Love how you pointed out Avi's ability to express emotion. PTX recognized that too. When Scott wrote Light in the Hallway for his little nephew, they assumed Scott would sing lead, but he said that even when he was writing it, he heard Avi's voice in his head...because of that expressiveness.
I like Matt’s voice, and I think stylistically and personality wise he’s a better match with ptx, but his bass doesn’t have the emotion of avi’s. Few voices do.
@@wvob6752 - I agree he is the best bass. I just don’t think he wanted to do pop music, and he didn’t have the same interest in those songs, so it makes Matt a better fit.
@@tanyanguyen3704 I think Matt's more of a baritone, with a range similar to Scott's. I think they're roles could be interchangeable, where as Avi os one of those monster Bass singers like Tim and Geoff that people find themost memorable. In a perfect world, both Matt and Avi would be members of the group.
@@rainofkhandaq6678 - I agree fully. His voice is not as rich or complex as Avis is. But really, I’ve not hear any/many who have Avis tones. But for a variety of reasons, I still think Matt fits PTX better, and avi has his own place, where he can express his style, his range, and his Tate’s more fully.
I just love how seamless the transition between Avi and Scott is when Scott takes over for the bass when Avi is singing the solo. It's insane to me how incredible Scott's range it.
A couple people have already recommended Avi's, "Change on the Rise." I second this. Also, PTX's cover of, "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," would be a great way to show how Matt does as their current bass. Avi and Matt are both wonderful vocalists.
Avi does have a beautiful, round tone to his voice, it has a soft richness in his upper register and of course, an absolute booming quality in his lower register. Mitch also has an incredibly clear, round tone in his mid-register, he sings with such ease. What I find really impressive about Mitch in this song (the Official Video, I am talking about) is how he pulls back on the volume on his last note just after belting, that last note is soft, clear and entirely done with ease, no strain at all even though it is very high
For me, this group managed to balance styles to form this sound with near perfection. Scott has a voice which reminds us of boy bands, Avi seems to come directly out of plays like Les Misérables or Hamilton, Kirsten’s country feel emanates through her vocals, Mitch’s voice pierces straight out of cathedral like music, and Kevin binds it all together with his amazing beat boxing.
I adore watching people who truly understand music react to Pentatonix, and I'm listening to every word you're saying, but also: Ma'am. You are absolutely gorgeous, and you're an explosion of beautiful color and light, and well done, you. Stunning.
I really enjoy the Vocal Coaches reaction to this song. They really don't miss a trick and they are the most impressed with them because they understand more that anyone else what it took to create this.
I was glad to hear you mention Scott's voice being flexible. Because he covers all the bass parts when Avi is soloing, and covers the tenor parts when Mitch is singing. His vocal range in a group is phenomenal.
I adore that you just sort of fan-girled through most of this video while also speaking technically about the arrangement and their voices-so much better than if you had just spoken as if it was something you’d gone over before. Also, if you want to hear some of Avi’s high notes, I very much recommend his original, “Otherside.” It’s very ethereal-haunting and beautiful, and the video is an excellent companion to it. His original music is very different from what he did with Pentatonix and I’d love to see your reaction to his own sound! “Change on the Rise” will put you back in his low range, and it might be advisable to listen to that before “Otherside” just to see the change in his style. Thank you for being not just a vocal coach, but a fan! It makes these so much more fun to watch!
I also love how you can see on screen that Scott is taking over the bass line when Avi is singing. Over the years I've seen people debate on if they layered Avi or if Scott took over the bass, but here you can see it clearly that Scott is doing the bass in that section.
As a sound guy , I've never hear such praises from anyone. Even if we mix it perfectly still the praises will go to the performers and if there's is a lil bit of mistakes in mix,you know the blame goes to whom. But I'm so blessed to hear that from you, I hope everyone will appreciate more of our professions.
Very much appreciated your reaction, you caught a couple of things I have not heard other reactors comment on. First, you used the adjective, “round”, to describe Avi’s tone during his upper register solo. I appreciated that because when I used to sing in an a cappella choir our director was forever chastising us to sing in a “rounded” tone avoiding stridency which would stick out in an a cappella setting and ruin the blend. And you are only the 3rd commenter I have heard mention that falling riff directly after Kirstie’s solo. That riff serves to bring the listener back down to earth after Kirstie’s massive belt and prepare us for Mitch’s gentle entrance into his solo. Great arranging! Finally, I enjoyed your discussion on what is happening with a counter-tenor’s vocal folds (shorter, thinner) that makes it possible for them (and only them, men, are you listening?) to produce that kind of tone in that particular vocal range. Just loved all you had to say and am now going Pentatonix surfing for more of your reactions ❤😊
As a percussionist, loads of people say, “you just hit things in rhythm” “you just play the drum with a stick” etc etc etc. the thing not many people talk about is that yes, we do “just hit the drum”, but we also have to learn different techniques for many many different percussion instruments, grips, and techniques.
Yeah. “People who stand around with the real musicians.” Until they see and hear the work that goes into it. I’ll never forget playing chimes in piece where each of my hands was operating in a different time signature, playing in a different chord, and the conductor waved the ensemble quiet and had them just watch me for a minute. It felt like the first time a lot of them noticed that gee, I guess the percussionists are musicians, too.
As a band teacher, I kept trying to tell future “drummers” that they, too, needed to learn various techniques. It’s amazing how many dropped when they realized that the drummer rarely slammed the drums with their full strength.
