Take 10 glee-club boys, blend in a beat, add a twist of harmony, and serve up new a cappella album “With A Twist,” released by Indiana group Straight No Chaser April 13.
SNC hit off this album by combining Jason Mraz’s hit “I’m Yours” with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” making for a great medley of music. It flowed easily between both pieces as if they were written for each other.
Track seven was another great blend of two songs that ordinarily wouldn’t go together. They used “You and Me and The Bottle Makes Three,” by swing stars Big Bad Voodoo Daddies, and “Single Ladies” by Beyonce.?
These two sounded surprisingly awesome together, but “Single Ladies” could have gotten a little more play. Even so, the way these songs were presented was unexpected and it will make you want to get up and dance.
The album showcased their various talents. They had certain songs that astounded with their use of vocal beats and others that focused on their harmony.
Their finale piece was a remake of “One Voice” and featured Barry Manilow as a guest performer. The way they layered their voices in this song gave the effect of a whole choir singing different parts at once. It was slow and slightly melancholy, which counteracted the more upbeat dance songs.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” was done better even than the original by Frankie Valli. Soloist Jerome Collins rocket-launched into the chorus, making this version the one people will want to sing at the top of their lungs when they think nobody is listening.
It’s hard to believe that SNC did not use any instruments in some of their songs. In track four, titled “Fix You,” the beat consisted of various stomps and vocals, but studio effects such as echoes were placed on them which made them seem like a real drum kit was used. It was incredible how certain sounds, especially in the background, sounded exactly like instruments.
In their remake of “You’re My Best Friend,” by Queen, each of the 10 members had a solo during a different part of the song, showing off the talent of all the members as well as showing some variation from the one or two lead vocalists. They also were able to re-create the classic rock feel of the music without guitars or drums.
Their remake of “Joy To The World,” originally by Three Dog Night, was one of the very few disappointing songs in the album. Though it was a twist on the old song, it didn’t have nearly the fun or pizazz the other has. Still, 10 out of twelve is pretty good for an a cappella cover group.
“With A Twist” is a great way to experience fantastic songs in a new way while enjoying some incredible vocal talent. This is an album you’ll want to take straight, with no chaser.