Love learning more from you!! And I got to listen to PTX again so yay!!😀 that 'ooh' reaction when Kevin came in - Oh yes😮 The amount of knowledge you share in your reactions AND ANALYSIS is incredible and we're all so thankful!
@@PeterBarber I love your reactions wish you would do some more Pentatonix Not saying to forget all the others you’re reacting to just would love some more
Here's your algorithm for the comment. I've heard this song so many times but you always point out things that I miss no matter how many times I have listened. Thank you!
As others have commented, that drone in the first verse is their homage to the traditional use of bagpipes to play this song, especially at funerals and serious ceremonial events. Once you hear that connection, it's impossible to unhear it! Such a beautiful song... haunting and inspiring at the same time. Great reaction, as always! Hurray for PTX Christmas content!
During the credits, as is usual for PTX, they replay the beginning of the song. Hearing Matt just after Kevin really makes me realize how PTX really built/lifted the song. Bass to baritone to tenor to soprano to high tenor, in an easy, natural progression. But when you re-watch you notice - each singer not only sings higher, but adds more frills (runs, belts, more intricate backgrounds, etc), so Matt’s opening verse is basic and solid, while Kirstin soars triumphantly. And then Kevin sorta leaves us stunned while bringing us back down to earth.
Kirstin is not a Soprano, she is an Alto. She is singing a high Alto/very low soprano part. Altos actually usually have much more flexibility than Sopranos (we're picky and lazy singers, because we almost always have the melody, and everyone else is harmonizing around us, says this Second Soprano).
First I remember why I wanted so badly to be a music major in college. Not many people in the corn fields of Iowa think you can much with this type of education. Oh well Masters of nursing and singing tp them works fine too😅. I love your education through each episode, especially of Pentatonix, being a Soprano married to a deep Bass I really want it in every group. Matt is good, I do miss the original group, yet this song is Fantastic. On a personal note, you have matured so much as your evaluations go. 😊
Hello, this song was arranged by contemporary Christian artists Chris Tomlin for the movie Amazing Grace. He wrote this chorus because he realized this song didn’t have a chorus. It’s become a standard in a lot of churches now and when I saw that PTX were going to be doing Amazing Grace I was like, ooh the Chris Tomin version!? I was so happy they did this version. It’s so good. ^^ and great analysis.
I was about to add the same context, I do question the choice PTX made to not really do the instrumental transition that is in the original arrangement from Chris. They more than have the ability to do it vocally and it's arguably one of the more iconic riffs in CCM these days.
@@MAashChickEh, from what I’ve read about their arranging of it was they wanted to make it more ethereal, like how it would have been if the chorus where a part of the original song rather than keeping it super contemporary. They said they wanted it to feel timeless.
It should be noted that Amazing Grace was written by John Newton in 1772. John was originally a slave ship master who eventually became an Anglican priest and later fought alongside William Wilberforce to abolish the African slave trade. That makes the added chorus of, my chains are gone, even more fitting to my mind.
I was so glad to hear you mention the drone. So few reactors pick that up. To me it seems like an homage to the bagpipe version which, of course, uses a drone. I believe that Kirstie was producing the drone primarily. It is a beautiful version of the song in which they honor the gospel background but in their climactic ending sound almost fullblown choir. It amazing how just the five of them can do that. Your analysis is over my head in terms of the musical minutia that helps make it so special but I learn every time I listen to your reactions and for that I am grateful. I also appreciate your willingness to articulate your feelings about the music and the performance as gracefully as you do. Thank You !
I'm always amazed by your pitch matching. Such a gift, but obviously a necessary one for the majority of singers (and why I am not counted among them!).
Peter, thank you for reacting to this song. It is my opinion that the "drone" note in the beginning is to make this section sound similar to a bagpipe. Bagpipes are well known for this, and I don't recall any deep bass tones with bagpipes. It sounds like there was a more pop/ballad sound with Scott's section, more gospel with Mitch's, then Kirstin is purposely going for a more "country" sound (ala: Dolly Parton) to her section, backed by a church organ. The chords, plus lots of reverb give it this sound. I believe they went to a lot of trouble to arrange these particular nuances, one flowing into the next. I enjoy your reactions and analyses. Thanks again.
Thank you for covering this one. It's really personal to me, this came out around the time that my Granny passed and always reminds me of her. She was an amazing woman and I know that she would have LOVED this cover. Kevin's final solo ALWAYS gives me goosebumps.
