Welcome back to the final day of the Pentatonix Pentathlon! I hope you enjoyed this journey through some of their greatest Xmas hits as much as I did -- it was so fun to fall back in love with this group. Please leave recommendations for any PTX songs I've missed over the years!
This still is one of my top favorite arrangements of theirs. So beautiful! Goosebumps goes nuts when Kevin with his angel voice comes in right after that big belt and brief silence. Clever arranging. Thanks for a great analysis!
It's past time you heard this outstanding Pentatonix carol. It's an "oldie" in their terms but will always be great. Thank you, Peter. I wish you a very Merry Christmas!
This, and Hallelujah, are two of my absolute favorites from Pentatonix. They are a master class in vocal arrangements and technique, and I've loved just about every arrangement they've ever done. And you're right about them featuring Kevin towards the end! They did it in Amazing Grace, too, and a little bit in First Noel. He's so multi talented; they all are, really, but it's easy to have it slip your mind that Kevin has this beautiful voice. So when he does come in and let loose, it's a happy surprise for our brains each time. Thank you so much for this series, Peter! It's been a joy to have you react and analyze to their music again. Merry Christmas, and hugs and love from California!
This was the first PTX song I ever heard. I loved it so much, Little did I realize that they would be an important part of my Christmas tradition. First comes Voiceplay for Halloween that leads to my PTX Christmas playlist. But Mary Did You Know is still my favorite. Thank you for this drive into this wonderful group.
It always blows my mind how crisp and clean they end a song. They are so tight that they all end exactly together so you don't hear any "muddy" ending notes. So AWSOME!! I hope you listen to some of their newer Christmas songs. Thanks again Peter. I always learn so much from you. Merry Christmas !!
Interesting also that in the section just before Kevin's solo, Kirstie and Mitch are actually harmonising with vibrato. And their vibratos are in sync! I guess it's possible when you've been singing together basically since childhood.
Exactly. Mitch and Scott can also sync their vibratos. It’s very evident in Superfruits cover of defying gravity. I’m sure them all having the same choir teacher helped too. Pretty sure the three of them could all sync vibratos perfectly. Even though Kirsties solo vibrato style has changed quite a bit the last few years. Ben Bram is also good at getting them to sing in the same style and sound when he’s in the studio while they record.
So happy to see you getting back into Pentatonix! Others I think you’d really enjoy: Kiss From a Rose, Mad World, 90s Dance Medley, When the Party’s Over and the live version of Aha! in Singapore 😊
Merry Christmas, Peter! Thank you for doing this during the week before Christmas! It was a real treat, and some of my favorite arrangements of my favorite Christmas songs! Wonderful analysis, as always! 🎄❄️⛄️🎉💙
This song usually give me chills, but Penatonix makes them extra! Your analysis add so much depth…. I don’t listen to any songs the same since I’ve been watching/listening to you! Love all your videos. Thank you for all!!
This wàs gorgeous and was my first introduction to PTX back in the day. Loved Avi's voice from the beginning notes. His timbre is so smooth. The AI says Scott is 6'3" and Avi is 5'11" if that helps. I did see Avi say just recently that he is leaving his current management arrangement so maybe you and the bass gang can get together with him soon. Have a great holiday Peter.
I have seen this vid literally over a thousand times, I'm sure, and it still gets a reaction, generally tears, out of me. Whatever chords they hit seem to just rake my brain the right way. Also in response to the thoughts about Kevin, you should look at his solo stuff on his channel, his KOvers are all honestly incredible. It's just him, some loopers, and some instruments, in real time for the most part, and they're all awesome.
Peter, so glad you decided to play these five songs this year! So enjoyed hearing your take on all the songs! In case you haven’t seen it there is a live video of 12 Days of Christmas at one of their shows in 2023! Really amazing! Thanks for your time! Love your analyses!
This is my absolute favorite carol from them. The first time I heard it I cried; it told the story of Mary as the Mother of the Christ child. After all, she was reportedly about 14yrs old and newly married to an older man, Joseph. The enormity of her situation was harrowing, to say the least…yet she trusted God. This song, soooo beautifully sung by PTX has never been outdone, IMO 💎
Love your analysis as always. If I had a musical wish it would be to have Geoff, Tim Foust, and Avi with whoever else wants to join in, do a low bass collaboration. I love how warm Avi's voice is when he sings, Geoff is just a bass god (or dragon), and Tim has it all. If the music gods are kind...
