Silence is the most recent), but he’s also done it in a few one off solo skits. Everyone talks about Mitch’s range (because he’s quite superhuman!) but Scott has an equally impressive range. I think that they’re constantly stretching themselves! We’ve heard Kirstin go quite low too, as well as high! Kevin will surprise us one day and hit a Bass note to equal his Tenor! I feel sure that he can do it, he makes all of those low Beat Box notes. As for Matt - well we’ve all heard him in Hallelujah! They are all SOOOO amazingly versatile with their ranges, which is why we will never get tired of them! 🤗
I feel like the best praise for their version of this song was that the great Leonard Cohen himself got a chance to hear it before he passed and commented that it was his favorite version of it that he had ever heard. High praise from the songwriter himself. RIP Mr. Cohen. I'm glad you got to hear this and see how these amazing and talented singers were able to do justice to your equally moving and amazing song.
He died before the song was ever released. The last person to interview him before he passed is believed to have said that, even if the song had been released before his passing - that he wasn't in a state where he could even begin to process what he was hearing.
@@coleharris1945 Leonard Cohen died november 7 2016 and Pentatonix released there Christmas album in the start of oktober 2016, and had hitted the charts in middle of oktober.
The performance was great as expected but whoever balanced their mics needs a massive raise. The production alone is amazing and allows their performance to really shine.
Mitch.... Mitch brings tears to my eyes every time I hear them sing. I love listening to the group as a whole. but Mitch.... just brings Raw Emotions that I don't get from other singers.
I love these choir geeks. Saw them live in Toronto. The system crashed but they just kept going. One of the most magical moments in a live performance I have ever experienced.
I remember Ben Folds saying something about Kevin and his backwards symbol on one of the Sing Off performances, so I think it's something that he can do. Super talented that guy
If you go back to when they were on the sing-off, Ben Folds was commenting on the "backwards cymbal" sounds that Kevin can make with his mouth. He is an incredible beat-boxer and can make sounds you wouldn't have thought possible :)
Avi's voice is amazing, but it's hard to say who is the most intriguing/talented singer. This is by far the best version of this song. This is one of the all time best live performances ever of any song by anyone.
Avi helps with percussion when Kevin needs it. You see this happen a lot. Avi can sing bass and do percussive sounds at the same time. It's unreal when you hear it in person.
@@tanyanguyen3704 i saw a daft punk live version, and avi does a whoosh sound on top of his bass line that goes up and down.. it's on the "last night i had this dream about you..." - line
Prancer Which is your right. But after three years, it gets very very old when people still complain that he’s gone. Like Elsa sang, “Let it Go”... if you don’t like Matt, don’t listen. But PLEASE don’t ruin it for the rest of us. Remember. Avi is an amazing singer. So is Matt. And Avi helped PTX CHOOSE Matt. So it’s time to knock it off. Please.
When the camera is moving around the corner as Avi begins to sing lead, keep your eye on Scott and you’ll see exactly when the swap in bass occurs from Avi to Scott. It’s really apparent in this live video, and not captured on he official video.
This is a masterpiece. And the fact that it's done with 99% voices just makes it so much more emotional and relatable from a psychological perspective.
I think Kevin's foot stomp is what is giving you that back beat you are talking about. In the Official Video it is more obvious. I feel in each of their solos they each time bring you up into their pain, and the final part of each solo you can hear and feel the pain that the songs words bring. I can not keep myself from crying each time I hear it. If you have not heard the Official video, I would like to see you react to that also. The setting of the video is also great.
If you want to see more of Avi being incredible, watch his song Change on the Rise!! Aside from some percussion, the whole song is created with his own voice, layered to sound like a ridiculously deep chorus. And he sings with some of the deepest emotions (and notes) I've heard from him.
A good live performance is the livestream he did for Grimey's recently. He did 4 songs and the last was an acoustic version of COTR. Any of those songs would be great to analyze his beautiful voice. th-cam.com/video/BvL-e07tYFg/w-d-xo.html
The climax happens, they transition to the humming at the end and everywhere there’s a heave of the bosom and a deep sighing exhale. The perfect response.
Every damn time I listen to this... every hair on my arms stands up. I think Mitch's voice hits so hard because he sounds so innocent and makes it look so easy.
I've been listening to this group for a few years now. It's always exciting to watch others reactions to them. One of the things I do now is focus on the background vocals. It's amazing. I especially like Scott in the background. He's an amazing lead, but man, catching his voice in the background - it's a beautiful thing. I will also listen to a song five times. Each time focusing on one person. They are so much fun to listen to.
Wow!! Finally pentatonix!! Would you please please react to more pentatonix??????? Pllleeeeaaaasseeeeee??????? Also, Mitch is my fave too!! I totally fangirl every time he opens that mouth of his to sing 😍😍😍😍
It’s amazing because their voices match/sync/harmonise so well with each other. Whether it’s Avi with Scott, Mitch with Kirstin, Kevin with Scott, Avi with Mitch etc. and it shows in everything they do
Nice reaction! I like to watch a musically educated reaction and critique of these guys. It''s hard to impress me with musical arranging anymore because while the formulas for composition are tested and effective, not too many people stray from the norm. Pentatonix takes such huge risks with their arrangements. And often times they do things that theoretically should never work. I am constantly impressed by them, even when the song they arrange is bad. For example, they do a cover of CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT by Elton John. In my opinion, there is nothing that can make that song good. But man...their choices were amazing and unexpected. I can tell you as an audio engineer that enhancing live vocals with dynamics works much the same way as it does in the studio. Plus...this was live TV, which adds another layer of audio complexity. So...the mics are set with a pressure zone approach assisting the band to fully utilize the natural accoustics of the room. Also, Kevin likes to use wooshing effects (the backwards cymbal) before coming in with the kick drum on the downbeat. That syncopated bass at the beginning of Kirstin's verse feels like an 8th note that falls on the up of the 3rd beat in 6/8 time: So, he is beating his chest and beat boxing at the same time. Mix all of that together and you have a fully studio-enhanced performance...only it's live. I just subscribed and clicked for notifications. I look forward to more reactions, especially if it's these cats.
