Classical musician reacts & analyses: CHAINS by AVI KAPLAN

[@SirHairless]

Check out this reaction next! kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3a3nWl9bqqtf6M

[@SBQDawn]

try this one of Chains kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXzMYYqbiLerrKcsi=Ak8DxTLq09lBAC5h Live from KZbin Space LA

[@kimsowles4044]

Also another great Avi song is When I'm A Fool ( live at Sunset Sound).

[@mariesmith6494]

Great song! Chains was used in the TV show 'The Blacklist'. Avi has had other music used in TV shows and films as well.

[@sharonh951]

Love this song. It was also used on the new show "Fire Country". Very fitting for the scene too.

[@carlaemerson1195]

Thank you for reacting to Avi ❤❤❤❤ When I'm a Fool the Sunset Sound live version is very bass too but way more upbeat! Probably 1 of my favorites ❤

[@readerlistener5402]

I always enjoy your reactions. I love how you feel and interpret the music you listen to. Avi is a gift in this auto tuned music world we exist in currently. Keep up the fantastic work.

[@SirHairless]

[@loritoigo8020]

If you play Avi they will come! His fans are as diverse as his music and they are fiercely dedicated to him. Im one of them and dearly love his music and the beautiful man that we know and love. More please.😅

[@kimsowles4044]

Always an immediate click when you do Avi ❤

[@gailseatonhumbert]

Nice analysis. I think some of the topic selections in this music were also because he had been confined to relatively upbeat pop for so long with Pentatonix. Run to You and Love Again are both Avi and Kevin authored songs in Pentatonix.

[@jill9837]

This song brings me to tears regularly, I think anyone who has lived through dark times can relate to it. Avi has a way of reaching into your life and shining light on those feeling.

[@mariawilliams4941]

A great reaction as usual Black is the colour with Peter Hollis is really worth a listen Avi goes low 💜

[@Dr.Giudicessi]

This

[@heatherhuard]

OMG YES!!!!!!!

[@cocohol3513]

Yes!

[@beckyv3369]

Check out Avi and Peter Hollens - Black is the Color of My True Loves Hair.

[@shirleymoffat3338]

To contrast the trapped and desperate feeling of 'Chains', try the title track from the 'Floating On a Dream' album - it's very different. 'Born in California' is very 'country' and 'All is Well' 7Layers Session is just beautiful. I'm really enjoying your Avi reactions!

[@SirHairless]

Thank you!

[@lellyluv302]

Ohhh I love “All is Well”

[@5thgentexan95]

Thanks for another great reaction! I always learn something new on your channel! This is one of my favorites too. If you want to hear another Avi original with both highs and lows check out 70s vibe The Summit.

[@tommieev5589]

Your analysis made me love this song even more than I already did. Your description of the guitar strumming made me understand a little more how this song still feels somewhat hopeful even amidst the losing battle. Thank you.

[@SirHairless]

Very well-said! 🙏

[@mateusbelmontedossantos1019]

@SirHairless, I love your reaction videos, they are very instructive and contentful. This video was one of them, and really, the music is simple; but, we can see several aspects of it. Thanks for the video 🤜🤛. And please react to Avi Kaplan - when I'm a fool in the (Sunset sound ). It's very cool. Greetings from Brazil 🤝

[@SirHairless]

Thank you!

[@pamscarr8696]

Avi doesn't just have a nice whistle voice, especially utilized in his overtone singing, but he is also a master whistler. Here is a unique sound he made in a PTX Christmas song they did. PTX, Angels We Have Heard On High 24 seconds in, you can hear Avi using his voice to make organ chimes, sounds. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHKwq3R_fZZlr8U He goes from some deep notes to these chimes. Sometimes I hear him do something with his voice and have to say. "move over Dimash"!

[@dorrit_rosen]

Thank you for your reaction to this song. Avi does indeed reach deep into our souls. Imo, he is not only a phenomenal singer but also a poet. For more of his impressive range, I suggest “The summit” and for an ethereal experience “Otherside“. I look forward to your next reaction to Avi.

[@lellyluv302]

Yes, I also love The Summit (if I’m not mistaken I think it has an MV)

[@laurenlowe335]

Great reaction!