So... if you are indeed a sound engineer, tell me: in your professional opinion, was this genuinely live? I have serious doubts myself. First, the microphones. Even the best head-mounted mic can't get the kind of intense proximity effect Scott had to have been using when subbing for Avi on bass in Avi's verse. And they _certainly_ can't capture the thump of a beatboxer's kick drum while completely outside of the air stream that produces it, can it? This performance sounded way too good, with what seemed to me to be good mic technique all around. Only... there's no such thing as mic technique, good or otherwise, with a head-mounted boom mic. It's just kind of there, and that's that. Yes, I know the engineer can change the gain etc. during the performance, but... I have serious doubts that that would be enough to produce that level of studio-quality sound. Even a hand-held vocal mic would have difficulty doing that. Second, if you look closely, during Scott's opening solo, his beard is scratching against his microphone _a lot._ Not just the boom, either; when he tilts his head upward, the mic itself is rubbing right against his beard. To my knowledge, there's no way to magically remove the sounds that should result. Even if it was done in post-production, the sound quality of the remaining sound would be severely degraded in my experience. Of course, this is no insult to Pentatonix. It probably wasn't even their decision. IIRC, this was broadcast on ABC? So it would've been the studio carrying, recording, broadcasting, and paying for it, that would've made the decision. Even Dimash has had venues and broadcasters choose to dub in pre-recorded audio, such as in his Kremlin concert, to make absolutely sure everything went smoothly, with no embarrassing technical difficulties. I love PTX, believe me. I watched The Sing-Off from Season 1, and was already a fan. I saw PTX's first ever public performance right when it aired, and I've been a fan ever since. I know they sound great live! But... real live performances, you can tell. This just didn't sound like the real deal to me. Am I wrong?
It's so great that you're a big fan Pentatonix! I've been a fan for about as long as you, as well! And Avi! Avi was always my favorite. I really love listening to him weave throughout the song at the end. His voice is so...words fail me on how to describe it. Lastly, I always appreciate your commentary on the arrangement of the music. Just nice to have things brought to my attention that I didn't think about before.
Like you I LOVE Pentatonix. They have taken a cappella into the stratosphere and broken the mold. They always make their covers fresh and personal. I'm hard to please when it comes to covers, but they always upgrade the original.
11:30- the end,everything Avi does in that window makes me cry every time,it's just so perfect,poignant,resonant..it hits my soul with an aural rapturous splendour.
The reason why, I believe, they work so well is that they all arrange together and allow everybody to shine. And of course as you stated they are all equally amazing. Love them and I am so happy that I had the possibility to see them live as well. Thanks for this one Julia!
I hadn’t heard their version before this. I think Hallelujah is an extremely overplayed song. That said, I HAVE CHILLS ALL OVER. How damn good can they be 😭 Thank you, Julia, for another great video. I love your channel. Lots of love from Mexico City!
Kevin...Kevin...Kevin The Drummer/Percussionist is the backbone of any musical ensemble... They are the roadmap to the group, for without them there would be chaos... Thank you for acknowledging him...
Excellent breakdown, delivered by a gorgeous ginger who really knows her stuff. Thank you! The beauty and strength of this group is that each member has total control, and an incredibly wide range that allows them to cover for each other and blend in harmonies that other groups can only dream of.
Got onto PTX from when they were on "the sing off". Still loving what they do. And for you Julia.. thx for actually reacting (no editing yourself into boredom) and feeding us some knowledge. Keep it up. I think your doing a great job :)
Your comments on this song having a feel of somebody who is broken and alone, and love being both a positive thing and a potentially dangerous thing is my understanding of what Leonard Cohen was going with this song. It's always bewildered me why people (Pentatonix included) include it as a Christmas song. That is not the feel I get from this piece, no matter how beautifully done (and PTX did a truly phenomenal job with this song). Great reaction. Would like to foot-stomp the suggestion below to do Avi and Peter Hollens in "Black is the Color of my True Love's Hair". Avi is a beast in that song.
Kirstie has to have a bright timber to her voice to be able to cut through all the strong male voices, and she really knows how to use it. Even in her lower register she can really belt it out. Mitch amazes me on his delivery. It seems so effortless and clean, like it's just another walk in the park. Scott just runs away with the climax of the song and puts so much feeling in it while Avi's bass line seems to lift him higher into the song. You really get the feeling of the lyrics and the story they tell. The high and low emotions that are portrayed by Scott, Avi and the rest of the group in their back up vocals. It is amazing how each one is very individualistic and yet so cohesive and tight when they come together. This is what makes them so far above any other a cappella group. They set the bar so high and I think it will be quite some time before someone else tops them.
So nice to hear the comments about Kirstie, the word Bright is.lerfectr. You can hear her above the guys,.so crystal clear. Not in competition with Mitch but perfect compliment! Always surrised when. peop!e can't tell who's singing certain parts, Kirstie or Mitch she's so.crisp and just soars, Mitch just "is" often higher but not as sharp as she. Love them all, they were meant to be together!
I love Kirstin’s voice and I really appreciate you pointing out what she actually does for this group, I feel she sometimes get overlooked. This was the first song I heard from them and absolutely fell in love with this group
Now go do Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) from PTX. Reactors are crying real tears, even big macho dudes. The arrangement is possibly their best ever (and hey have grammys already for arrangement) and the performance is just awe inspiring. And the video itself is filmed in a real life beautiful location.