I already listen to this music but it's far better watching your eyes and your reaction to the music as you explain it. The fire in your eyes is the best show of all
OMG my favorite group singing, and thanks for having such a great personality, and being so fun. my favorite new reactor. But I do have to say, I am really surprised that you're missing out on so many Pentatonix beautiful songs and arrangements, I really hope you get the chance to listen to some of them they're absolutely beautiful.
As I look at this 8 years later, I realize how much I miss Avi. I really like Matt and love what he brings to the group! But Avi has an 'edge', tone, and control to his voice that is really special.
I have often thought of Avi's voice as "Bel Canto Basso Profundo." I understand that the bell canto sound is usually attached to a tenor, but Avi's voice is so sonorous, it is way beyond exceptional. You do know that he was studying for an opera career when he agreed to join Pentatonix for their "Season 3- The Sing Off" competition, which, of course, they won, handily. Anyway, thanx for great commentary!
This version has been giving me goosebumps every time since it came out and was instantly my new favourite version. Sad, powerful, nostalgic and more all balled into one.
I don't think anything was added. The sound that you pointed out is an inhaled tone that Kevin uses frequently, relatively easy to duplicate by holding your tongue against the palate and inhaling. As I'm sure you're aware, you can control the pitch of that using the shape of your mouth. Wonderful reaction. I've started to think that this version of Hallelujah is better than their official release, primarily because Avi's voice is not mixed into the back as it is in the studio version. In this one you can hear Avi at just about the same volume as everyone else.
I don’t hear anything postproduction here. I see Kevin switching from vocals to beatboxing. Go watch again. You see him suck in, your reverse cymbals, and then beatboxing the bass drum sound.
I enjoy your reactions, because you aren’t only an expert that knows what you’re talking about, but your pure joy at music performances done really well.
The "switch" in bass line is right when Avi starts singing his verse. If you watch and listen, just before Avi starts to sing his verse, you can hear Scott hit a higher note, something like ah-ah -ah, and if you watch Avi's body movement you can see that he is singing the da da dum (just as Christie's head moves out of frame), then as the camera swings around and Avi starts his verse you can see Scott start singing the da da dum (watch just before Scott moves from the Right side of Avi to the Left side of Avi as the camera moves. That is what it looks like to me. Avi sings the last da-da-dum before he starts his verse and Scott immediately picks up the da da dum as Avi begins to sing I could be wrong, you are certainly more knowledgeable that I am but I think the sound you heard as Kirstin starts her verse was an slick inhale from Kevin. There may have been something else there but I have heard that same type of sound before, Adam Rupp from Home Free uses that type of sound in several videos.
What you may of heard that made you think it was added post production was Avi, who can sing two frequencies in unison. I think it is called over-tone, but I am not sure. Avi has demonstrated it often.
If you listen carefully you will notice an echo within the clap sound. That's definitely not made by a human voice. They used some supportive sounds/adjustments for sure. Nevertheless the arrangement is impressive and the best version of one of the best songs ever written.
@@chips7 Don't you know anybody who can make the Snapple Bottlecap pop sound? Guess what Kevin does for a living? Keep in mind, he is PTX's resident genius in a very real sense of the word.
@@nikelodeon6852 well even the other menbers said that Mitch is the best singer and that he almost always stays on pitch. I think the reason why everybody, but especially vocal coachs like Mitch's voice so much is not because he sings so high, its because he sounds so clear doing it. His vocal cords are ao short for a male and that makes him so unique. I totally agree with you saying scott is an amazing singer but a lot of singers have amazing ranges and beautiful voices. There are more people out there who have the kind of voice Scott has than than people who have this naturally light and clear voice Mitch is blessed with. And please don't get me wrong I absolutely love Scott and the raspy, amazing voice he possess, I just wanted to point that out.
Nikhil Varghese Scott is not their best singer. Mitch rarely strains, and has a larger supported range. Mitch is much more agile, without the use of jaw tension. Mitch’s voice is connected all through his registers.
Very nice arrangement. I enjoyed it. I'll second the recommendations for Home Free. I was introduced to them with their version of Man of Constant Sorrow. They are also an a capella group. Cheers, Steve
Your videos showed up in my feed, and I'm sooo glad that they did. Not only are you extremely knowledgeable, and offer fantastic vocal insight to songs, but I love your expressions of pure joy when you hear beautiful music!!
Kevin makes that sound all of the time live. I've seen them live 3 times! I love your reaction. So full of passion! Thank you from a true Pentaholic! (Please stop calling them The Pentatonix. It's just Pentatonix. Thank you.)
I can appreciate the difficulty of the 1st Soprano octaves Mitch sings. I did this part solo when our choir did this song at National contest when I was in high school. I have been a vocalist for 58 years. They are all so fantastic but Mitch’s voice is effortless. It flows out of his mouth like he is just breathing. This is by far my favorite group I’ve ever heard do this version of this beautiful song.
Great reaction and review of this beautiful song. Have you heard their Grammy award winning arrangement of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy? If not, I'd love to see your reaction to that!
Eeep! Sorry! I mistakenly called them The Pentatonix when listening to their first Christmas album, and it sometimes comes back. Thanks for catching it!