[@SirHairless]

Thanks!

[@charlottevan_8]

This has always been a favorite of mine, as well. While there are live versions of "Chains" on KZbin (including some of my own, recorded at some of his concerts I've attended since 2019; and by the way, he uses a vocal harmonizer live to split his whistling), the studio version is my preferred one, because of the deep drama and emotion in it. I had commented on your reaction to PTX's "Run To You", but it was somehow deleted. What I had said in regard to Avi's involvement in the writing and arranging of that song was that his current music, "Chains" in particular, shows just how much of an influence he had. In lyrics, as well. Listen for some similarities, such as in the lyric "I've been here before, tethered and torn. I can't take any more..." It harkens back to the line in "Run To You" of "I have broken bones and tattered clothes. I've run out of time". Very Avi.

[@AW-ic4rc]

You're really great. It's great to listen to you..

[@SirHairless]

Cheers!

[@AnnikaRamhqvist]

Yes! Super happy for this reaction ❤ it’s one of my favorites. It’s heavy and allows you to feel down when you need to and then he comes with other songs that give you hope and brings you back up. ❤ you go from Chains to It knows me and then I’ll get by. Obviously I love the other songs and albums as well I just feel those three work so well together 🥰

[@lellyluv302]

Yes, these 3 songs

[@mooses-n-gooses9712]

Black is the color of my true loves hair... It's a must! Avi and Peter are incredible, stunning, vibrant, soulful, moving and mind blowing. And about 100 other things haha. Please react to it. You will be pleased you did.

[@pepinosylvie8887]

Love your reaction as always 👍 I know you receive a lot of requests but please, react to He don't love you right 🙏 this song is so wonderful... The melody, the lyrics, the piano, the choir in the background wich by the way, it's only Avi harmonising with himself, everything in this song is perfection.... It's mesmerizing, it haunts 😍 really hope to see you react to this one 🤞 Thanks 😘

[@TrishaW13]

Love that song!!!

[@sharonh951]

My favorite song on the album. Chokes me up every time because I can relate to the lyrics. Fortunately, that situation is far behind me now. My other favorite is "Try To Get It Right" . Avi's music and voice can help heal the soul..😌❤

[@pepinosylvie8887]

@@sharonh951 so funny that you said that, He don't love you right is my favorite and just after this one, it's Try to get it right, just like you 😉😘

[@indielemons5117]

PLEASEEEEEE react to his first project Avriel and the Sequoias!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Fields and Pier, Sage and Stone, and Quarter Past Four are my absolute favorite things Avi has ever created

[@annicajakobsson]

Quarter past four is my favorite song, not just of his but over all. It’s my go to mantra to calm myself down if I ever get stressed or worried.

[@indielemons5117]

@@annicajakobsson Me too, favorite song of all time it never fails to amaze me

[@heatherhuard]

I am always drawn to Song for the Seeker.

[@shirleymoffat3338]

I'll always vote for 'Quarter Past Four'!

[@SirHairless]

Thank you for the recommendation!

[@erick-gd7wo]

Listening to AK feels like a sonic detox, going back to organic way of music making, acoustic instruments and deep meaning lyric.

[@beverlyburch4467]

Avi's voice is mesmerizing. He puts so much of his heart and soul into his songs. Enjoyed your reaction.

[@SirHairless]

[@rachellephipps1361]

One of my favorites is Full moon. It feels a little dark but so beautiful. Avi does all the background vocals and it is amazing. Please consider.

[@staciemoisa4884]

Thanks for another break down of why I love Avi's music so much. You really understand Avi's music! ❤ He has a way of reaching my soul like no one else.

[@rayofsunshine72cz]

One of my favorite. Lyrics with deep meaning and Avi's rich, resonant and smooth bass / baritone is the best combination. Btw, Avi is releasing his new single "Feel Alright" on Feb 2. Thanks for your enlightening reactions.

