An unexpected night out
I’m still on holiday, in Majorca. One day, as I aimlessly wandered around exploring the resort, I came upon a poster advertising the Pollensa Music Festival. And unexpectedly, I recognised one of the groups performing – the Swingle Singers.
Although you may not know the name, their work is heard in many an odd place, for example in Glee. singing all the a capella bits. They’ve also been heard in the odd advert and pop tune. Their sound is quite distinctive – a capella means they use no musical instruments at all, and even their drum sounds are done by beatboxing. I think it’s a great sound.
So I managed to get myself a ticket, and then managed to get myself to the venue (no thanks to the local bus company). And what a great night!
The concert was in the Convert of Santa Domingo, in an open courtyard – a splendid venue on a warm summer night. And the group were, as expected, brilliant. I’ll admit that sometimes the harmonies go from being beautiful to complicated, or even just very interesting, but nonetheless it’s the best use of 8 voices that I’ve ever heard. Some of it just made the hairs stand on the back of my neck. And other parts just left me grinning. (Their “Flight of the Bumblebee” is just amazing).
If you don’t believe me, check them out on YouTube or google them.
An unexpected, but very splendid night out!
August 29th, 2010 at 21:40
You got to see/hear the Swingle Singers … live. Respect.
August 29th, 2010 at 22:09
Heard some of them being interviewed on Radio Ulster a couple of months back. Absolutely amazing, and would love to see them live!