Got here late but as always I’ve learned from your expert analysis. Now I need to go find the piece to listen to it straight through. They did a brilliant job with it!! Thank you Peter.
Still 1 of my all time favorites from them is silent night Just simple the 5 of them in a church doing acapella. Some of my other favorites though are My favorite things, please Santa please, That's Christmas to me! And so many more!
Peter would LOVE that version of Silent Night! Straight a capella arranged by Avi & Kevin! They were such an amazing team! I was so happy when I heard Kevin say they are still very good friends! ❤️
Merry Christmas, Peter. I'm so glad to see you dive back into PTX, I love the way you break them down. I'm curious if you've ever heard their covers of: Problem (Scott's highs & sassy Mitch); Take on Me (Mitch's range), or; Scott's of I Should Tell Ya Momma on You (for whatever the heck you can call what he's doing in that), I believe he either privated or deleted his old stuff off his own channel when he launched Mars but it is still out there as a reupload.
Kevin did the arrangement for this - he is a very devout Christian and wanted to do this one. He also did the "calypso-feel" arrangement of "O, Come All Ye Faithful"
You couldn't ask for a better Xmas gift than to reconnect with PTX. I used to sing while working alone in big empty spaces and the reberv/echo in this song always takes me back to those moments. PTX do it so well. Sorry .. and you don't need to answer but are you related to singer Jill Barber? "Oh My My" popped up on my playlist and while listening, I realized that it's practically A Capella already and since I've recently been watching your videos the question was born. Regardless have a great 2025! Your PTX reactions got my subscription too.
Kevin's voice is so beautiful! But he didn't think he was good enough to solo in the beginning. In the early years, he & Avi roomed together & Avi gave Kevin singing lessons! Now his sweet bell-like tenor is often mistaken for Mitch! 😮If there's no perc going on, be sure & listen for Kevin in the high notes! Even if it's just a few beats or measures w/out perc! Good example is the end of The Prayer. So many reactors think Mitch was double tracked! But that loud bell note at the end is Kevin - while Mitch soars in the background clouds! 💖
I have you in my ear while I chart at work. I do ultrasound and we also use “spectral envelope”. I’ve not heard it used for music but it makes so much sense. Sound waves are sound waves
I’ve never heard this song before I heard the Pentatonix version. Christmas isn’t my holiday and I don’t purposefully listen to Christmas music but I love Pentatonix so I listen to their Christmas music.
This is not only my favorite song PTX ever did, it's my favorite performance of any Christmas song...although...Geoff Castellucci's Carol of the Bells is giving it a HARD run for the money right now.
I knew I loved them and their music, but you explained Why? Thank you brother, I do appreciate all your knowledge and your willing to share. God bless and Take care!….. SanJoséBob
Pentatonix is the group that got me into modern a cappella groups. I've enjoyed barbershop since I was kid, but I've definitely fallen in love with groups like this one (Voiceplay, Home Free, etc). I noticed that you've reacted to some K-pop. I'd like to see more. If Stray Kids isn't on you're list, please add them. Full group: God's Menu ruclips.net/video/TQTlCHxyuu8/видео.htmlsi=QeZ0MK3Zywrk9_Ss Felix: Deep End ruclips.net/video/1RafE4AHkNc/видео.htmlsi=R7OPC8ElRTe_9LiU & a Felix short of him randomly singing for a few seconds: ruclips.net/user/shorts-0lnWDF78R8?si=jvOdtyoXpy89-OiU ❤🧡💛💚💙💜
Have you ever heard of Straight No Chaser? They are nowhere near the level of Pentatonix but are so much fun to watch. They do their own version of All About That Bass that I would love to see you watch. May not be the best for an analysis, but perfect for bass appreciation. Just a suggestion.