Contributing with an algorithm … I always learn so much from you, so thank you for that. Kirstie just beams in this video, she’s the heart for sure. And Kevin always takes my breath away. Peace from Ohio … Ooh, do O Come All Ye Faithful!
Peter I always enjoy your comments and reactions. I learn so much (I'm not a singer). The first time I watched this video I teared up just because of the beauty of the scenery and the power of their voices. PTX has a whole new Christmas album out now. Their "Prayers For This World" is an amazing anthem for our times. Very powerful.
Peter Barber I appreciate your perspective from a classically trained musician. This is the first time that you included the chart of musical scales. Thank you, for sharing your talent.
I don't normally leave comments, but I have truly come to enjoy watching your reaction and analysis videos, I learn so much every time. You point out things I would never have noticed on my own, and your explanations are easy to understand and follow. I had a question I always wanted to ask you. I've hesitated because it's about a song you've never covered, an older one by Pentatonix, and I don't think you ever will, but here goes. Some years ago Pentatonix did a song called "I'll Run", it's one of the few songs that Kevin actually sings in, no percussion/b-boxing, just pure vocals from all of them. They sing the song in a way that they seem to harmonize only one note away from each other throughout most of the song. Of course they have their powerful breakout sessions that they're so well-known for, but then they go right back to harmonizing one right on top of each other that their voices blend with such a resonance that it makes the whole song sound almost haunting. I have so many questions. Are they really one note away from each other? Are they really singing the notes the exact same way when they harmonize, or are there slight tonal changes that I'm just not catching? I hope someday I'll get an answer to my question, but either way keep up the good work! I really do enjoy watching your videos and will continue viewing them with great pleasure.
Your breakdowns of Pentatonix are incredible. I love hearing you explain the small subtleties that I miss because I am just trying to sing it and hit notes that I have no business trying to hit.
Thank you for helping me become aware of Matt's baritones. I have always heard the obvious tones, but now I find myself listening for Matt, even relistening to a song to find each individual's part! Eye (or ear) opening.
This song always makes me cry like a baby, but this version, omg I cried so hard. It was my dads funeral song so now this song hits me twice as hard when I hear it.
I always feel just a little smarter when I have listened to one of your reactions. It creates an added appreciation of this uniquely talented, singular group. Thank you.
Good job by the new video editor. Liked the addition of signature key and notes at certain places. Especially helpful when the key changed. More please! You always bring attention to such subtle changes that occur seamlessly in the background, but most of us miss. Those supporting elements make Pentatonix world class performers. Each one can magnificently stand alone, but choose to step back and support the lead singer with creative underlying sounds, notes, movement. Bravo, Peter, for your fantastic analysis again. 👏 Peter, what is your favorite Pentatonix song thus far (musically)?
I too liked the displays with the notes on the staves. I do read sheet music (roughly eight years of piano lessons, and four years of choral music in high school) helped, because I am a visual learner, rather than aural.
Glad you liked my additions! I'm hoping I can help more inexperienced musicians understand what Peter is talking about throughout the videos with visuals like that.
This is a fairly well known arrangement in Contemporary Christian Music. And, as usual, PTX made it their own while staying remarkably close to the original. Later in the piece (about 18:13 in your reaction), most groups will switch from full band to a capella. Of course, PTX finds a way to make that same transition while being just voices all the time! That bass entrance by Matt in that section is exactly what I do when playing bass in my band on this song.
I always love when ptx "go acapella" in a song that is already acapella. Just so funny and impressive at the same time. Really shows how instrument like their full arrangements are.
You are probably the only reactor that I will spend 20 plus minutes with. I enjoy your observations. And I love PTX. I did see them perform this live a few days ago. It was amazing
PTX use almost no post processing in any of their stuff. Kevin is the human 808. I just heard them perform this live last week - it was epic! - but this is EXACTLY what it sounded like. It's a big thing with them not to have anything in their videos that they cannot do live. I hadn't come across your channel before, but I always love to hear professionals reacting to my favorite group. This has been absolutely fascinating. I actually learned a lot watching. Have subbed and am looking forward to seeing more.
I love this so much as you pointed out things I had previously missed. Really happy to see you have come back to PTX!! They have several...OK, more than I can list...Christmas goodies, both old and new. I would love to see you analyze " I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In", " Making Christmas", "O Come All Ye Faithful" (Avi had fun !) "White Winter Hymnal" (Lyrics are totally crazy but they have so much fun with it!) AND...their latest, "Prayers for the World"! Even if you don't choose to do this last one, watch the behind the scene video. Thanks Peter for everything you do.