@@TheCharismaticVoice You wrote it that way, too, in the description box, but NOT in the title of your video. Sorry for my later comment on the same topic--I hadn't scrolled down this far yet.
janetranslates it’s funny how we all really notice it! Then it just sticks in our heads - you find yourself shaking your head to get rid of it! LOL. 😄🤗
@@caroleceres That's true. It's not the reactors' fault (or the TV host or whoever) for not knowing, but it really grates on our ears! Sometimes we Pentaholics are more sensitive on PTX's behalf than they are themselves!
It's easier for me to hear Avi's part clearly in this one - you see him more than you do in the official video. Just seems like his part came through more clearly. Man, that's impressive.
I can’t believe I missed this reaction until today. I love when you react to acapella groups. I’ve listened to this version and the music video hundreds of times. You did your usual great job, and I like how your face lights up when you really enjoy some part.
I love Kirsten's vibrato and miss Avi from the group he was a killer bass and in the song he kills it as not a normal bass you think would do at that octave
Your enthusiasm/smile/reaction to this is so infectious. I am so glad I found this channel. Those breaths of joy at the end of phrases just touch my heart. ✌❤
Mitch is a rare breed. There aren't many counter-tenors knocking about that can perform at that level. What do you get if you have basically what amounts to a Mezzo Soprano, but with a mans voice and a mans lung capacity to provide rock-solid support? - a Mitch :)
@@Kopp203 How many Genius-Level Beatboxers are out there who are ALSO capable of speaking SEVERAL languages, playing multiple instruments and not only producing but also arranging new material? KO does it all. You call that two-for-a-penny? I wanna know where you grew up and who you know. And true Bass vocalists are NOT two for a penny at all; they are all actually really rare, ESPECIALLY those who can do the things that Avi can do. Who tf do you think you are slamming here? Are YOU a Multiple-Grammy-winner? Listen, I can TOTALLY understand about being a fan of Mitch and his vocal capabilities, he's TRULY AMAZING, no doubts about that. But would a REAL fan actually go slamming Mitch's FRIENDS or their capabilities? Come on, now. Calm down just a little bit and think about what you printed here. You REALLY think that Mitch is the ONLY one who matters? It's PENTATONIX, which means FIVE people, not One-Plus-Four-Spares. They all work TOGETHER as a unit.
@@jamescurfman3284 I'm not sure where you're going with this and think you're a little confused. My post was in response to Elizabeth's comments from 8:07. I'm not dissing the other members of PTX, at all, in fact I love the group as a whole and will be the first one to fanboy about how awesome they all are at each of their respective vocal abilities. I'm a huge fan of both Avi and Kevin and have followed Avi quite closely since he left PTX. The comment was just a general observation on Mitch and how rare true counter-tenors are in popular music. My further comments in response to your post were also just a general observation that comparitively speaking, there are far more bass singers and beatboxers knocking about than there are counter-tenors, especially ones that can perform at Mitch's level. That is not downplaying Avi or Kevin and I can only surmise that english is not your first language, because I'm struggling to comprehend how you could read what I wrote and translate it into an attack on ANY other member of the group.
I don't know my brain never connected that if Avi is singing, someone else has to be providing the bass. Following this video, I immediately went back to the song to find the moment where Scott takes over. I now appreciate Avi and Scott so much more, and recognize it in other songs too where Scott takes the Bass Line....ahhh...love it❤ I am so loving and appreciating all your videos and learning so much more about technique. My heart belongs to Accapella music, and I have deep roots in life around music and singing. Singing again has been a life saver during pandemic times and you are now a part of that, so thank you! And Hallelujah ❤
Great reaction and analysis, as usual! ;) As I already said in the live chat, I suggest you to react to "Voctave", an amazing a cappella group, their "Disney Princess Medley" is awesome!
As a bass, this is one of my 'go to' songs when I want to sing along... the play between the bass and treble clef is just amazing! Thanks for sharing this... ❤
More Nightwish! I need to see your Floorgasm Face again. 😉 Storytime Ever Dream Romanticide Amaranthe Ghost Love Score All from the Wacken 2013 show. This version of GLS will REALLY blow your socks off, Elizabeth! 😋
Anessa, Justin, apparently Michael is a non-believer. Could one of you please post a link to that demonstration video? I would like to see it myself. Don't worry. I know he can do it but I just haven't seen that video. KO is AWESOME!
@@michaelbradley7529 Had to fetch it but here's one of my favorite songs that has kevin with a more complex part and there's only one mic, ripped from a livestream lol th-cam.com/video/8r3B9j2WF0k/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for doing this reaction video of the Pentatonix. I love this group. I was able, with my daughter and her friend, to enjoy them in person in San Francisco about 5 years ago. (My daughter and I were also able to sing together in the Fresno Community Chorus Master Chorale recently for a couple seasons). Thank-you again for sharing your insights and excitement for this music!
Just found this channel last week when you reacted to Ghost Love Score. (Loved it BTW) So happy to see you check out PTX as well. Now if you can add Home Free and Voiceplay you'll have covered my favorite Aca-trio.
I love watching reactions vids, but usually skip through them talking. But this... hits it all on the nose, it’s not over reacting, it’s honest and real commentary. With real emotion behind her comments. LOVE.
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Actually Kevin has demonstrated that sound that you heard where he goes directly from the backwards snare to the tom-tom without missing a beat. Also, the floor has little drum pads that he uses quite often.
This is awesome information, and I want to pin it. You’ve perfectly explained how that sound would have been created, and I think everyone should know!
Thanks for posting this comment.