I heard that Kirsten kept blowing out her candle, if you look at times she has a plastic flame, instead of a regular candle. Love your thoughtful insights! interestingly - this was the batcave in the original Adam West Batman series!
trying again to ask favorably for you to react and analysis of Munx Gregoriana's cover of halo's theme in the echo chapel. as an operatic singer, i think this will peak your intrigue. happy holidays and happy new years eve :D
I have enjoyed your Pentatonix Christmas video reactions. Thank you. Pentatonix is amazing. I listen to their Christmas music year-round so I was thrilled by the reactions and that you've fallen back in love with them.
So awesome!! I love their arrangements and voices.. have seen them 4or 5 times now! I have followed them since Sing-Off ( miss that show) I prefer coed them to win and they did!
You should check out Jordan Smith’s performance on The Birth of the king from Tommee Profit. I love the live version at the Grand Ole Opry. There are so many amazing vocals. Tommee Profit is brilliant composer/ producer and songwriter.
I know that Elisabeth covered Jussi Björlings version of O Holy Night (in Swedish), but since you are a bass-barytone. I think you might enjoy this. Swedish Royal barytone with a 3000 person choir! Enjoy! ruclips.net/video/tK1sqs54Vto/видео.htmlsi=4cIegYuMuWT25Y33
PTX's version is truly beautiful. If you want to hear how this song would sound sung by the angels in Heaven, check out Voctave's version featuring Mark Lowry, the man who wrote the actual lyrics of this carol. It's transcendent and I cry every single time, no matter how many times I've heard it.
I don't care for this song lyrically, but man is it beautiful. This is one of my favorite Pentatonix songs--and yet, Vocative's version is even better.
Wish you would have done their newest Christmas song written by Kirstie called "Please Santa Please". The video is sooo cute & Kirstie does the lead vocals. Check it out. Also, check out the making of video.
Welcome back to the final day of the Pentatonix Pentathlon! I hope you enjoyed this journey through some of their greatest Xmas hits as much as I did -- it was so fun to fall back in love with this group. Please leave recommendations for any PTX songs I've missed over the years!
Aha live from Singapore….. bad ass Avi base and nuts tones from Mitch!
Have you seen their most recent Christmas song, Meet Me Next Christmas?
Thanks for the Pentathlon. Have a Merry Christmas!
This still is one of my top favorite arrangements of theirs. So beautiful! Goosebumps goes nuts when Kevin with his angel voice comes in right after that big belt and brief silence. Clever arranging. Thanks for a great analysis!
It's past time you heard this outstanding Pentatonix carol. It's an "oldie" in their terms but will always be great. Thank you, Peter. I wish you a very Merry Christmas!
This, and Hallelujah, are two of my absolute favorites from Pentatonix. They are a master class in vocal arrangements and technique, and I've loved just about every arrangement they've ever done. And you're right about them featuring Kevin towards the end! They did it in Amazing Grace, too, and a little bit in First Noel. He's so multi talented; they all are, really, but it's easy to have it slip your mind that Kevin has this beautiful voice. So when he does come in and let loose, it's a happy surprise for our brains each time. Thank you so much for this series, Peter! It's been a joy to have you react and analyze to their music again. Merry Christmas, and hugs and love from California!
This was the first PTX song I ever heard. I loved it so much, Little did I realize that they would be an important part of my Christmas tradition. First comes Voiceplay for Halloween that leads to my PTX Christmas playlist. But Mary Did You Know is still my favorite. Thank you for this drive into this wonderful group.
It always blows my mind how crisp and clean they end a song. They are so tight that they all end exactly together so you don't hear any "muddy" ending notes. So AWSOME!! I hope you listen to some of their newer Christmas songs. Thanks again Peter. I always learn so much from you. Merry Christmas !!
Kiss from a rose - Pentatonix
I’ve been listening to this song of theirs for years, not quite 10 years though, and to date it still gives me chills and goosebumps hearing it.
Interesting also that in the section just before Kevin's solo, Kirstie and Mitch are actually harmonising with vibrato. And their vibratos are in sync!
I guess it's possible when you've been singing together basically since childhood.
Exactly. Mitch and Scott can also sync their vibratos. It’s very evident in Superfruits cover of defying gravity. I’m sure them all having the same choir teacher helped too. Pretty sure the three of them could all sync vibratos perfectly. Even though Kirsties solo vibrato style has changed quite a bit the last few years. Ben Bram is also good at getting them to sing in the same style and sound when he’s in the studio while they record.
Thanks!
Thank you!