Love your reactions! So glad they picked Chris Tomlin’s arrangement to add to. Powerful lyrics plus beautiful harmonies in a chapel in nature = very moving video that can reach anyone! Those suspended, augmented & resolved chords are magnificent! Saw this live two weeks ago! Stunning!
The My Chains Are Gone is a new add in that contemporary Gospel has added to Amazing Grace. I like it ok, but I'm mostly a purest when it comes to my Sacred music. The older hymns are lyrically better, and carry the message of the song. Love this analysis, and thank you for sharing your gifts 💜
Here are store uptempo Christmas songs ... Mr Grinch... Matt Over the River.... with Kevin on Cello Oh, Come all ye faithful My favorite things An all time fav of many Mary did you know?
I highly recommend their new Christmas song Prayers For This World. Just when you think they can't get any better they take it sky high. Their entire Christmas album that just came out is incredible. I love every song on it.
I have been searching for the word 'suspension' for years... Yes, I intuitively knew what it was, but couldn't identify it. Thank you for ending the mystery!
It always amazes me how quickly you pick up on things during these analysis videos. My first time hearing a song I can either 1) just let it wash over me or 2) pay attention to one thing at a time, lol. You, however, notice all the different layers, lyrics, chords, melody and harmony, the tempo, how they all change through the song to give contrast, etc... all on the first listen. Very impressive! Showcases your training and practice, I think.
That drone at the beginning calls out to the popularity of “Amazing Grace” with bagpipers. “My Chains are Gone” is a Christian praise and worship song by Chris Tomlin that is a reimagining of “Amazing Grace.” It’s just like this. It’s the original English lyrics of “Amazing Grace” used as the verses in a pop structure with a new chorus.
Peter, I know it’s been at least a couple of years since you did this reaction but I wanted you to know that even though time has passed it still does not go unappreciated. I have some musical training myself (2 years Music Theory and 2 years Muscianship (sight singing and ear-training)) so I both understand and appreciate much of your musical knowledge and sharing. Still, I continue to learn by listening to you (e.g. I didn’t know what a drone was) and it seems you just happen to be strongly emotionally moved by many of the same musical elements of Pentatonix that I am (such as Mitch’s little riff at the end of his verse). I am a hardcore Pentaholic and listen to a LOT of reactors react to them but one thing I have yet to hear any reactors comment on in this song is Kirstie’s intentional use of what I would call “couplet” singing. That is to say, whereas Mitch and Scott stuck with the traditional legato styling typically associated with this song Kirstie sings two words at a time and breathes between each pair thus breaking up the previous legato feel. Those separations also accentuate her long extension and crescendo at the end of those phrases. I think she does this intentionally to vary her verse and help keep it interesting and I think it succeeds subtly, but importantly. Especially, since I am a musician, I love your reactions and appreciate the actual vocal explanations you give that explain how different colors of sound are produced with the vocal folds. I did NOT study voice. As In some of your other Pentatonix videos you also comment on their forward placement for a light and focused vocal tone. I had a college choral director who had sung with the San Francisco Opera Company but gave up his career for marriage and family (he was a baritone who could belt a C5 and break a cinder block wall with it, he simply had a MONSTER voice). But he believed in forward vocal placement as opposed to a rear-throated placement which turns the sound much darker and muddier. Your reactions now make me wish I had studied voice, it must be quite gratifying to know exactly how vocalists produce the sounds they do, thank you! ❤
The reverb on the hand claps emulates the acoustics of the chapel where this video was shot. With walls of stone and glass the room is extremely “live”. It’s the Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes California south of downtown Los Angeles and west of Long Beach.
A Peter Barber PTX reaction?! What a delightful suprpise to improve my Monday. Loved it! Yes definitely do some PTX Christmas, I am very fond of First Noel. Avi sounds great in that one. 12 Days of Christmas is a lot of fun, it is impossible not to smile while listening to it. Deck the Halls is very catchy and was their first video with Matt, who they intro at the end of the video, right before the 2017 Christmas tour (that tour was like his trial run before being announced as a permanent member).