@@TheCharismaticVoice you can hear it well (it is processed and not live) but Daft Punk has a lot of air sounds th-cam.com/video/3MteSlpxCpo/w-d-xo.html
and agreed... their Dog Days are Over cover of Florence and the Machine on the Sing OFF was great and Mitch, Kirsten, and Scott were, I think just 19 years old... watch it... so early in their career th-cam.com/video/3MteSlpxCpo/w-d-xo.html
alankadair it fascinates me that the inward snare sound is actually how Kevin breaths air in when he’s beatboxing. He always says “don’t waist your breath”
@@EliaKay1 What is really amazing is the fact that he breathes about 3 times more during a song then the other members.
I watch someone review this at least once a week to see them melt. And.. join them.
"They don't need another girl, they have Mitch." Accurate but hilarious.
It is rather tragic, that such beautiful person like Elizabeth is fallen victim to this SJW mind virus.
@@wikingagresor What on earth are you talking about? Can you get your mind off of the political bs for like 5 minutes? She's not saying it for some feminist reason or whatever, it's about having a diverse sound with different ranges. But "they have Mitch", who covers that with his insanely high range for a guy. That's all.
@@wikingagresor Oh, give it a rest, please! This isn't a tragedy. She's just saying that they already have two treble voices in the band. What she apparently doesn't know yet--and I can't wait for her to find out!--is that there are THREE treble voices. And I'm not talking about Avi, Matt, or Scott.
janetranslates Oh YEESSS! I’m looking out for that Too! Her expressive stares will pop her eyes out! 😄 However, I’m kinda curious to hear her take on how Matt has put his stamp on this song!! Lots to listen out for! 🤗
@@caroleceres "Imagine" is the song to watch for.
Pentatonix, honestly, doesnt have a weak link. Every one of them are masters. I do have to say though, mitch is like a rare unicorn among unicorns, if that makes sense. His voice blows me away every time I hear him. It's high, whimsical, and delicate at times, or he can switch into his powerhouse mode and shatter the earth. Dude seriously is a rarity
Mitch is awesome but countertenors be countertenoring, I think Avi's voice is more rare and unicorny tbh
If you really want to hear just how powerful Mitch's voice can be, if you really want to be Mitch-slapped to the extreme, watch their cover of Bohemian Rhapsody. They all shine there, but none moreso than Mitch.
I'm a 43-year-old grown man, and when I first heard this arrangement, I sobbed like a baby. It is beautiful. The lead vocals, harmonies, the dynamics, the reverb (thanks sound man). This is perfect. I loved your reaction!
They do their own reverb (there is no sound man).
There's a really beautiful vocal slight of hand when Scott hands off to Avi. I think, and I had to listen to it over and over, that Scott slides down into the bass part as he ends his last phrase, and the handoff with Avi is seamless. It's amazing.
it really sounds like Avi's bass lines have been looped for that part, his voice is very distinct when he does bass.
@@austinrussell5995 You can actually tell that it is Scott doing that if you listen closely, but a thing that I noticed was Scott missing the first "bum" in the bassline but it still played, which makes me think that they either added this in post, or they had the bassline on playback. IDK just something I noticed
Well its natural that a baritone will takeover harmonic baseline when the main bass is doing lead.
@@SoLuna137 no honey, it is not natural. People try it but it isn't natural.
yup that's what happens you really have to listen to it though. "vocal sleight of hand" I love that phrase. I think I'm gonna steal it
I need a moment to appreciate Kevin handling 3 different percussions simultaneously. 🤯
Love your reactions. No extra backup sounds. That's all Kevin.
Chasing Birds I believe Kevin uses something called a stomp pad so maybe that is what she is hearing?
Avi also used to provide a lot of beats just not at Kevin’s level
What she was talking about with the backwards cymbal sound is simply an inward breath with the tongue at the back of the mouth or at least that’s the best way I can explain the sound
Kevin's skills are RIDICULOUS!!
@@larrybarrjr.6720 I "heard" that in Shauns' voice!!!! 😂😂😍😍
You can't tell when it switches to Scott doing the bass at the beginning because it happens right as Avi begins singing the second verse. It's seamless.
No no no, the "backwards cymbal" is Kevin using his mouth to beat box. He does all kinds of special auditory effects.
Yes it is Kevin, but there is reverb added on the mic to make the sounds more full. It's not a bad thing though :) all beatboxers do it when using a mic
@@ngardnerPV this is correct. There's certainly reverb and other processing done. No shame in that.
If I hadn't heard them perform Daft Punk in a live backstage no mic performance where the only difference was volume adjustment (easily achieved by distance from microphones, as you see in their seating arrangement in several videos), I might think that there was some sort of processing as well.... But there isn't.
Further proof - any one of their performances on the Sing Off. Processing wasn't allowed there, & Kevin does just as many crazy sounds.
There is some reverb on all of the mics, but Kevin's is much more intense.
There's enough raw, off-mic stuff here that would have been impossible to process him in any way. Yes, there is sound engineering that goes into final studio tracks for an album. But it is extremely rare for them to use any effects added, when recording or live. th-cam.com/video/GKrQS4wt78I/w-d-xo.html
To this day, I firmly believe that this is their masterpiece. While all their other songs are beautiful and musically impressive, this song is perfect. So much complexity and beautiful nuance and it comes together perfectly. A true masterpiece
A lot of people didn't believe that Scott was singing the bass line, but he can do it. You can tell it's him, not Avi dubbed in because it's not quite as full and rich as Avi's. But he does a pretty good job nevertheless.
The switch was "da da dum" by Avi just before the swap, and "da da dum" by Scott as Avi started his lead. Watch Scott's mouth.
@@chrisabel1833 Yup. :)
I love Scott on bass so much. I mean, he doesn't have Avi's richness (or depth), but he is incredible for a baritone and sounds great!