Pentatonix is fantastic and you, Julia are fantastic too. Your description and analysis is totally on point. Their visual and audio performance is exquisite but when you describe what’s happening, it’s like a Monet painting. You seriously paint an Impressionist type of landscape on a canvas with your words. I could go on and on. It’s been a long time since I’ve been around or heard anyone else who feels the same way I do about music. Thank you for that. 💕🙏💗☃️🎄You are a gift 🎁
This is about my 5th time watching this react. Lol. I seem to pick up on different things you comment on each time..... I absolutely love how you highlighted Avi near the end. Several times in the chorus thru this song, he is kinda "hung out" in the chorus. Everyone else is doing their runs, then there's Avi rumbling a ""lujah" Amazing. Also, I picked up on that little harmonic by Mitch at the end. It's a bit more.peonounced in their video vs this live version. But still perfect. One more thing: I am peobly just some crazy old fart Texan, but I kinda "crush" on certain reactors, and you are definitely one. Watching this react made me smile so much,, and your emotion in the Johnny Cash "Hurt" video broke my heart. Love you so much being genuine and showing much love and appreciation for music! Thank you!
Avi is 🔥🔥🔥, no need to apologize for appreciating his amazingness!!! You should definitely look into his solo work now.... Change on the Rise Otherside Aberdeen I'll Get By ......many more
Loved the reaction. I'm always interested in the technical parts of their arrangements. As an Avi fan I liked your reaction to him in particular. Have you seen "Gold" yet? It's a live recording and Mitch is going up and down his whole register so flawlessly it's crazy. The whole arrangement is great and everyone can be separated in their parts.
I am SO GLAD you did this one, even if you have heard it a thousand times before. Still a gorgeous performance and ANYBODY who sings live should be totally envious of how this turned out! PTX are the real deal and they have been since their inception. I am also glad you are a Pentaholic! Happy New Year! Luv ya!
Pentatonix’s “Wall Of Sound” is absolutely extraordinary! Oh, and that 3rd ledger-space bass clef Bb that Avi sings at the end! Well, it’s just EVERYTHING! The shower of overtones created by that foundational Bb simply brings goosebumps!
Kevin's jacket probably has a mic at the top of where the collars overlap - close enough to get the slaps, but with a sound floor to prevent movement rustling getting picked up.
What I still can't comprehend is how their live performances are barely distinguishable from their pre-recorded ones. I can hear the slight differences, but that's only because I listen to PTX (and home free) daily but they are so nominal they might as well be the same. Also Julia I LOVE your reactions they are amazing, they honestly make my day so much better❤❤❤ Keep doing what you do, and keep making us smile every day💞
First, as always, You are so beautiful!!! Love your comments, you put a lot of effort into pointing things out and explaining what you are reacting to (love your facial expressions) because for the average listener it is not always apparent what you are hearing. It is very helpful when you go back and replay and explain what you are listening to and hearing. Always appreciate your videos and your talent, and of course your beauty. Thanks for another great reaction video. Don't forget Home Free LOL A suggestion: I know Christmas and the Holidays are almost over but, what I think would be interesting would be for you to do a compare reaction. I know Pentatonix and Voice Play have done covers of "Your A Mean One, Mr Grinch". I'd like to see you do a two in one video, watching both covers and then at the end kind of do a quick, "Which Did You Like the Most? Think about it.
A good way to explain what Kirsten is doing is that she provides the framework during their group parts. Kevin and Avi (now Matt) provide the foundation, Kirsten then provides the framework and Mitch and Scott then add the finishing touches.
As a musician, I like this live version better than the video! You can see/hear differences, subtle as they might be! Again, that contrabass 3rd ledger-space Bb illuminating the overtones throughout that last chord! Fire!
They are fantastic! I have heard that Kevin has special gear under his coat to be able to sound out the beats as well as in his shoes for the stomp sound. Like you said he is consistent! Please analysis Bohemian Rhapsody! Thanks for reacting!
Very nice breakdown of all the voices thank you. In Avi Kaplan's case this is higher in his voice. Have you, or if not would you, react to his solo "Change on the Rise" please? Yes the background vocals are all his. A cappella has of course been left behind for Avi as a solo artist although quite a bit is done acoustically and his backup band is all drawn from a cappella bands so their vocals are very good. There is an official video and also live recorded. For live I would recommend the Amsterdam performance. Very different performance uses of the same song between the two. Thank you.
How about that “Wall Of Sound”? That blows me away-always! And that coda with the end chord anchored by that contrabass 3rd ledger-space Bb by Avi the basso profundo! Those overtones killed me!
Amazing video as always! Love me some PTX have not had the opportunity to see them live yet but i am so excited when I can. I will suggest again if you are looking for something else to react to, Shawn James gaslight session his flow or through the valley. both recorded live and would love to hear you break down one of his performances!
Would love to hear your take on Protest The Hero - Sequoia Throne and also Oathbreaker 10:56/Second Son of R. Both songs have a great contrast in vocal style
Mitch is a tenor with supported head voice and well developed mix. Countertenor is not even a voice type, it’s an opera term used to mark soprano range parts sing by male singers. A countertenor part can be performed by any male voice type - a tenor, a baritone or even a bass, just as long as they have good falsetto and can reach soprano level notes
I'm surprised you didn't mention Scott's base during Avi's solo at 03:24. Scott went from high baritone to sounding just like Avi when Avi himself was occupied doing the solo. Scott's got range!
Stunning performance, as usual :-). Both from Pentatonix and from Julia :-). Interesting take on how Kirsty uses her vocal nuance amongst a sea of testosterone...well ok AND Mitch, Mr. Perfection. :-) Take as many "Avi, bass appreciation moments" as you want miss !!! Kevin also has perfect pitch, and his cello playing is world class as you mentioned.