[@Maria...-mo5qm]

Avi's music owns the secret code to enter directly into my emotional core and stir its innermost angst feelings, while embracing me with a warm and soothing sensation of hopeful strength. It's powerfully unsettling and beautifully simple, as most of our intimate human struggles. This hit me hard today, Sir... thank you for being here sharing your beautiful light with us and, please, stay safe too🤍

[@SirHairless]

🙏🙏🙏

[@rlhcat7662]

Another incredible song from Avi is an old English folk song that he did as a duet with a guy called Peter Hollens. PLEASE react to Avi Kaplan Black is the Color. It appeared online about two years before he left PTX, and is still one of my favorite things he has ever done.

[@elenahume8295]

AVIII IS PURE TALENT ❤

[@GailA6327]

TY for your reaction, Avi is my favorite solo artist. He’s dropping a new single on the 2nd and it has a completely different sound. (He released a sound bite)

[@stephanie3230]

This is one of his songs that has actually been played on a tv show.

[@KarlaWhite_Karlajkitty]

Yes - on The Blacklist- in a pivotal scene too :)

[@KarlaWhite_Karlajkitty]

Season 8 Episode 11

[@stephanie3230]

@KarlaWhite_Karlajkitty I think this was also on that Fire Country show too.

[@SirHairless]

Cool!

[@jasgem76]

Avi is so uniquely talented. His voice and the way he uses it just reaches right deep into your soul. When you said he is deeply spiritual, you're dead on the money. I'm not at all religious, but I am deeply spiritual and i think he just connects in that spiritual realm in a way that is very unique.

[@deborahhardin]

Wow what a great analysis & teaching, I really enjoyed it. Avi is a "Spiritual" person and it really comes through in his lyrics. Such a powerful song and message so many ppl can relate to. So nice to see you enjoy this song & lyrics as much as we do. 👏😄 Thanks for reacting again to Avi.

[@deborahhardin]

BTW, if you want to hear Avi's Lowest bass register he posted 2 "short reels" last year on his youtube. One was called "Hoist The Colors", and the other one is "Find The Cost of Freedom". 🔥

[@annicajakobsson]

Avi typically does simple but so so powerful songs, and, as you said, it does something with you when you listen to it. His whistles are awesome, so cool to hear and see him do it live.

[@debbiedyson638]

Live version of this song--Chains Live from KZbin space LA.

[@michellejones4911]

I was also looking for a word to describe that tribal feeling! It takes me to a dark night around a fire with Celtic/Viking/ Native peoples drumming! Thanks for the reaction. Well done 👍🏻 Blessings from your ladies barbershop gal in Louisiana!

[@SirHairless]

[@hawkeyescoffee6399]

Avi has possibly the most melodic and captivating whistling I've ever heard. The vids of him performing live with the whistling just kinda blow my mind.

[@kimsowles4044]

I do live any sing with Avi's whistle!!!!

[@mariawilliams4941]

Hi, I think you’d like Avi’s GET DOWN there’s no video. Also his SUNSET STUDIO live “WHEN I’M A FOOL”. Also “it knows me”

[@betsyvondracek4009]

Lord this is powerful and deep. I can relate to this song- been there- done that. You can choose to reflect and learn something positive from hard times or let it affect you negatively I chose the second option. I love it!! Great analysis and reaction You slayed it once more🗡️❤.

[@cocohol3513]

Powerful is a great word to describe Avi's music! In so many of his songs you are transported to another realm. Otherside is another song that transports me to a wonderful place! Also, I'm still hoping you do a comparison of Aberdeen and the alternate version. I love how the feeling of the song can change so much. As always love your reaction and analysis! Thanks and cheers!

[@cocohol3513]

Also, if you want to hear Avi whistling live, he did a livestream fundraiser in 2019 and performed House of the Rising Sun. It's just Avi and his guitar. The picture quality is not great but the audio is good. I believe the channel that captured the livestream is Macey Huber (?)

[@tasia2174]

I hope you'll also listen to the Alternative version of this as well! I'd love to hear you compare and contrast them!

[@valenciathequeen8994]

Wonderful reaction to this song. Most of Avi’s songs are about anxiety and depression and how he has overcome it.

[@cynthiamiller483]

What I enjoy about your analysis is that you attach human feelings to the music. This is what sets you apart from other reactors. Avi tends to bring out deep emotions with his songs. Thanks for making me think in a different way.