I had no idea he could go that low
Hunter Whitenight he’s done it a few times with PTX (Sound of Silence is the most recent), but he’s also done it in a few one off solo skits. Everyone talks about Mitch’s range (because he’s quite superhuman!) but Scott has an equally impressive range. I think that they’re constantly stretching themselves! We’ve heard Kirstin go quite low too, as well as high! Kevin will surprise us one day and hit a Bass note to equal his Tenor! I feel sure that he can do it, he makes all of those low Beat Box notes. As for Matt - well we’ve all heard him in Hallelujah! They are all SOOOO amazingly versatile with their ranges, which is why we will never get tired of them! 🤗
I feel like the best praise for their version of this song was that the great Leonard Cohen himself got a chance to hear it before he passed and commented that it was his favorite version of it that he had ever heard. High praise from the songwriter himself. RIP Mr. Cohen. I'm glad you got to hear this and see how these amazing and talented singers were able to do justice to your equally moving and amazing song.
He died before the song was ever released. The last person to interview him before he passed is believed to have said that, even if the song had been released before his passing - that he wasn't in a state where he could even begin to process what he was hearing.
@@coleharris1945 Leonard Cohen died november 7 2016 and Pentatonix released there Christmas album in the start of oktober 2016, and had hitted the charts in middle of oktober.
The performance was great as expected but whoever balanced their mics needs a massive raise. The production alone is amazing and allows their performance to really shine.
Mitch.... Mitch brings tears to my eyes every time I hear them sing. I love listening to the group as a whole. but Mitch.... just brings Raw Emotions that I don't get from other singers.
💝 *There is something so special about a group, that can make you feel every lyric in a song, & is truly their gift* 💝
I love these choir geeks. Saw them live in Toronto. The system crashed but they just kept going. One of the most magical moments in a live performance I have ever experienced.
I remember Ben Folds saying something about Kevin and his backwards symbol on one of the Sing Off performances, so I think it's something that he can do. Super talented that guy
It is. There are mic-less videos here on yt where they demonstrated this song and others.
Yeah both Kirsten and Mitch bring tears to my eyes.....so so beautiful
That WAS Kevin she Kirstin came in.. Watch his mouth. He also uses a stomp pad.
If you go back to when they were on the sing-off, Ben Folds was commenting on the "backwards cymbal" sounds that Kevin can make with his mouth. He is an incredible beat-boxer and can make sounds you wouldn't have thought possible :)
Yes it is Kevin, but there is some added reverb and EQ to his beatboxing to make it sound bigger and filler, that is all
Actually, the part you're all talking about is Avi with the deep "duumduum" against the mic. Air impact gives it that "thump" against the foam...
Avi's voice is amazing, but it's hard to say who is the most intriguing/talented singer. This is by far the best version of this song. This is one of the all time best live performances ever of any song by anyone.
Avi's voice is like butter -- so so smooth. They are all wonderful singers.
Avi helps with percussion when Kevin needs it. You see this happen a lot. Avi can sing bass and do percussive sounds at the same time. It's unreal when you hear it in person.
Do you know of a live song I can hear that??? Cool
@@tanyanguyen3704 i saw a daft punk live version, and avi does a whoosh sound on top of his bass line that goes up and down.. it's on the "last night i had this dream about you..." - line
He HELPED with percussion. Past tense. He left PTX after the end of their tour in 2017. The bass is now sung by Matt Sallee.
Drieux Koeppel I’m still sad
Prancer Which is your right. But after three years, it gets very very old when people still complain that he’s gone. Like Elsa sang, “Let it Go”... if you don’t like Matt, don’t listen. But PLEASE don’t ruin it for the rest of us. Remember. Avi is an amazing singer. So is Matt. And Avi helped PTX CHOOSE Matt. So it’s time to knock it off. Please.
I honestly can't listen to the PTX arrangement of Hallelujah without crying. It's just so beautiful and pushes my buttons every time.
When the camera is moving around the corner as Avi begins to sing lead, keep your eye on Scott and you’ll see exactly when the swap in bass occurs from Avi to Scott. It’s really apparent in this live video, and not captured on he official video.
Mitch gives me full body chills every single time. Such a gorgeous voice.
Your face when Mitch came in says it all❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
This is a masterpiece.
And the fact that it's done with 99% voices just makes it so much more emotional and relatable from a psychological perspective.
I think Kevin's foot stomp is what is giving you that back beat you are talking about. In the Official Video it is more obvious. I feel in each of their solos they each time bring you up into their pain, and the final part of each solo you can hear and feel the pain that the songs words bring. I can not keep myself from crying each time I hear it. If you have not heard the Official video, I would like to see you react to that also. The setting of the video is also great.
I love Pentatonix so much. Each voice is beautiful and amazing. Please, please listen to them sing Sound of Silence, gives me shivers everytime!
If you want to see more of Avi being incredible, watch his song Change on the Rise!! Aside from some percussion, the whole song is created with his own voice, layered to sound like a ridiculously deep chorus. And he sings with some of the deepest emotions (and notes) I've heard from him.
A good live performance is the livestream he did for Grimey's recently. He did 4 songs and the last was an acoustic version of COTR.
Any of those songs would be great to analyze his beautiful voice. th-cam.com/video/BvL-e07tYFg/w-d-xo.html
The climax happens, they transition to the humming at the end and everywhere there’s a heave of the bosom and a deep sighing exhale. The perfect response.
Mitch is and will always be my favorite in this song. First 10 times cold chills
I have watched pentatonix grow from the beginning ❤ they were always a favorite 🤩
Avi's bass throughout the song, is amazing.