I think Kevin had 3 mics. I think he had one on his face for singing, a lapel to get the chest tapping, and one on his pant leg for the stomp. But I am not sure how they would control bleeding between the mics in the mix.
@@Mokey56001 Nothing so tricky is needed. The whole track is prerecorded. They're lip syncing this performance like they do for many songs during holiday specials.
@@pearlp1197 They very frequently lip sync. In their music videos, in all their holiday specials, and on tour. PTX tours heavily, want to preserve their voices, and always put out the best-sounding show possible. ruclips.net/video/pjZ50sdOKTA/видео.html
Thank you and I think you are spot on Julia! You always are it seems! Misty Mountains with Peter Hollens ft. Tim Faust... thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I would LOVE to hear you react to Walk of the Earth and Father We Go (the version in a warehouse where they do it more Accapella) I just can't get over how amazing Sarah sounds when she belts. That or Kesha's Praying (another one that just gives me feels every time) p.s as a sound engineer it means so much to hear you praise our trade! the respect is real, I love watching your videos, not only are the fascinating and educational, I just love your reactions to these amazing singers. Your passion is clear and comes through unfiltered when you listen to music. It's wonderful to watch.
Hi, Julia! It's great to finally get to see PTX here!! This was really fun!! They recently did a collaboration with a Japanese group called Little Glee Monster. I think you'd have fun checking some of their stuff. Thanks for this and Happy New Year in advance!!
You love Avi, I love you. As simple as that 😁 Ok, joking aside, I liked your reaction. Avi's tone is wrapping and emotional for sure and good for a song like this, lyricswise*. And yes, Kevin is marvellous! Love them all. I would also like to say that Matt is great as well and fits the group's sound perfectly. I miss Avi in PTX, but I'm so happy he feels more comfortable with his own music (which is fantastic, btw) and they've found a phenomenal addition. It turned out fine 😉🍃 * another perfect singer for this is Myles Kennedy. So much emotions when he sings it.
I said this elsewhere, but IMO she needs to watch at least one song that does a better job of showing off Chance before she watches Mayday. Something like Can't Outrun You or Yours or maybe Think a Little Less.
![Opera Singer Reacts to Pentatonix - Bohemian Rhapsody [Queen]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/f3f94UXjS8g/mqdefault.jpg)
Love how you pointed out Avi's ability to express emotion. PTX recognized that too. When Scott wrote Light in the Hallway for his little nephew, they assumed Scott would sing lead, but he said that even when he was writing it, he heard Avi's voice in his head...because of that expressiveness.
I like Matt’s voice, and I think stylistically and personality wise he’s a better match with ptx, but his bass doesn’t have the emotion of avi’s. Few voices do.
@@tanyanguyen3704 We can agree to disagree. Matt's a fantastic singer but Avi was the best with PTX. He and Mitch had the best voices of PTX
@@wvob6752 - I agree he is the best bass. I just don’t think he wanted to do pop music, and he didn’t have the same interest in those songs, so it makes Matt a better fit.
@@tanyanguyen3704 I think Matt's more of a baritone, with a range similar to Scott's. I think they're roles could be interchangeable, where as Avi os one of those monster Bass singers like Tim and Geoff that people find themost memorable.
In a perfect world, both Matt and Avi would be members of the group.
@@rainofkhandaq6678 - I agree fully. His voice is not as rich or complex as Avis is. But really, I’ve not hear any/many who have Avis tones. But for a variety of reasons, I still think Matt fits PTX better, and avi has his own place, where he can express his style, his range, and his Tate’s more fully.
Thank you SO MUCH for writing and talking instead of pausing every 30 seconds to talk. I’m subbing off of this reaction alone.
As a "sound guy" I'll just say Thank You for recognizing us. Saw them in Kansas City (USA) a few years ago and they were spot on every note.
I just love how seamless the transition between Avi and Scott is when Scott takes over for the bass when Avi is singing the solo. It's insane to me how incredible Scott's range it.
A couple people have already recommended Avi's, "Change on the Rise." I second this.
Also, PTX's cover of, "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch," would be a great way to show how Matt does as their current bass. Avi and Matt are both wonderful vocalists.
PTX's cover of, "God Rest Ye Gentlemen," is solid to show their talent.
These guys and home free are just on another level.
Mitch’s voice in particular never fails to give me goosebumps. Love it
I’ve heard them sing Hallelujah hundreds of times but I still get goosebumps and find myself shaking my head in disbelief at their musical greatness.
Of the basses I've heard, Avi has to my ear the most beautiful timbre.
Laughs in Geoff Castellucci
Out of all the basses I've heard Avi and Tim have the best bass voice and tones.
AGREEEEE
@@goiserrrhd6844 i like Geoff's voice a lot, but i agree with harmbooji - Avi's voice sounds "better".
Avi does have a beautiful, round tone to his voice, it has a soft richness in his upper register and of course, an absolute booming quality in his lower register. Mitch also has an incredibly clear, round tone in his mid-register, he sings with such ease. What I find really impressive about Mitch in this song (the Official Video, I am talking about) is how he pulls back on the volume on his last note just after belting, that last note is soft, clear and entirely done with ease, no strain at all even though it is very high
For me, this group managed to balance styles to form this sound with near perfection. Scott has a voice which reminds us of boy bands, Avi seems to come directly out of plays like Les Misérables or Hamilton, Kirsten’s country feel emanates through her vocals, Mitch’s voice pierces straight out of cathedral like music, and Kevin binds it all together with his amazing beat boxing.