Very good suggestions. I don't know if he does reactions to songs without videos but I think he would really enjoy diving in to some of the non-single tracks on their latest album (holidays around the world). They do use some instruments in many of them, but the way they have fused different genres and cultures sounds in these songs is so musically interesting and from what I've seen Peter seems to have a curious mind that gets tickled by different music. His is a reaction I would love to some of those songs. My main suggestions from it would be "Love came on Christmas", "Hark! The herald angels sing" and maybe Silent Night?
I really appreciate the inclusion of the actual notes on a staff as you talk about them. The staff is more helpful to me than hearing, say, "E2." I'm glad you mentioned the drone at the start, too! Pentatonix like the bagpipe effect. In fact, if you haven't already seen it, you should react to their "Twelve Days of Christmas." You'll know why I brought it up. Thanks for a very enjoyable and educational 24 minutes.
The bit about EQ’ing Matt as a bass, slightly changing the timbre of the bass line was an interesting tidbit I hadn’t thought about before and I was nodding along while you were talking-so thanks for that. Love your reactions/analyses! You would seriously love The Recording of Evergreen, which is a BTS look at how their Grammy nominated Christmas album was recorded. It’s abt 18 min long but I’m pretty confident we’d be here for a supersized reaction. I love watching vocalists react to other vocalists working. In lieu of taking that on, you really should do this year’s Prayers For This World. It’s pretty epic and they sound better than I’ve ever heard them which I didn’t think was possible.. Bring tissues.
New subscriber! I love your breakdown of each section, educational and entertaining. When listening to PTX there are so many elements and layers and it's nice of you to provide a technical explanation of what we're hearing and how their vocal sounds are made. As usual they did a phenomenal job!
You would absolutely LOVE how Avi Kaplan rearranged Silent Night. The official video is a live recording and is my favorite of all of their Christmas music. Thank you so much for reacting to Amazing Grace. I always lean so much from your videos. ❤
Love learning more from you!! And I got to listen to PTX again so yay!!😀 that 'ooh' reaction when Kevin came in - Oh yes😮 The amount of knowledge you share in your reactions AND ANALYSIS is incredible and we're all so thankful!
I appreciate YOU
@@PeterBarber I love your reactions wish you would do some more Pentatonix Not saying to forget all the others you’re reacting to just would love some more
I heard this performed live at their Christmas concert. My friend leaned over to me and said this song alone was worth the price of admission.
Here's your algorithm for the comment. I've heard this song so many times but you always point out things that I miss no matter how many times I have listened. Thank you!
As others have commented, that drone in the first verse is their homage to the traditional use of bagpipes to play this song, especially at funerals and serious ceremonial events. Once you hear that connection, it's impossible to unhear it! Such a beautiful song... haunting and inspiring at the same time. Great reaction, as always! Hurray for PTX Christmas content!
During the credits, as is usual for PTX, they replay the beginning of the song. Hearing Matt just after Kevin really makes me realize how PTX really built/lifted the song. Bass to baritone to tenor to soprano to high tenor, in an easy, natural progression.
But when you re-watch you notice - each singer not only sings higher, but adds more frills (runs, belts, more intricate backgrounds, etc), so Matt’s opening verse is basic and solid, while Kirstin soars triumphantly. And then Kevin sorta leaves us stunned while bringing us back down to earth.
Kirstin is not a Soprano, she is an Alto. She is singing a high Alto/very low soprano part. Altos actually usually have much more flexibility than Sopranos (we're picky and lazy singers, because we almost always have the melody, and everyone else is harmonizing around us, says this Second Soprano).
And Kevin, provides the pillow to land on after the flying we just spent 4 minutes doing.
First I remember why I wanted so badly to be a music major in college. Not many people in the corn fields of Iowa think you can much with this type of education. Oh well Masters of nursing and singing tp them works fine too😅. I love your education through each episode, especially of Pentatonix, being a Soprano married to a deep Bass I really want it in every group. Matt is good, I do miss the original group, yet this song is Fantastic. On a personal note, you have matured so much as your evaluations go. 😊
@@super_sirishe is a soprano and can range down to alto
Hello, this song was arranged by contemporary Christian artists Chris Tomlin for the movie Amazing Grace. He wrote this chorus because he realized this song didn’t have a chorus. It’s become a standard in a lot of churches now and when I saw that PTX were going to be doing Amazing Grace I was like, ooh the Chris Tomin version!? I was so happy they did this version. It’s so good. ^^ and great analysis.