Every damn time I listen to this... every hair on my arms stands up. I think Mitch's voice hits so hard because he sounds so innocent and makes it look so easy.
I loved how you started geeking out extra hard when Mitch started singing.
I've been listening to this group for a few years now. It's always exciting to watch others reactions to them. One of the things I do now is focus on the background vocals. It's amazing. I especially like Scott in the background. He's an amazing lead, but man, catching his voice in the background - it's a beautiful thing. I will also listen to a song five times. Each time focusing on one person. They are so much fun to listen to.
The beat was all Kevin. You should watch some of his solo stuff and you will see how crazy he is.
Yes. He can beatbox and make all sorts of clicks and things while playing a cello at the same time
I'm similarly affected by music, I'm sitting here swaying and conducting myself, and humming, this is a sacred song
Wow!! Finally pentatonix!! Would you please please react to more pentatonix??????? Pllleeeeaaaasseeeeee???????
Also, Mitch is my fave too!! I totally fangirl every time he opens that mouth of his to sing 😍😍😍😍
I think that Mitch might be every pentaholic's favorite in the group....his voice is just beyond amazing.
black is the color of my true love's hair avi kaplan and Peter Hollens.
It’s amazing because their voices match/sync/harmonise so well with each other. Whether it’s Avi with Scott, Mitch with Kirstin, Kevin with Scott, Avi with Mitch etc. and it shows in everything they do
“Something real cool just happened.” Yes ma’am, yes it did. 😊😍
I cant tell you how much I love watching you react to songs! Your facial expressions!!!
Nice reaction! I like to watch a musically educated reaction and critique of these guys.
It''s hard to impress me with musical arranging anymore because while the formulas for composition are tested and effective, not too many people stray from the norm. Pentatonix takes such huge risks with their arrangements. And often times they do things that theoretically should never work. I am constantly impressed by them, even when the song they arrange is bad. For example, they do a cover of CAN YOU FEEL THE LOVE TONIGHT by Elton John. In my opinion, there is nothing that can make that song good. But man...their choices were amazing and unexpected.
I can tell you as an audio engineer that enhancing live vocals with dynamics works much the same way as it does in the studio. Plus...this was live TV, which adds another layer of audio complexity. So...the mics are set with a pressure zone approach assisting the band to fully utilize the natural accoustics of the room. Also, Kevin likes to use wooshing effects (the backwards cymbal) before coming in with the kick drum on the downbeat. That syncopated bass at the beginning of Kirstin's verse feels like an 8th note that falls on the up of the 3rd beat in 6/8 time: So, he is beating his chest and beat boxing at the same time. Mix all of that together and you have a fully studio-enhanced performance...only it's live.
I just subscribed and clicked for notifications. I look forward to more reactions, especially if it's these cats.
Ohhh your comment should be famous!! Really!! Also, I subscribed too hoping to get more pentatonix reactions!! 😍😍
Thanks for this comment!! I love the details you included in here - especially regarding the audio engineering aspect.
I already listen to this music but it's far better watching your eyes and your reaction to the music as you explain it. The fire in your eyes is the best show of all
OMG my favorite group singing, and thanks for having such a great personality, and being so fun. my favorite new reactor. But I do have to say, I am really surprised that you're missing out on so many Pentatonix beautiful songs and arrangements, I really hope you get the chance to listen to some of them they're absolutely beautiful.
As I look at this 8 years later, I realize how much I miss Avi. I really like Matt and love what he brings to the group! But Avi has an 'edge', tone, and control to his voice that is really special.
I have often thought of Avi's voice as "Bel Canto Basso Profundo." I understand that the bell canto sound is usually attached to a tenor, but Avi's voice is so sonorous, it is way beyond exceptional. You do know that he was studying for an opera career when he agreed to join Pentatonix for their "Season 3- The Sing Off" competition, which, of course, they won, handily. Anyway, thanx for great commentary!
This version has been giving me goosebumps every time since it came out and was instantly my new favourite version.
Sad, powerful, nostalgic and more all balled into one.
I don't think anything was added. The sound that you pointed out is an inhaled tone that Kevin uses frequently, relatively easy to duplicate by holding your tongue against the palate and inhaling. As I'm sure you're aware, you can control the pitch of that using the shape of your mouth. Wonderful reaction. I've started to think that this version of Hallelujah is better than their official release, primarily because Avi's voice is not mixed into the back as it is in the studio version. In this one you can hear Avi at just about the same volume as everyone else.
I haven't heard this version. They are soooooo good. I love pentatonix. They are such great singers!
I don’t hear anything postproduction here. I see Kevin switching from vocals to beatboxing. Go watch again. You see him suck in, your reverse cymbals, and then beatboxing the bass drum sound.
Yes - Ben Folds commented on his reverse cymbals back on The Sing Off, when they first formed as a group.
All Kevin, just a bit or reverb on the mic
I enjoy your reactions, because you aren’t only an expert that knows what you’re talking about, but your pure joy at music performances done really well.
The "switch" in bass line is right when Avi starts singing his verse. If you watch and listen, just before Avi starts to sing his verse, you can hear Scott hit a higher note, something like ah-ah -ah, and if you watch Avi's body movement you can see that he is singing the da da dum (just as Christie's head moves out of frame), then as the camera swings around and Avi starts his verse you can see Scott start singing the da da dum (watch just before Scott moves from the Right side of Avi to the Left side of Avi as the camera moves. That is what it looks like to me. Avi sings the last da-da-dum before he starts his verse and Scott immediately picks up the da da dum as Avi begins to sing
I could be wrong, you are certainly more knowledgeable that I am but I think the sound you heard as Kirstin starts her verse was an slick inhale from Kevin. There may have been something else there but I have heard that same type of sound before, Adam Rupp from Home Free uses that type of sound in several videos.