To me, Kirsten leans more into Latina than country
I adore watching people who truly understand music react to Pentatonix, and I'm listening to every word you're saying, but also:
Ma'am. You are absolutely gorgeous, and you're an explosion of beautiful color and light, and well done, you. Stunning.
You are underestimating Mitch. All members of Pentatonix are incredible!
I really enjoy the Vocal Coaches reaction to this song. They really don't miss a trick and they are the most impressed with them because they understand more that anyone else what it took to create this.
I was glad to hear you mention Scott's voice being flexible. Because he covers all the bass parts when Avi is soloing, and covers the tenor parts when Mitch is singing. His vocal range in a group is phenomenal.
I adore that you just sort of fan-girled through most of this video while also speaking technically about the arrangement and their voices-so much better than if you had just spoken as if it was something you’d gone over before. Also, if you want to hear some of Avi’s high notes, I very much recommend his original, “Otherside.” It’s very ethereal-haunting and beautiful, and the video is an excellent companion to it. His original music is very different from what he did with Pentatonix and I’d love to see your reaction to his own sound! “Change on the Rise” will put you back in his low range, and it might be advisable to listen to that before “Otherside” just to see the change in his style. Thank you for being not just a vocal coach, but a fan! It makes these so much more fun to watch!
That bass-switch from Avi to Scott.. It was so clean..
It's flawless. I was listening and looking for it, still took me multiple run throughs to catch when it happened.
it likely was a backing track - at least most prominently.
The dude doing that beat and banging his chest is absolutely on point at all times too!!!
Do more of Pentatonix LIVE ..... it’s incredible. Look for the GOLD video
Oh to have this talent. So wonderful they can bring smiles through their voices
I also love how you can see on screen that Scott is taking over the bass line when Avi is singing. Over the years I've seen people debate on if they layered Avi or if Scott took over the bass, but here you can see it clearly that Scott is doing the bass in that section.
we can see Scott, but we cant be sure who we're hearing ;)
As a sound guy , I've never hear such praises from anyone. Even if we mix it perfectly still the praises will go to the performers and if there's is a lil bit of mistakes in mix,you know the blame goes to whom.
But I'm so blessed to hear that from you, I hope everyone will appreciate more of our professions.
You, geeking out, as they perform is the reason I love watching you.
Blows my mind. Like music but got so much into freestyle and this type of music is simply mesmerizing IMO
Very much appreciated your reaction, you caught a couple of things I have not heard other reactors comment on. First, you used the adjective, “round”, to describe Avi’s tone during his upper register solo. I appreciated that because when I used to sing in an a cappella choir our director was forever chastising us to sing in a “rounded” tone avoiding stridency which would stick out in an a cappella setting and ruin the blend. And you are only the 3rd commenter I have heard mention that falling riff directly after Kirstie’s solo. That riff serves to bring the listener back down to earth after Kirstie’s massive belt and prepare us for Mitch’s gentle entrance into his solo. Great arranging! Finally, I enjoyed your discussion on what is happening with a counter-tenor’s vocal folds (shorter, thinner) that makes it possible for them (and only them, men, are you listening?) to produce that kind of tone in that particular vocal range. Just loved all you had to say and am now going Pentatonix surfing for more of your reactions ❤😊
I would recommend the duet between Avi and Peter Hollens with "Black Is The Color Of My True Love's Hair".
Yes! This is money!
As a percussionist, loads of people say, “you just hit things in rhythm” “you just play the drum with a stick” etc etc etc. the thing not many people talk about is that yes, we do “just hit the drum”, but we also have to learn different techniques for many many different percussion instruments, grips, and techniques.
Yeah. “People who stand around with the real musicians.” Until they see and hear the work that goes into it. I’ll never forget playing chimes in piece where each of my hands was operating in a different time signature, playing in a different chord, and the conductor waved the ensemble quiet and had them just watch me for a minute. It felt like the first time a lot of them noticed that gee, I guess the percussionists are musicians, too.
They are probably not orchestral players, they would never say that.
As a band teacher, I kept trying to tell future “drummers” that they, too, needed to learn various techniques. It’s amazing how many dropped when they realized that the drummer rarely slammed the drums with their full strength.
We engineers thank you for the recognition!
So... if you are indeed a sound engineer, tell me: in your professional opinion, was this genuinely live? I have serious doubts myself.
First, the microphones. Even the best head-mounted mic can't get the kind of intense proximity effect Scott had to have been using when subbing for Avi on bass in Avi's verse. And they _certainly_ can't capture the thump of a beatboxer's kick drum while completely outside of the air stream that produces it, can it? This performance sounded way too good, with what seemed to me to be good mic technique all around. Only... there's no such thing as mic technique, good or otherwise, with a head-mounted boom mic. It's just kind of there, and that's that. Yes, I know the engineer can change the gain etc. during the performance, but... I have serious doubts that that would be enough to produce that level of studio-quality sound. Even a hand-held vocal mic would have difficulty doing that.
Second, if you look closely, during Scott's opening solo, his beard is scratching against his microphone _a lot._ Not just the boom, either; when he tilts his head upward, the mic itself is rubbing right against his beard. To my knowledge, there's no way to magically remove the sounds that should result. Even if it was done in post-production, the sound quality of the remaining sound would be severely degraded in my experience.