I was about to add the same context, I do question the choice PTX made to not really do the instrumental transition that is in the original arrangement from Chris. They more than have the ability to do it vocally and it's arguably one of the more iconic riffs in CCM these days.
@@MAashChickEh, from what I’ve read about their arranging of it was they wanted to make it more ethereal, like how it would have been if the chorus where a part of the original song rather than keeping it super contemporary. They said they wanted it to feel timeless.
lol when I saw that PTX was doing a Chris Tomlin cover I freaked out!
It should be noted that Amazing Grace was written by John Newton in 1772. John was originally a slave ship master who eventually became an Anglican priest and later fought alongside William Wilberforce to abolish the African slave trade. That makes the added chorus of, my chains are gone, even more fitting to my mind.
@@jenniferlucas3540 He himself was also a slave before he became a slave master of a ship as well.
I was so glad to hear you mention the drone. So few reactors pick that up. To me it seems like an homage to the bagpipe version which, of course, uses a drone. I believe that Kirstie was producing the drone primarily. It is a beautiful version of the song in which they honor the gospel background but in their climactic ending sound almost fullblown choir. It amazing how just the five of them can do that. Your analysis is over my head in terms of the musical minutia that helps make it so special but I learn every time I listen to your reactions and for that I am grateful. I also appreciate your willingness to articulate your feelings about the music and the performance as gracefully as you do. Thank You !
I'm always amazed by your pitch matching. Such a gift, but obviously a necessary one for the majority of singers (and why I am not counted among them!).
Please leave an algorithm for the comment!
🤔
@@michaelf8702 my thoughts exactly lol
How about the Euclidean Algorithm? Lol
😂
Yes sir, here's your algorithm :)
Peter, thank you for reacting to this song. It is my opinion that the "drone" note in the beginning is to make this section sound similar to a bagpipe. Bagpipes are well known for this, and I don't recall any deep bass tones with bagpipes. It sounds like there was a more pop/ballad sound with Scott's section, more gospel with Mitch's, then Kirstin is purposely going for a more "country" sound (ala: Dolly Parton) to her section, backed by a church organ. The chords, plus lots of reverb give it this sound. I believe they went to a lot of trouble to arrange these particular nuances, one flowing into the next. I enjoy your reactions and analyses. Thanks again.
Honeslty when they do this one live, especially in this years tour, it's so good, Matt drops some really low notes!!
Thank you for covering this one. It's really personal to me, this came out around the time that my Granny passed and always reminds me of her. She was an amazing woman and I know that she would have LOVED this cover. Kevin's final solo ALWAYS gives me goosebumps.
Oh wow it is fabulous to hear a true musical analysis and your reaction. Thank you 🙏
Glad you enjoyed and appreciated it!
I love the look on your face when you really appreciate how all the singers come together.
Hi Peter! I absolutely love this song, and your analysis just made me appreciate it even more. Thank You!
"Pentatonix can do no wrong." FINALLY... someone gets it.
They always give me goosebumps
PTX concert tickets I have, excited I am!
Contributing with an algorithm … I always learn so much from you, so thank you for that. Kirstie just beams in this video, she’s the heart for sure. And Kevin always takes my breath away. Peace from Ohio … Ooh, do O Come All Ye Faithful!
Peter I always enjoy your comments and reactions. I learn so much (I'm not a singer). The first time I watched this video I teared up just because of the beauty of the scenery and the power of their voices. PTX has a whole new Christmas album out now. Their "Prayers For This World" is an amazing anthem for our times. Very powerful.
I just love Kirstie's voice so much in this. Goosebumps every single time I listen!
Been waiting on another PTX video reaction from you. Let's go!!!
Kirstie and Kevin are doing the drone to replicate bagpipes, great catch of that!
Thank you for this! Can’t wait for more PTX.
Really like the showing of the notes on the music staff!
I love when a capella groups go a capella! That point in Kirstin's verse is awesome! Only to be broken by Matt's beautiful bass run! Perfection! ❤❤
Outstanding analysis as usual. You've joined the ranks of Charismatic Voice and Fairy Voice Mother!
Peter Barber
I appreciate your perspective from a classically trained musician.
This is the first time that you included the chart of musical scales.
Thank you, for sharing your talent.
I enjoy your analyses, I’m don’t have a lot of music knowledge but I always enjoy hearing/watching experts.
Love your analyses, I have little knowledge of music but I love listening to people who know what’s going on.