So happy to see you getting back into Pentatonix! Others I think you’d really enjoy: Kiss From a Rose, Mad World, 90s Dance Medley, When the Party’s Over and the live version of Aha! in Singapore 😊
Please do more Ptx reactions! These are awesome recommendations plus Sound of Silence!!!
he did do Sound of Silence 😊 trust me if he hadn’t it would have been on the list lol
Merry Christmas, Peter! Thank you for doing this during the week before Christmas! It was a real treat, and some of my favorite arrangements of my favorite Christmas songs! Wonderful analysis, as always!
🎄❄️⛄️🎉💙
This song usually give me chills, but Penatonix makes them extra! Your analysis add so much depth…. I don’t listen to any songs the same since I’ve been watching/listening to you! Love all your videos. Thank you for all!!
I didn't even have Avi and Scott harmonizing on my Christmas list but bam there it is! Joyeaux Noél from Louisiana ⚜
This was the first thing I heard them do! Made me cry!💜💜💜
This track, yes this one is THE BANGER.
Thanks so much Peter, for this amazing Pentathlon reactions. A wonderful gift for us pentaholics. I hope you and your family have a happy holidays ❤
My favorite Pentatonix song of all times!! Thank you 😊
This wàs gorgeous and was my first introduction to PTX back in the day.
Loved Avi's voice from the beginning notes. His timbre is so smooth. The AI says Scott is 6'3" and Avi is 5'11" if that helps.
I did see Avi say just recently that he is leaving his current management arrangement so maybe you and the bass gang can get together with him soon. Have a great holiday Peter.
I think Scott has said 6'3" with shoes, 6'2" without and 6'4" without scoliosis 😅
@@hernameispekka_Rebecca 6' 3" is what I've usually heard for Scott. My late father was 6' 2", and I can easily believe that Scott is a bit taller.
I have seen this vid literally over a thousand times, I'm sure, and it still gets a reaction, generally tears, out of me. Whatever chords they hit seem to just rake my brain the right way.
Also in response to the thoughts about Kevin, you should look at his solo stuff on his channel, his KOvers are all honestly incredible. It's just him, some loopers, and some instruments, in real time for the most part, and they're all awesome.
Great breakdown and reaction! I love how Kevin comes in at the end of Amazing Grace.
I can't believe that this is one you haven't heard. It's so so good.
If you haven’t seen their live recording of Silent Night from a cathedral in, I think, Germany, it’s definitely worth the listen!
This one blew my mind. So utterly amazing.
"God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen" is great as well
You are such a great teacher. I learn so much from each of your videos. Please keep up the work. Thanks
Nice way of wishing us a Merry Christmas so Glædelig Jul to you as well Mr. Barber
Love your festive jacket!
Peter, so glad you decided to play these five songs this year! So enjoyed hearing your take on all the songs! In case you haven’t seen it there is a live video of 12 Days of Christmas at one of their shows in 2023! Really amazing! Thanks for your time! Love your analyses!
This is the song that introduced me to Pentatonix and started me on the road to becoming a pentaholic.
LOVE this one - thank you
This is my absolute favorite carol from them. The first time I heard it I cried; it told the story of Mary as the Mother of the Christ child. After all, she was reportedly about 14yrs old and newly married to an older man, Joseph. The enormity of her situation was harrowing, to say the least…yet she trusted God. This song, soooo beautifully sung by PTX has never been outdone, IMO 💎
Love your analysis as always. If I had a musical wish it would be to have Geoff, Tim Foust, and Avi with whoever else wants to join in, do a low bass collaboration. I love how warm Avi's voice is when he sings, Geoff is just a bass god (or dragon), and Tim has it all. If the music gods are kind...
This was such a fun series!!
This has been my favourite Christmas song for years now.
Got here late but as always I’ve learned from your expert analysis. Now I need to go find the piece to listen to it straight through. They did a brilliant job with it!! Thank you Peter.
You 100% did a fantastic review!! You achieved your mission.❤❤
One of my favorites by them. I love to listen to it cranked up. It feels like light entering my entire body.
Thank you for the holiday cheer. Always love hearing how much people appreciate this special group. Amazing Grace next please.
Still 1 of my all time favorites from them is silent night Just simple the 5 of them in a church doing acapella.