Of course, this is no insult to Pentatonix. It probably wasn't even their decision. IIRC, this was broadcast on ABC? So it would've been the studio carrying, recording, broadcasting, and paying for it, that would've made the decision. Even Dimash has had venues and broadcasters choose to dub in pre-recorded audio, such as in his Kremlin concert, to make absolutely sure everything went smoothly, with no embarrassing technical difficulties.
I love PTX, believe me. I watched The Sing-Off from Season 1, and was already a fan. I saw PTX's first ever public performance right when it aired, and I've been a fan ever since. I know they sound great live! But... real live performances, you can tell. This just didn't sound like the real deal to me. Am I wrong?
It's so great that you're a big fan Pentatonix! I've been a fan for about as long as you, as well!
And Avi! Avi was always my favorite. I really love listening to him weave throughout the song at the end. His voice is so...words fail me on how to describe it.
Lastly, I always appreciate your commentary on the arrangement of the music. Just nice to have things brought to my attention that I didn't think about before.
Like you I LOVE Pentatonix. They have taken a cappella into the stratosphere and broken the mold. They always make their covers fresh and personal. I'm hard to please when it comes to covers, but they always upgrade the original.
11:30- the end,everything Avi does in that window makes me cry every time,it's just so perfect,poignant,resonant..it hits my soul with an aural rapturous splendour.
The reason why, I believe, they work so well is that they all arrange together and allow everybody to shine. And of course as you stated they are all equally amazing. Love them and I am so happy that I had the possibility to see them live as well. Thanks for this one Julia!
If you want your mind blown by Kevin, check out his solo cover of “Down”. It will absolutely blow you away.
kevin, from peńtetonix doing "down"
I hadn’t heard their version before this. I think Hallelujah is an extremely overplayed song. That said, I HAVE CHILLS ALL OVER. How damn good can they be 😭
Thank you, Julia, for another great video. I love your channel. Lots of love from Mexico City!
Kevin...Kevin...Kevin The Drummer/Percussionist is the backbone of any musical ensemble... They are the roadmap to the group, for without them there would be chaos... Thank you for acknowledging him...
Excellent breakdown, delivered by a gorgeous ginger who really knows her stuff. Thank you! The beauty and strength of this group is that each member has total control, and an incredibly wide range that allows them to cover for each other and blend in harmonies that other groups can only dream of.
Avi's background when Mitch is singing is outstanding.
Got onto PTX from when they were on "the sing off". Still loving what they do. And for you Julia.. thx for actually reacting (no editing yourself into boredom) and feeding us some knowledge. Keep it up. I think your doing a great job :)
Your comments on this song having a feel of somebody who is broken and alone, and love being both a positive thing and a potentially dangerous thing is my understanding of what Leonard Cohen was going with this song. It's always bewildered me why people (Pentatonix included) include it as a Christmas song. That is not the feel I get from this piece, no matter how beautifully done (and PTX did a truly phenomenal job with this song). Great reaction. Would like to foot-stomp the suggestion below to do Avi and Peter Hollens in "Black is the Color of my True Love's Hair". Avi is a beast in that song.
Yes! That’s what I get from this song “love being both a positive thing and a potentially dangerous thing”. Or being in love against your own will.
Kirstie has to have a bright timber to her voice to be able to cut through all the strong male voices, and she really knows how to use it. Even in her lower register she can really belt it out. Mitch amazes me on his delivery. It seems so effortless and clean, like it's just another walk in the park. Scott just runs away with the climax of the song and puts so much feeling in it while Avi's bass line seems to lift him higher into the song. You really get the feeling of the lyrics and the story they tell. The high and low emotions that are portrayed by Scott, Avi and the rest of the group in their back up vocals. It is amazing how each one is very individualistic and yet so cohesive and tight when they come together. This is what makes them so far above any other a cappella group. They set the bar so high and I think it will be quite some time before someone else tops them.
Good Lord woman, your smile is absolutely mesmerizing. You're like an angel.
So nice to hear the comments about Kirstie, the word Bright is.lerfectr. You can hear her above the guys,.so crystal clear. Not in competition with Mitch but perfect compliment! Always surrised when. peop!e can't tell who's singing certain parts, Kirstie or Mitch she's so.crisp and just soars, Mitch just "is" often higher but not as sharp as she. Love them all, they were meant to be together!
I love Kirstin’s voice and I really appreciate you pointing out what she actually does for this group, I feel she sometimes get overlooked. This was the first song I heard from them and absolutely fell in love with this group
Now go do Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) from PTX. Reactors are crying real tears, even big macho dudes. The arrangement is possibly their best ever (and hey have grammys already for arrangement) and the performance is just awe inspiring. And the video itself is filmed in a real life beautiful location.
I was pleasantly surprised by this. A capella groups can sometimes be too clinical and "perfect" for a song like this but this has emotion
I still like the version with kurt nilsen, espen lind, askil holm, alejandro fuentes on some Norwegian TV talkshow
Pentatonix is fantastic and you, Julia are fantastic too. Your description and analysis is totally on point. Their visual and audio performance is exquisite but when you describe what’s happening, it’s like a Monet painting. You seriously paint an Impressionist type of landscape on a canvas with your words. I could go on and on. It’s been a long time since I’ve been around or heard anyone else who feels the same way I do about music. Thank you for that. 💕🙏💗☃️🎄You are a gift 🎁
In their recent rendition of Amazing Grace, Mitch shows his agility in the lower ranges of his register. I highly recommend reacting to it.