Your comments add to my enjoyment of the song
I don't normally leave comments, but I have truly come to enjoy watching your reaction and analysis videos, I learn so much every time. You point out things I would never have noticed on my own, and your explanations are easy to understand and follow. I had a question I always wanted to ask you. I've hesitated because it's about a song you've never covered, an older one by Pentatonix, and I don't think you ever will, but here goes. Some years ago Pentatonix did a song called "I'll Run", it's one of the few songs that Kevin actually sings in, no percussion/b-boxing, just pure vocals from all of them. They sing the song in a way that they seem to harmonize only one note away from each other throughout most of the song. Of course they have their powerful breakout sessions that they're so well-known for, but then they go right back to harmonizing one right on top of each other that their voices blend with such a resonance that it makes the whole song sound almost haunting. I have so many questions. Are they really one note away from each other? Are they really singing the notes the exact same way when they harmonize, or are there slight tonal changes that I'm just not catching? I hope someday I'll get an answer to my question, but either way keep up the good work! I really do enjoy watching your videos and will continue viewing them with great pleasure.
I LOVED listening to you break the chords and sounds down. Well done❣️😊
Such a great breakdown and analysis!! ❤️
Your breakdowns of Pentatonix are incredible. I love hearing you explain the small subtleties that I miss because I am just trying to sing it and hit notes that I have no business trying to hit.
Love how you show the difference between the layers of the voices. I love pentatonix. Thanks for a great reaction! ❤
Reaction+analysis from someone musically knowledgeable is so much more worthwhile. Thank you for this.
I love the way you bring the underlying harmonies to our attention. It's something I would have missed and it is so important to the whole piece
Thank you for helping me become aware of Matt's baritones. I have always heard the obvious tones, but now I find myself listening for Matt, even relistening to a song to find each individual's part! Eye (or ear) opening.
This song always makes me cry like a baby, but this version, omg I cried so hard. It was my dads funeral song so now this song hits me twice as hard when I hear it.
I always feel just a little smarter when I have listened to one of your reactions. It creates an added appreciation of this uniquely talented, singular group. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing you experience and your wisdom. I have really enjoyed your reactions and your explanations. Cheers from Canada
Good job by the new video editor. Liked the addition of signature key and notes at certain places. Especially helpful when the key changed. More please! You always bring attention to such subtle changes that occur seamlessly in the background, but most of us miss. Those supporting elements make Pentatonix world class performers. Each one can magnificently stand alone, but choose to step back and support the lead singer with creative underlying sounds, notes, movement. Bravo, Peter, for your fantastic analysis again. 👏 Peter, what is your favorite Pentatonix song thus far (musically)?
I too liked the displays with the notes on the staves. I do read sheet music (roughly eight years of piano lessons, and four years of choral music in high school) helped, because I am a visual learner, rather than aural.
Glad you liked my additions! I'm hoping I can help more inexperienced musicians understand what Peter is talking about throughout the videos with visuals like that.
This is a fairly well known arrangement in Contemporary Christian Music. And, as usual, PTX made it their own while staying remarkably close to the original. Later in the piece (about 18:13 in your reaction), most groups will switch from full band to a capella. Of course, PTX finds a way to make that same transition while being just voices all the time! That bass entrance by Matt in that section is exactly what I do when playing bass in my band on this song.
I always love when ptx "go acapella" in a song that is already acapella. Just so funny and impressive at the same time. Really shows how instrument like their full arrangements are.
Thank you for teaching me! I love learning with you 💟
This was a Masterclass. I feel grateful. I really enjoyed it very much! Thanks Peter!
I always love listening to your reaction!
Thoroughly enjoyed your breakdown. Helps us better understand why we like this piece so much.
I love your reviews, I’m always learning something new or broadening my musical awareness! Thank you!
Obsessed with your reactions ❤
This song is frequently played at funerals with bagpipes. The drone is reminiscent of what you’d hear from the bagpipes.
I learn SO much from your analysis!
Here for your analysis of any of this group's songs! You explain very well!
You are probably the only reactor that I will spend 20 plus minutes with. I enjoy your observations. And I love PTX. I did see them perform this live a few days ago. It was amazing
PTX use almost no post processing in any of their stuff. Kevin is the human 808. I just heard them perform this live last week - it was epic! - but this is EXACTLY what it sounded like. It's a big thing with them not to have anything in their videos that they cannot do live.