Your enthusiasm for music is so contagious! The look on your face is just precious.
Probably won’t see this but would like to recommend
Avi Kaplan - Change on the Rise.
Home Free - Ring of Fire
Voiceplay - Daddy Sang Bass.
Your reaction to Mitch was just the purest form of Joy!
Another great demonstration of Scott’s lower range is “The Sound of Silence”!
I get goosebumps and teary eyes. Every. Single. Time.
Peace
Their version of bohemian rhapsody and daft punk are two of my favorite.
Amazingly enough, I’ve seen them perform this live and they sound EXACTLY like their studio performance. It’s incredible
What you may of heard that made you think it was added post production was Avi, who can sing two frequencies in unison. I think it is called over-tone, but I am not sure. Avi has demonstrated it often.
If you listen carefully you will notice an echo within the clap sound. That's definitely not made by a human voice. They used some supportive sounds/adjustments for sure. Nevertheless the arrangement is impressive and the best version of one of the best songs ever written.
chips7 nope, it’s Kevin. I’ve watched him do this live, and when you have a clear view of his mouth it’s very clear it’s him.
@@chips7 it is Kevin, but alot of reverb added to make it sound more echoy
@@chips7 Don't you know anybody who can make the Snapple Bottlecap pop sound? Guess what Kevin does for a living? Keep in mind, he is PTX's resident genius in a very real sense of the word.
Kevin definitely adds a lot of reverb. You just do Kchhhhhhhhhhh! instead of only Kh!, but of course better and with a lot, loooot of practice :D
Mitch has the most delicate power I've ever heard vocally.
Have you seen Scott and Mitch in their Superfruit vids? They and Kirstin, just goofing around, do a “Frozen “ compulation, and Mitch kills it!
when Mitch starts his solo and it hit you in the feels,your reaction got to me and punched me in the feels.
You and Tara Simon are in love with Mitch’s voice, but for me, Scott has the most versatile voice, best tone, and the biggest range.
mcstacia Mitch is their best singer, technically.
@@josuapangaribuan8981no he's not. Scott is. He always was from the start.
@@nikelodeon6852 well even the other menbers said that Mitch is the best singer and that he almost always stays on pitch. I think the reason why everybody, but especially vocal coachs like Mitch's voice so much is not because he sings so high, its because he sounds so clear doing it. His vocal cords are ao short for a male and that makes him so unique. I totally agree with you saying scott is an amazing singer but a lot of singers have amazing ranges and beautiful voices. There are more people out there who have the kind of voice Scott has than than people who have this naturally light and clear voice Mitch is blessed with. And please don't get me wrong I absolutely love Scott and the raspy, amazing voice he possess, I just wanted to point that out.
Nikhil Varghese Scott is not their best singer. Mitch rarely strains, and has a larger supported range. Mitch is much more agile, without the use of jaw tension. Mitch’s voice is connected all through his registers.
Okay, but Avi, though. ❤
Your love , passion and music intelligence for music is second to none. I cant watch anybody else's reaction videos anymore, just yours...thank you
Very nice arrangement. I enjoyed it.
I'll second the recommendations for Home Free. I was introduced to them with their version of Man of Constant Sorrow. They are also an a capella group. Cheers, Steve
Your videos showed up in my feed, and I'm sooo glad that they did. Not only are you extremely knowledgeable, and offer fantastic vocal insight to songs, but I love your expressions of pure joy when you hear beautiful music!!
That sound was Kevin. Using his inhale as a sound.
They are a treasure. They CREATED a commercially viable genre that streched every age group, not many can say that!
That last bass note by Avi is just sick.
I love how you geek out over the arrangements as much as you do the performances.
Kevin makes that sound all of the time live. I've seen them live 3 times! I love your reaction. So full of passion! Thank you from a true Pentaholic! (Please stop calling them The Pentatonix. It's just Pentatonix. Thank you.)
I can appreciate the difficulty of the 1st Soprano octaves Mitch sings. I did this part solo when our choir did this song at National contest when I was in high school. I have been a vocalist for 58 years. They are all so fantastic but Mitch’s voice is effortless. It flows out of his mouth like he is just breathing. This is by far my favorite group I’ve ever heard do this version of this beautiful song.
6:23 Only thing Pentatonix added was Kevin's effect on top of their 3 Grammy's. PTX is the real deal and should never be doubted.
There's something so satisfying watching someone feel strong good emotion.
Great reaction and review of this beautiful song. Have you heard their Grammy award winning arrangement of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy? If not, I'd love to see your reaction to that!
Aww, love seeing her in her element and just being thrilled.
By the way. Just an a FYI. You said “The Pentatonix”. There is no “the”. It’s just PENTATONIX.
Eeep! Sorry! I mistakenly called them The Pentatonix when listening to their first Christmas album, and it sometimes comes back. Thanks for catching it!
@@TheCharismaticVoice You wrote it that way, too, in the description box, but NOT in the title of your video. Sorry for my later comment on the same topic--I hadn't scrolled down this far yet.
janetranslates it’s funny how we all really notice it! Then it just sticks in our heads - you find yourself shaking your head to get rid of it! LOL. 😄🤗
@@caroleceres That's true. It's not the reactors' fault (or the TV host or whoever) for not knowing, but it really grates on our ears! Sometimes we Pentaholics are more sensitive on PTX's behalf than they are themselves!
I adore the passion in their voices, every time, chills ! Mitch has been tested, 6 octaves !