This is about my 5th time watching this react. Lol. I seem to pick up on different things you comment on each time.....
I absolutely love how you highlighted Avi near the end. Several times in the chorus thru this song, he is kinda "hung out" in the chorus. Everyone else is doing their runs, then there's Avi rumbling a ""lujah" Amazing.
Also, I picked up on that little harmonic by Mitch at the end. It's a bit more.peonounced in their video vs this live version. But still perfect.
One more thing: I am peobly just some crazy old fart Texan, but I kinda "crush" on certain reactors, and you are definitely one. Watching this react made me smile so much,, and your emotion in the Johnny Cash "Hurt" video broke my heart. Love you so much being genuine and showing much love and appreciation for music! Thank you!
Great comments and analysis. Yes, they are all talented and aren’t we lucky they got together. I’m fangirling every time I listen to them. 🤗
Finally someone talks about avi at the end there, cause no one ever says anything but he's amazing
Mitch just has amazing short cords. You can't replicate it.
I love Mitch’s voice. He is amazing.
Avi is 🔥🔥🔥, no need to apologize for appreciating his amazingness!!!
You should definitely look into his solo work now....
Change on the Rise
Otherside
Aberdeen
I'll Get By
......many more
With Avi and how he does the hallelujahs so much faster, my god, he must have incredible control when it comes to his breathing. Just incredible.
Loved the reaction. I'm always interested in the technical parts of their arrangements.
As an Avi fan I liked your reaction to him in particular.
Have you seen "Gold" yet? It's a live recording and Mitch is going up and down his whole register so flawlessly it's crazy.
The whole arrangement is great and everyone can be separated in their parts.
You need to do Avis Change on the Rise....it is so....yum
New sub here, YT recommended you so I clicked now I'm hooked. Love your reactions so far so now off to watch the rest of your videos. Awesome!
or try Egirls are ruining my life by Corpse
Unpopular opinion: "Otherside" is better.
All the way on the other end she could look at stuff like Sweet Adeline for his very high range, but yeah change on the rise would be amazing
Excellent reaction. Love your enthusiasm and positive 'I'm a fan' attitude complemented by technical assessment and analysis. I learned a lot!
I enjoyed your reaction. It was interesting and informative. Thank you. They really are amazing. I appreciate your knowledgeable analysis.
I love how all of them them when they are at the limits of their ranges you can tell it’s not forced
I am SO GLAD you did this one, even if you have heard it a thousand times before. Still a gorgeous performance and ANYBODY who sings live should be totally envious of how this turned out! PTX are the real deal and they have been since their inception. I am also glad you are a Pentaholic! Happy New Year! Luv ya!
This was one of the best breakdowns of a PTX song I've heard. Love your teaching style
Pentatonix’s “Wall Of Sound” is absolutely extraordinary! Oh, and that 3rd ledger-space bass clef Bb that Avi sings at the end! Well, it’s just EVERYTHING! The shower of overtones created by that foundational Bb simply brings goosebumps!
Kevin's jacket probably has a mic at the top of where the collars overlap - close enough to get the slaps, but with a sound floor to prevent movement rustling getting picked up.
You have by far the best voice coach reaction channel. Thank you!
What I still can't comprehend is how their live performances are barely distinguishable from their pre-recorded ones. I can hear the slight differences, but that's only because I listen to PTX (and home free) daily but they are so nominal they might as well be the same. Also Julia I LOVE your reactions they are amazing, they honestly make my day so much better❤❤❤ Keep doing what you do, and keep making us smile every day💞
That PTX “Wall Of Sound” (live!) is astounding! And Avi’s Bb contrabass note is a extraordinary!
First, as always, You are so beautiful!!! Love your comments, you put a lot of effort into pointing things out and explaining what you are reacting to (love your facial expressions) because for the average listener it is not always apparent what you are hearing. It is very helpful when you go back and replay and explain what you are listening to and hearing. Always appreciate your videos and your talent, and of course your beauty. Thanks for another great reaction video. Don't forget Home Free LOL
A suggestion: I know Christmas and the Holidays are almost over but, what I think would be interesting would be for you to do a compare reaction. I know Pentatonix and Voice Play have done covers of "Your A Mean One, Mr Grinch". I'd like to see you do a two in one video, watching both covers and then at the end kind of do a quick, "Which Did You Like the Most? Think about it.
A good way to explain what Kirsten is doing is that she provides the framework during their group parts.
Kevin and Avi (now Matt) provide the foundation, Kirsten then provides the framework and Mitch and Scott then add the finishing touches.
As a musician, I like this live version better than the video! You can see/hear differences, subtle as they might be! Again, that contrabass 3rd ledger-space Bb illuminating the overtones throughout that last chord! Fire!
This is actually insane. I love these guys.
Who is Gus? lol sorry I just hada do it. 😇
Thank you for a wonderful reaction Julia
Chest beats, foot stomps, and the vocal beat-boxing, plus his occasional singing on certain numbers.
Out of the Pentatonix christmas songs, my absolute favorite would *have* to be Mary Did You Know. Absolutely amazing acapella.
The facial expressions and reaction you have to Avi's deep notes is absolutely priceless, it makes the video every time, lmao
They are fantastic! I have heard that Kevin has special gear under his coat to be able to sound out the beats as well as in his shoes for the stomp sound. Like you said he is consistent! Please analysis Bohemian Rhapsody! Thanks for reacting!