I hadn't come across your channel before, but I always love to hear professionals reacting to my favorite group. This has been absolutely fascinating. I actually learned a lot watching. Have subbed and am looking forward to seeing more.
Thank you for another comprehensive exploration and celebration of incredible music. You bring awesome light to this world.
I love this so much as you pointed out things I had previously missed. Really happy to see you have come back to PTX!! They have several...OK, more than I can list...Christmas goodies, both old and new. I would love to see you analyze " I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In", " Making Christmas", "O Come All Ye Faithful" (Avi had fun !) "White Winter Hymnal" (Lyrics are totally crazy but they have so much fun with it!) AND...their latest, "Prayers for the World"! Even if you don't choose to do this last one, watch the behind the scene video. Thanks Peter for everything you do.
Oooh you definitely have to check out dance of the sugar plum fairy!
Love your reactions! So glad they picked Chris Tomlin’s arrangement to add to. Powerful lyrics plus beautiful harmonies in a chapel in nature = very moving video that can reach anyone! Those suspended, augmented & resolved chords are magnificent! Saw this live two weeks ago! Stunning!
The My Chains Are Gone is a new add in that contemporary Gospel has added to Amazing Grace. I like it ok, but I'm mostly a purest when it comes to my Sacred music. The older hymns are lyrically better, and carry the message of the song. Love this analysis, and thank you for sharing your gifts 💜
Here are store uptempo Christmas songs ...
Mr Grinch... Matt
Over the River.... with Kevin on Cello
Oh, Come all ye faithful
My favorite things
An all time fav of many
Mary did you know?
This is honestly one of my favorite songs they've done! So glad you got to hear this one!
I highly recommend their new Christmas song Prayers For This World. Just when you think they can't get any better they take it sky high. Their entire Christmas album that just came out is incredible. I love every song on it.
It's incredible and so right for how the world is at the moment.
I have been searching for the word 'suspension' for years... Yes, I intuitively knew what it was, but couldn't identify it. Thank you for ending the mystery!
It always amazes me how quickly you pick up on things during these analysis videos. My first time hearing a song I can either 1) just let it wash over me or 2) pay attention to one thing at a time, lol. You, however, notice all the different layers, lyrics, chords, melody and harmony, the tempo, how they all change through the song to give contrast, etc... all on the first listen. Very impressive! Showcases your training and practice, I think.
Learning more, your voice is great!!!
I always learn so much from your videos. You point out stuff that no one else does.
I love the lessons.
In the hymnal I saw, the Tomlin lyric actually includes the "Oh," before "...amazing grace" that only Mitch bothers to sings.
Great reaction. I have been looking forward to another Pentatonix reaction from you. 😁
That drone at the beginning calls out to the popularity of “Amazing Grace” with bagpipers.
“My Chains are Gone” is a Christian praise and worship song by Chris Tomlin that is a reimagining of “Amazing Grace.” It’s just like this. It’s the original English lyrics of “Amazing Grace” used as the verses in a pop structure with a new chorus.
You rock the basso profundo world.🌎🎵
Peter, I know it’s been at least a couple of years since you did this reaction but I wanted you to know that even though time has passed it still does not go unappreciated. I have some musical training myself (2 years Music Theory and 2 years Muscianship (sight singing and ear-training)) so I both understand and appreciate much of your musical knowledge and sharing. Still, I continue to learn by listening to you (e.g. I didn’t know what a drone was) and it seems you just happen to be strongly emotionally moved by many of the same musical elements of Pentatonix that I am (such as Mitch’s little riff at the end of his verse). I am a hardcore Pentaholic and listen to a LOT of reactors react to them but one thing I have yet to hear any reactors comment on in this song is Kirstie’s intentional use of what I would call “couplet” singing. That is to say, whereas Mitch and Scott stuck with the traditional legato styling typically associated with this song Kirstie sings two words at a time and breathes between each pair thus breaking up the previous legato feel. Those separations also accentuate her long extension and crescendo at the end of those phrases. I think she does this intentionally to vary her verse and help keep it interesting and I think it succeeds subtly, but importantly. Especially, since I am a musician, I love your reactions and appreciate the actual vocal explanations you give that explain how different colors of sound are produced with the vocal folds. I did NOT study voice. As In some of your other Pentatonix videos you also comment on their forward placement for a light and focused vocal tone. I had a college choral director who had sung with the San Francisco Opera Company but gave up his career for marriage and family (he was a baritone who could belt a C5 and break a cinder block wall with it, he simply had a MONSTER voice). But he believed in forward vocal placement as opposed to a rear-throated placement which turns the sound much darker and muddier. Your reactions now make me wish I had studied voice, it must be quite gratifying to know exactly how vocalists produce the sounds they do, thank you! ❤
I learn so much from your analysis. Excellent job!