[@SirHairless]

Thank you!

[@miriamlester795]

Thank you for reacting to one of my favorite Avi songs! I love how much he shares through his music. It is my therapy 💚💚💚💚

[@kayecastleman6353]

Yes, most of Avi's songs are quite simple musically. I think it allows us to focus on his voice, and especially his lyrics. I could hardly listen to most of his earluer releases. There was so much anguish and struggle in them that I found it overwhelmling. His voice carries those emotions so effectively... those deep, resonant tones and all the minor chords do get us in the feels. Avi's an accomplished whistler, too. And have you heard his overtones? Always loving your analyses!

[@joycenorthwind6874]

Really loved your analyses of his music. I find it interesting that he never resolves how the chains are weighing him down so the music didn't reach a lighter point either.

[@tbowling64]

You might really enjoy Fields and Pier. Lots of ear candy. Kevin Olusola from PTX matched his voice with the cello. Amazing.

[@reginairvine3919]

If you want to hear him do some insane low bass notes, listen to him and Peter Holland's duet "Black is the Color of My True Loves Hair"

[@billytingen3567]

I have viewed several of your analyses of some of my favorite songs and I do very much appreciate your knowledge and professional explanations. Its refreshing to see someone that really knows the structure and theory but is moved by the music as well. Thank You! Cheers!

[@SirHairless]

[@heloisalopes1734]

Wowww que análise primorosa!!! Eleva o nível de percepção e detalhes de uma maneira grandiosa. Você é sensacional !!! Abraços carinhosos do Brasil ❤❤❤🇧🇷

[@cocohol3513]

One last comment...Avi is releasing a new song, Feel Alright, on Feb 2. His comment on this song is, " It has elements of things you've heard from me, but it is whole other world." Sounds intriguing, right?

[@a2agata]

Спасибо за знакомство с Ави!

[@evasecchi]

Avi is an incredible musician! If you want to hear low notes, I suggest The Summit, Fields and Pier, Get Down, When I'm a Fool, I'm only getting started. They are all wonderful songs. I love your reactions 🙌🏻

[@SirHairless]

Thank you for the recommendations

[@suzannedammodonnell9599]

Thanks again for reacting to Avi. Avi is a man of many talents, and whistling is just one. You should see him live! Have you heard? Avi is releasing a new song on Feb. 2. He says it’s different from any of his other songs. I’m just giddy with excitement! 😄😉

[@niallkalen6732]

Relajante y profundo sonido. Hermosa pieza musical. Gracias por compartir. Un fuerte abrazo.

[@glendamcgrady1244]

Thanks for reacting.

[@Emilaria]

React to all of his songs! Lol He's anazing and can't write a bad one.

[@lellyluv302]

I agree with you about the fade out on this song. It gets me so deep in the feels that any other ending would feel too abrupt in my opinion. I need time to slowly surface back up before moving on.

[@juliewade1393]

Seriously heavy song 🎵 I think maybe some real soul searching going on. I love his bass voice. Watching him with Pentatonix he seemed a very emotional person both happy and sad😢. When he left I know he was having some struggles in his personal life. Yes I think I feel it in his solo music very lovely. Hoping however he can handle them. Another great reaction!

[@SirHairless]

Thanks Julie! This one certainly was a heavy one - powerful indeed

[@GT_Void]

It was quite effectively used in the show "The Black List".

[@madelynadams332]

I really like Avi. There is a man named Tim Storms who is listed in the Guiness Book of World Records as having not only the lowest singing voice but also a ten octave range. He has several videos on KZbin. I was sad when Avi left Ptx but happy he is doing his own music. I also like the new bass in Ptx, Matt Sallee. Matt brings a different dimension to Ptx.

[@Burrowingowl315]

Another informative video. I believe that everyone in Pentatonix has an individual set of videos. Superfruit which is Mitch and Scott preform as a duo or with other singers.

[@lindabergstrom6650]

I think he got his message across to you. You picked up on it perfectly!

[@VTL77]

Can't wait for you to do Full Moon or My Queen. There's just something special about them. Avi has a way of making music that sounds unlike anything you've heard before.