Yep I drive anywhere to see this level of genius live
Very nice breakdown of all the voices thank you. In Avi Kaplan's case this is higher in his voice. Have you, or if not would you, react to his solo "Change on the Rise" please? Yes the background vocals are all his. A cappella has of course been left behind for Avi as a solo artist although quite a bit is done acoustically and his backup band is all drawn from a cappella bands so their vocals are very good. There is an official video and also live recorded. For live I would recommend the Amsterdam performance. Very different performance uses of the same song between the two. Thank you.
LOVED IT!!! So happy you finally reacted to some Pentatonix. Allow me to wish you a Very Happy New Year! Take care and God bless.
How about that “Wall Of Sound”? That blows me away-always! And that coda with the end chord anchored by that contrabass 3rd ledger-space Bb by Avi the basso profundo! Those overtones killed me!
Amazing video as always! Love me some PTX have not had the opportunity to see them live yet but i am so excited when I can.
I will suggest again if you are looking for something else to react to, Shawn James gaslight session his flow or through the valley. both recorded live and would love to hear you break down one of his performances!
Cherish by the Association. Colour my world by Chicago. You made me so happy by Blood, Seat, and Tears. Go for it.
Would love to hear your take on Protest The Hero - Sequoia Throne and also Oathbreaker 10:56/Second Son of R. Both songs have a great contrast in vocal style
Ha ha, you’re the first vocal coach I’ve seen who was not more focussed on what Kevin was doing during Kirstie‘s solo.
Mitch is a tenor with supported head voice and well developed mix. Countertenor is not even a voice type, it’s an opera term used to mark soprano range parts sing by male singers. A countertenor part can be performed by any male voice type - a tenor, a baritone or even a bass, just as long as they have good falsetto and can reach soprano level notes
Bravo on your professional response...spot on! U R soooooo good...plus you have beautiful eyes and really great speaking voice. ^_^
I always love your reactions. Such intelligent commentary.
they are so perfect together!!!!!!
I'm surprised you didn't mention Scott's base during Avi's solo at 03:24. Scott went from high baritone to sounding just like Avi when Avi himself was occupied doing the solo. Scott's got range!
Stunning performance, as usual :-). Both from Pentatonix and from Julia :-). Interesting take on how Kirsty uses her vocal nuance amongst a sea of testosterone...well ok AND Mitch, Mr. Perfection. :-) Take as many "Avi, bass appreciation moments" as you want miss !!! Kevin also has perfect pitch, and his cello playing is world class as you mentioned.
I think Kevin had 3 mics. I think he had one on his face for singing, a lapel to get the chest tapping, and one on his pant leg for the stomp. But I am not sure how they would control bleeding between the mics in the mix.
Yes! It has to be incredible control on the sound guy/gal's part to make sure the jacket and leg/foot mics aren't on when there aren't needed.
@@Mokey56001 Nothing so tricky is needed. The whole track is prerecorded. They're lip syncing this performance like they do for many songs during holiday specials.
@@oliviac6627 they don't lip sync in their performances, you can tell that, but when they do, you can tell
@@pearlp1197 They very frequently lip sync. In their music videos, in all their holiday specials, and on tour. PTX tours heavily, want to preserve their voices, and always put out the best-sounding show possible.
ruclips.net/video/pjZ50sdOKTA/видео.html
@@oliviac6627 ah ok I thought you meant the entire song, not just a more taxing part of the song in which they would strain their voices
Thank you and I think you are spot on Julia! You always are it seems! Misty Mountains with Peter Hollens ft. Tim Faust... thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Mitch is not the only one that can go there, you really need to watch their 12 days of Christmas. You will be pleasantly surprised by the high notes..
tears every time i here the last note.
I would LOVE to hear you react to Walk of the Earth and Father We Go (the version in a warehouse where they do it more Accapella) I just can't get over how amazing Sarah sounds when she belts. That or Kesha's Praying (another one that just gives me feels every time)
p.s as a sound engineer it means so much to hear you praise our trade! the respect is real, I love watching your videos, not only are the fascinating and educational, I just love your reactions to these amazing singers. Your passion is clear and comes through unfiltered when you listen to music. It's wonderful to watch.
Mitch's mix is INCREDIBLE. 12:47-13:00 prove that sufficiently
On the video, that drop towards the end physically does something to me, not emotionally but something physical happens to my body. It's immense.
They are incredible
Hi, Julia!
It's great to finally get to see PTX here!! This was really fun!!
They recently did a collaboration with a Japanese group called Little Glee Monster. I think you'd have fun checking some of their stuff.
Thanks for this and Happy New Year in advance!!
You love Avi, I love you. As simple as that 😁 Ok, joking aside, I liked your reaction. Avi's tone is wrapping and emotional for sure and good for a song like this, lyricswise*. And yes, Kevin is marvellous! Love them all. I would also like to say that Matt is great as well and fits the group's sound perfectly. I miss Avi in PTX, but I'm so happy he feels more comfortable with his own music (which is fantastic, btw) and they've found a phenomenal addition. It turned out fine 😉🍃
* another perfect singer for this is Myles Kennedy. So much emotions when he sings it.
I'd love to see more reactions to Home Free. Particularly the song Mayday now that you're more familiar with their vocal roles.
Yes!
I AGREE
I said this elsewhere, but IMO she needs to watch at least one song that does a better job of showing off Chance before she watches Mayday. Something like Can't Outrun You or Yours or maybe Think a Little Less.
Agree with Can’t Outrun You
Cosign, Home Free's cover of Mayday is insane!
Is never actually heard this live. It's amazing.