So glad to hear that! Thank you :]
Great video! I love seeing someone that knows music so well digging into good music to help explain why it’s so great.
The reverb on the hand claps emulates the acoustics of the chapel where this video was shot. With walls of stone and glass the room is extremely “live”.
It’s the Wayfarers Chapel in Rancho Palos Verdes California south of downtown Los Angeles and west of Long Beach.
Great insight Thanks Peter x Yes plz more Pentatonix 🎉
I been with for 10 years now
I love this video and rendition of this song. It feels like it belongs in this outdoor church
You always enhance my listening experience as you bring an analysis that we don't get from other reactors.
As always, superb analysis.
So if your doing Christmas cover PTX Mary Did You Know. It is absolutely beautiful ❤️
A Peter Barber PTX reaction?! What a delightful suprpise to improve my Monday. Loved it! Yes definitely do some PTX Christmas, I am very fond of First Noel. Avi sounds great in that one. 12 Days of Christmas is a lot of fun, it is impossible not to smile while listening to it. Deck the Halls is very catchy and was their first video with Matt, who they intro at the end of the video, right before the 2017 Christmas tour (that tour was like his trial run before being announced as a permanent member).
Very good suggestions. I don't know if he does reactions to songs without videos but I think he would really enjoy diving in to some of the non-single tracks on their latest album (holidays around the world). They do use some instruments in many of them, but the way they have fused different genres and cultures sounds in these songs is so musically interesting and from what I've seen Peter seems to have a curious mind that gets tickled by different music. His is a reaction I would love to some of those songs. My main suggestions from it would be "Love came on Christmas", "Hark! The herald angels sing" and maybe Silent Night?
Love your reactions!!!
I really appreciate the inclusion of the actual notes on a staff as you talk about them. The staff is more helpful to me than hearing, say, "E2." I'm glad you mentioned the drone at the start, too! Pentatonix like the bagpipe effect. In fact, if you haven't already seen it, you should react to their "Twelve Days of Christmas." You'll know why I brought it up. Thanks for a very enjoyable and educational 24 minutes.
Peter, you are the algorithm to my acapella appreciation 😉😊
Loove this, your ear for notes is amazing. Great vid!
I really enjoyed your breakdown of this song. You clearly liked what they did with it too. Thank you!
As a «tone deaf» person when it comes to my own singing, I surely appreciate your obvious talent, and so pedagogically presented.
You're awesome, Peter! Love & best wishes, Your Great Aunt Betsy
The bit about EQ’ing Matt as a bass, slightly changing the timbre of the bass line was an interesting tidbit I hadn’t thought about before and I was nodding along while you were talking-so thanks for that. Love your reactions/analyses! You would seriously love The Recording of Evergreen, which is a BTS look at how their Grammy nominated Christmas album was recorded. It’s abt 18 min long but I’m pretty confident we’d be here for a supersized reaction. I love watching vocalists react to other vocalists working. In lieu of taking that on, you really should do this year’s Prayers For This World. It’s pretty epic and they sound better than I’ve ever heard them which I didn’t think was possible.. Bring tissues.
New subscriber! I love your breakdown of each section, educational and entertaining. When listening to PTX there are so many elements and layers and it's nice of you to provide a technical explanation of what we're hearing and how their vocal sounds are made. As usual they did a phenomenal job!
Oh 😮 Wow did you see Mitch’s back 💁🏻♀️ sporting angelic wings❣️😉🤙🏼 (beginning of vid)
You would absolutely LOVE how Avi Kaplan rearranged Silent Night. The official video is a live recording and is my favorite of all of their Christmas music.
Thank you so much for reacting to Amazing Grace. I always lean so much from your videos. ❤
I now try to identify head voice and chest when I hear people saying because of you 😆
Great reaction love the analysis of this song I'm hearing things in this song i never noticed before
I believe they did the drone at the beginning to represent bagpipes
Peter, I really appreciate and enjoy your analysis especially of Pentatonix
Thanks Peter. I do hear more with your guidance :)
Always love your reactions and analysis!!!