Pentatonix, New York City, April, 2014
Between the Section 101 clients, and our work with the Quantum Collective, I get invited to a lot of shows. I am always excited to see new music, or a performance by a band I’ve followed for years, but nothing really prepared me for Pentatonix – a Section 101 client of four years – and their show at the Beacon Theatre in New York City. It was their 2nd sold out show at the venue, and the last date on this leg of their North American tour before leaving for a sold-out tour of Europe.
While there is a long list of things that made this show so incredible, it really came down to quality. From the sound, to the music, to the song choices, the audience, the vibe, and of course, the group themselves, everything about the show was of the highest quality.
Pentatonix is the only act of its kind doing what these guys are doing, creating music by using just their voices, while making it mainstream in a way it hasn’t been before. They have original songs, yes, but they also interpret popular songs in a personalized way; it’s a thrill when one of your favorite tunes gets the “Pentatonix treatment.” It’s really astounding to see that live.
To complement what they were doing vocally, Pentatonix utilized a light show to brilliant effect. The lights added a sophistication I’d never seen in a live performance before. Red, white, orange and blue lights danced along to the music, as if the notes had come alive on stage. It was unique, beautiful and distinct.
Along with the musical history they provide each night during their performance – their Evolution of Music (starting in the 11th Century!) is even more amazing live than the video on their site, PTX also took the time to share their own personal history with the audience, letting us in on how these five found each other, won Season 3 of “The Sing Off” and transcended all expectations to become a bonafide success. Beatoxer Kevin got the biggest applause of the evening when he brought a cello out onstage and performed an original composition while beatboxing over it. Wow.
This was one of these all-too-rare all ages outings that truly appeal to every demographic – the audience at The Beacon proved as much. What was also apparent was how much Kevin, Avi, Scott, Mitch and Kirstin love music. They are first and foremost music fans. Their genuine reverence is what makes their performances so authentic. There was singing, there was dancing, there was joy – and that was just in the audience! If you get the opportunity to see Pentatonix in concert, do not miss the chance.