Some of my other favorites though are My favorite things, please Santa please, That's Christmas to me! And so many more!
Peter would LOVE that version of Silent Night! Straight a capella arranged by Avi & Kevin! They were such an amazing team! I was so happy when I heard Kevin say they are still very good friends! ❤️
Oh and if you haven't seen it check it out. Amazing Grace, Kirsty goes higher like 5 or 6 times on her solo. Her range is insane.
He's already reacted to that one! ruclips.net/video/nR-eMViKnHA/видео.html&ab_channel=PeterBarber
💕💕 one of my absolute favorite songs of theirs.
Great analysis, and classy jacket, Peter! 🤗
Love you Peter❤❤❤
It's the reverence that sells the whole thing.
Yes, and the tenderness.
Thanks for this series! ❤
Absolutely amazing. Tx a lot. From South African Pentaholic
Merry Christmas, Peter. I'm so glad to see you dive back into PTX, I love the way you break them down.
I'm curious if you've ever heard their covers of: Problem (Scott's highs & sassy Mitch); Take on Me (Mitch's range), or; Scott's of I Should Tell Ya Momma on You (for whatever the heck you can call what he's doing in that), I believe he either privated or deleted his old stuff off his own channel when he launched Mars but it is still out there as a reupload.
Aghhhhh i'm waiting..... Merry Christmas to you 🌲Try have a bit of a rest as well as lots of fun and great things to eat and drink....
So enjoyed this today!
Kevin did the arrangement for this - he is a very devout Christian and wanted to do this one.
He also did the "calypso-feel" arrangement of "O, Come All Ye Faithful"
You couldn't ask for a better Xmas gift than to reconnect with PTX. I used to sing while working alone in big empty spaces and the reberv/echo in this song always takes me back to those moments. PTX do it so well.
Sorry .. and you don't need to answer but are you related to singer Jill Barber? "Oh My My" popped up on my playlist and while listening, I realized that it's practically A Capella already and since I've recently been watching your videos the question was born. Regardless have a great 2025! Your PTX reactions got my subscription too.
Kevin's voice is so beautiful! But he didn't think he was good enough to solo in the beginning. In the early years, he & Avi roomed together & Avi gave Kevin singing lessons! Now his sweet bell-like tenor is often mistaken for Mitch! 😮If there's no perc going on, be sure & listen for Kevin in the high notes! Even if it's just a few beats or measures w/out perc! Good example is the end of The Prayer. So many reactors think Mitch was double tracked! But that loud bell note at the end is Kevin - while Mitch soars in the background clouds! 💖
Beautiful! Thanks for reviewing this one!
I have you in my ear while I chart at work. I do ultrasound and we also use “spectral envelope”. I’ve not heard it used for music but it makes so much sense. Sound waves are sound waves
I’ve never heard this song before I heard the Pentatonix version. Christmas isn’t my holiday and I don’t purposefully listen to Christmas music but I love Pentatonix so I listen to their Christmas music.
I’d love to hear you do a review of Jordan Smith’s Phenomenally stellar rendition of “Mary did you know” ❤
This is my favorite Christmas song by Pentatonix.
This is not only my favorite song PTX ever did, it's my favorite performance of any Christmas song...although...Geoff Castellucci's Carol of the Bells is giving it a HARD run for the money right now.
Its so good!
Merry Christmas! 🎄
I remember how amazed I was by this version when I heard it. Now make sure to listen to the Voctave version, with Mark Lowry (co-writer of the song).
I knew I loved them and their music, but you explained Why? Thank you brother, I do appreciate all your knowledge and your willing to share. God bless and Take care!….. SanJoséBob
I think this is easily the best arrangement of this song.
Top tier vocalists and musicians.
I saw the pic of you with Avi and you guys look the same height.
Kevin is about 6'1" Scott is 6'4" Matt is 6'
Scott... gritt..... Oh Holy Night
Pentatonix is the group that got me into modern a cappella groups. I've enjoyed barbershop since I was kid, but I've definitely fallen in love with groups like this one (Voiceplay, Home Free, etc).