It's easier for me to hear Avi's part clearly in this one - you see him more than you do in the official video. Just seems like his part came through more clearly. Man, that's impressive.
I can’t believe I missed this reaction until today. I love when you react to acapella groups. I’ve listened to this version and the music video hundreds of times.
You did your usual great job, and I like how your face lights up when you really enjoy some part.
Would love to see you react to their cover of Sound of Silence, it's amazing!!
Love your comments, excitement & analysis! Spot on!
I love Kirsten's vibrato and miss Avi from the group he was a killer bass and in the song he kills it as not a normal bass you think would do at that octave
Your enthusiasm/smile/reaction to this is so infectious. I am so glad I found this channel. Those breaths of joy at the end of phrases just touch my heart. ✌❤
Mitch is a rare breed. There aren't many counter-tenors knocking about that can perform at that level. What do you get if you have basically what amounts to a Mezzo Soprano, but with a mans voice and a mans lung capacity to provide rock-solid support? - a Mitch :)
Well, the same could be said of Bass vocalists who can perform at that level. Or Beatboxers.
@@jamescurfman3284 Both of which are two-a-penny in the music World. How many 5 octave counter-tenors knocking about that can sing up to an A5?
@@Kopp203 How many Genius-Level Beatboxers are out there who are ALSO capable of speaking SEVERAL languages, playing multiple instruments and not only producing but also arranging new material? KO does it all. You call that two-for-a-penny? I wanna know where you grew up and who you know.
And true Bass vocalists are NOT two for a penny at all; they are all actually really rare, ESPECIALLY those who can do the things that Avi can do. Who tf do you think you are slamming here? Are YOU a Multiple-Grammy-winner?
Listen, I can TOTALLY understand about being a fan of Mitch and his vocal capabilities, he's TRULY AMAZING, no doubts about that. But would a REAL fan actually go slamming Mitch's FRIENDS or their capabilities? Come on, now. Calm down just a little bit and think about what you printed here. You REALLY think that Mitch is the ONLY one who matters? It's PENTATONIX, which means FIVE people, not One-Plus-Four-Spares. They all work TOGETHER as a unit.
@@jamescurfman3284 I'm not sure where you're going with this and think you're a little confused. My post was in response to Elizabeth's comments from 8:07. I'm not dissing the other members of PTX, at all, in fact I love the group as a whole and will be the first one to fanboy about how awesome they all are at each of their respective vocal abilities. I'm a huge fan of both Avi and Kevin and have followed Avi quite closely since he left PTX. The comment was just a general observation on Mitch and how rare true counter-tenors are in popular music. My further comments in response to your post were also just a general observation that comparitively speaking, there are far more bass singers and beatboxers knocking about than there are counter-tenors, especially ones that can perform at Mitch's level. That is not downplaying Avi or Kevin and I can only surmise that english is not your first language, because I'm struggling to comprehend how you could read what I wrote and translate it into an attack on ANY other member of the group.
I don't know my brain never connected that if Avi is singing, someone else has to be providing the bass. Following this video, I immediately went back to the song to find the moment where Scott takes over. I now appreciate Avi and Scott so much more, and recognize it in other songs too where Scott takes the Bass Line....ahhh...love it❤ I am so loving and appreciating all your videos and learning so much more about technique. My heart belongs to Accapella music, and I have deep roots in life around music and singing. Singing again has been a life saver during pandemic times and you are now a part of that, so thank you! And Hallelujah ❤
Great reaction and analysis, as usual! ;) As I already said in the live chat, I suggest you to react to "Voctave", an amazing a cappella group, their "Disney Princess Medley" is awesome!
So excited about this.
As a bass, this is one of my 'go to' songs when I want to sing along... the play between the bass and treble clef is just amazing! Thanks for sharing this... ❤
I'd love a reaction to more Floor Jansen, or even better yet Floor Jansen singing with Epica performing Sancta Terra.
I LOVE their music and I love a capella music.
More Nightwish! I need to see your Floorgasm Face again. 😉
Storytime
Ever Dream
Romanticide
Amaranthe
Ghost Love Score
All from the Wacken 2013 show. This version of GLS will REALLY blow your socks off, Elizabeth! 😋
More Floor coming this week, and Nightwish plus Floor again soon as well.
Your facial expressions and signs of pure joy in your eyes look just like a Disney princess
That extra you heard was Kevin if you go back and rewatch it, watch Kevins face carefully and you will see his mouth making those noises
Anessa Lyn you are correct. He’s demonstrated it before.
@@justinperry13 Beatboxing only works with a hand held mic. sorry to burst the bubble.
Anessa, Justin, apparently Michael is a non-believer. Could one of you please post a link to that demonstration video? I would like to see it myself. Don't worry. I know he can do it but I just haven't seen that video. KO is AWESOME!
@@michaelbradley7529 lolwut that's not true
@@michaelbradley7529 Had to fetch it but here's one of my favorite songs that has kevin with a more complex part and there's only one mic, ripped from a livestream lol th-cam.com/video/8r3B9j2WF0k/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for doing this reaction video of the Pentatonix. I love this group. I was able, with my daughter and her friend, to enjoy them in person in San Francisco about 5 years ago. (My daughter and I were also able to sing together in the Fresno Community Chorus Master Chorale recently for a couple seasons). Thank-you again for sharing your insights and excitement for this music!
Just found this channel last week when you reacted to Ghost Love Score. (Loved it BTW) So happy to see you check out PTX as well. Now if you can add Home Free and Voiceplay you'll have covered my favorite Aca-trio.
I love watching reactions vids, but usually skip through them talking. But this... hits it all on the nose, it’s not over reacting, it’s honest and real commentary. With real emotion behind her comments. LOVE.