[@maryvarghese5088]

Beautiful. 👍🏼

[@Perfumesfordummies]

I recommend these based on this song reaction. David by Noah gundersen, death of me by city and colour(Dallas green) and if you want to try Spanish music there’s a band call Zoe - poli love mtv unplugged. Enjoy

[@Perfumesfordummies]

I forgot, come all you weary by thrice.

[@PsychProff]

Can you see the musical notes in your mind when you listen to music? So amazed at your talent and insight! Many thanks :)

[@SirHairless]

Haha I wish! It's less a visual thing and more a....feeling? 🎶

[@PsychProff]

@@SirHairless Well, kind sir, thank you for sharing :) You have a true gift. I love music, and your ability to take us down to the level of granularity for these songs, in your understandable way, is simply amazing and wonderful to watch. I have turned several family members on to your channel, which is now a family staple. Grateful for your time and effort 🥰🎼🎹

[@SirHairless]

@@PsychProff Appreciate you and your kind words Very best wishes

[@lorriredmon8212]

I don't know how to describe how Avi's music makes me feel other than a bit uncomfortable. I'm a deep feeler like he is so that might have something to do with it. I have been at those depths so I don't like re-visiting them too often. It's a testament to how successfully he gets his feelings across. His rich deep voice is special too. I'm glad you like and appreciate his uniqueness. Thanks!

[@SirHairless]

Oo perhaps! Uncomfortable is an interesting word to use to describe music I find 🎶 Can mean many different things! Thanks!

[@WilliamJohnson-r7l]

Please react to chains alt version

[@marjaleena9465]

can you react to Information Overload by Holy Smokes? thanks!

[@michelegillespie1971]

Do otherside.

[@michaelbradley7529]

I was expecting or hoping for an ultra-low note somewhere in there, but apparently it was not meant to be.

[@SirHairless]

I've relistened to this a number of times since recording and he actually does sing ultra-low notes. They're just super difficult to hear and in octaves with the melody! When I heard them my face was

[@michaelbradley7529]

@@SirHairless Maybe your definition of ultra low in different from mine.

[@SirHairless]

@@michaelbradley7529 He sings E1. If that doesn't count then I don't know what does 😅

[@michaelbradley7529]

@@SirHairless It must be buried in the harmony because I missed it.

[@SirHairless]

As I mentioned above, it's in octaves with the melody@@michaelbradley7529 - it's really quite difficult to hear, I only noticed it on my third or fourth listen, and with noise-cancelling headphones and with the volume up pretty high 🎶

[@susiepingleton3614]

There is only one good spirit …….the gift Jesus left us as Christians…..The Holy Spirit!!! He came to comfort us and give us power to live in victory!!

[@janeramirez8767]

Am I really so vain as to think that your words at 11:20 were about me? Mea culpa--I did say, in a comment on your recent reaction to Home Free's "Mayday," that I never like fade-outs because they seem lazy to me, revealing a lack of creativity. However, I also said that Home Free certainly does NOT suffer from a paucity of creativity, so they must have had a reason beyond the scope of my understanding for that deliberate artistic choice. Avi most assuredly gets a pass from me as well, based on the same criterion: a large body of work that demonstrates variety, imagination, and creativity over and over again. Here, I actually feel it...the fade-out conjures the relentless continuity of the weight of those chains. So maybe I'm learning.

[@SirHairless]

Hey Jane! Haha yes I remember your comment and it did trigger my thought process - but don't worry, I'm just talking about in general as I know a number of people who've said this about repeated phase-outs to end a song. A lot of music from earlier decades finishes in this way, and many young people (I've noticed) have mentioned this to me over the years. Quite interesting!

[@thesweetone8968]

I have always loved Avi and it broke my heart when he left Pentatonix. But listening to him solo, I can completely understand why he felt like he had to leave. His lyrics have so much depth and healing. I would love to see your reaction to It Knows Me. One of Avi's early releases. It is not one that is recommended often though I don't know why. You are a great reactor.

[@l.c.taylor507]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXzMYYqbiLerrKcfeature=shared - Live version