I noticed that you've reacted to some K-pop. I'd like to see more. If Stray Kids isn't on you're list, please add them. Full group: God's Menu ruclips.net/video/TQTlCHxyuu8/видео.htmlsi=QeZ0MK3Zywrk9_Ss
Felix: Deep End ruclips.net/video/1RafE4AHkNc/видео.htmlsi=R7OPC8ElRTe_9LiU & a Felix short of him randomly singing for a few seconds: ruclips.net/user/shorts-0lnWDF78R8?si=jvOdtyoXpy89-OiU ❤🧡💛💚💙💜
Have you ever heard of Straight No Chaser? They are nowhere near the level of Pentatonix but are so much fun to watch. They do their own version of All About That Bass that I would love to see you watch. May not be the best for an analysis, but perfect for bass appreciation. Just a suggestion.
I heard that Kirsten kept blowing out her candle, if you look at times she has a plastic flame, instead of a regular candle. Love your thoughtful insights!
interestingly - this was the batcave in the original Adam West Batman series!
Beautiful, stunning ❤❤❤
Mitch brings me to tears every time he sings "when you kiss your little baby, you kiss the face of God".
trying again to ask favorably for you to react and analysis of Munx Gregoriana's cover of halo's theme in the echo chapel. as an operatic singer, i think this will peak your intrigue. happy holidays and happy new years eve :D
IIRC this was the very first video where they featured Kevin in a surprise solo. Fans went nuts.
I have enjoyed your Pentatonix Christmas video reactions. Thank you. Pentatonix is amazing. I listen to their Christmas music year-round so I was thrilled by the reactions and that you've fallen back in love with them.
Kevin solos at the end of Amazing Grace... surprises all :)
Love this song. This was the first time I heard Mitch slapp
Btw, if you haven't heard Voctaves' version of this, you're missing out!
Can't wait!❤
So awesome!! I love their arrangements and voices.. have seen them 4or 5 times now! I have followed them since Sing-Off ( miss that show) I prefer coed them to win and they did!
👉 Suggestion: Mark Lowry (co- author) sings with a cappella group Voctave 'Mary, Did You Know?' (2016) - ruclips.net/video/uaRpeMT1tjQ/видео.html
You should check out Jordan Smith’s performance on The Birth of the king from Tommee Profit. I love the live version at the Grand Ole Opry. There are so many amazing vocals. Tommee Profit is brilliant composer/ producer and songwriter.
Two more Pentatonix songs you should listen to... Be My Eyes (original) and Can you feel the love tonight from Lion King.
you need to listen to "No ones mourns the wicked" Its the opera one from wicked that people keep bringing up
Merry Christmas!
If you haven't yet, you should react to the birth of PTX on the singoff!
🙏
PTX! THATS ALL!
I know that Elisabeth covered Jussi Björlings version of O Holy Night (in Swedish), but since you are a bass-barytone. I think you might enjoy this. Swedish Royal barytone with a 3000 person choir! Enjoy! ruclips.net/video/tK1sqs54Vto/видео.htmlsi=4cIegYuMuWT25Y33
Did you notice that the initial high "ooo" came from Kevin?
Please check also Christmas In Our Hearts - Pentatonix ft. Lea Salonga 🤍
merry xmas Peter.
have you heard ceelo greens version. the best I've heard❤❤
PTX's version is truly beautiful. If you want to hear how this song would sound sung by the angels in Heaven, check out Voctave's version featuring Mark Lowry, the man who wrote the actual lyrics of this carol. It's transcendent and I cry every single time, no matter how many times I've heard it.
I don't care for this song lyrically, but man is it beautiful. This is one of my favorite Pentatonix songs--and yet, Vocative's version is even better.
Wish you would have done their newest Christmas song written by Kirstie called "Please Santa Please". The video is sooo cute & Kirstie does the lead vocals. Check it out. Also, check out the making of video.
This type of stuff really makes me wish I could sing. I can go really low but I have a horrible ear, can't carry a tune in a bucket.
See Gabriel Henrique's latest work! 😄
Scott and Kevin are both very tall. Scott is about 6’3 (and would be even taller if not for his scoliosis) while Kevin is 6’1
You MUSTT listen to Silent Night. It's live recording! Its ethereal !!
You must react to Dan Vascs O holy night it is incredible please it’s Christmas what a great time to do this love ya man you won’t be sorry