(Pentatonix) Avi Kaplan - Change on the Rise REACTION

[@uniquely_mo]

This is essentially Avi’s “fight song.” He has been very vocal about his mental health struggles, and in interviews and podcasts, he’s said that Change on the Rise is an important song for him because he wrote it during his fight with depression and this essentially being him finding strength to beat it. Most of Avi’s songs are deep and you can feel his journey back to being healthy and happy. He wrote his own music even during the PTX years, but kept it to himself. He has also stated in interviews that while his time in Pentatonix was “beautiful,” and a time he will always be honoured to have experienced, the style of music (as well as the city living and fast pace of that lifestyle) was just not ‘him’ and that it led to his creativity, and even his love of music, dying. He didn’t even want to create music by the end, and he knew he had to come out before that took over. After a period of time on his own, he managed to find his love of music again, and found his ability to write again. His style leans more to the folk genre in many post but he’s also quite eclectic (and I asked him in his recent virtual ‘meet and greet’ if he was ever likely to make a classical or opera album, to which he replied that he wouldn’t do an opera album but plans to do classical at some point). His opera training is so beautiful so I can’t wait for him to create that. ETA: Avi has also said many times that he is vocal about it , and written his songs about it, because he wants his music to help people. And that if he helps even one person going through similar times then he has achieved that goal

[@kiki-lv4ut]

Thank you for the explanation ❤️

[@elenahume8295]

WOW THANK YOU FOR EXPLAINING US, THAT MAKES IT MORE SPECIAL, AVI IS GREAT.

[@kayecastleman6353]

Avi was always the more serious member of PTX. He tended to deeper, more thoughtful themes. I think the years with the group brought out his more fun-loving side, which was probably a great experience for him, but going solo has opened up the deep reservoir of self-reflection and existential analysis that is his truest self. And that voice is the perfect vehicle to share those profound messages. Avi is a powerhouse!

[@carladewitt1947]

Well said.

[@RosheenQuynh]

@@carladewitt1947 Agreed!

[@elenahume8295]

TOTALLY AGREEEE

[@kathyfolkerts8639]

I never get tired of seeing people react to Avi's solo work for the first time!!!

[@jill9837]

I've always felt that this song was about fighting the darkness, either internal or societal. It's about bringing light to the darkness. It feels like a combination of tribal and spiritual. Very powerful

[@amandapruner9860]

Avi is my favorite singer ever! Always my favorite PTX member. I think every true Avi fan agrees, he was way underutilized in PTX and we love is solo work and wish him the best on his journey! We also eagerly wait the release of his new album coming out #soon.

[@heatherb_77]

There have been so many rumors to what really happened for Avi to leave PTX (aside from the obvious- the hectic schedule/ lack of time with loved ones) that we all have to accept no one will ever really know except for the original five of PTX. Regardless- Avi was meant to be with PTX when it all began, Avi left and created something beautiful where he could get in touch with his spirit through his music at the time he felt right, and Matt came in with the right energy to fit in with the brand that Pentatonix has been building and they have grown as well. Overall- we should be considered doubly blessed! Love your reactions!

[@cathy8227]

Thank you for saying this. I completely agree and you put it beautifully.

[@heatherb_77]

@@cathy8227 Thanks! It just gets irritating when you go into some comment sections and it's a complete Avi vs. PTX disaster (not that I saw that here.) We should just appreciate all the beauty that had been created individually or together.

[@cathy8227]

@@heatherb_77 I agree. Particularly when that happens on a reactors video, especially if they are fairly new to PTX. I was going to say something but you worded it so well.

[@SamZapadinsky]

If there was a love button for this comment, I would have SMASHED it. Well put!

[@heatherb_77]

@@SamZapadinsky Thanks! No judgement here- they are ALL equally talented in their own unique ways!

[@cathyboyce6457]

I asked for this, too! THANK YOU ~~ Love your reaction! Not all acapella BUT all vocals are Avi!!! And, yes EPIC! Love watching someone discovering the amazing Avi!! One reactor once stated " you don't listen to Avi's voice, you experience it!"

[@luckywanderer5107]

Yes. His solo stuff is awesome. I loved him in Pentatonix, but I love him more on his own.

[@larrywt656]

Most of Avi's solo music is more mellow, very soul-cleansing and introspective. This is his most intense solo release. It's also a MASTERPIECE!! Avi uses instruments in his music, although this song only features drums and an organ. All of the vocals are him. Avi has called this his fighting depression music. I feel there may be more to it than that however. Avi's departure from Pentatonix was amicable at first, but things got nasty after the lawyers got involved. I believe a LOT of lyrics in this song refer to his struggles immediately after the departure. It was more than a year (nearly two years in fact) between his departure and him beginning to record again...and there's a lot of an unknown story and rumors in the middle. It's now pretty much known that he still has a close relationship with Kevin, but apparently no relationship at all with Scott, Mitch & Kirstie. Avi recorded an EP with his side group Avriel & The Sequoias while still with Pentatonix which was more folk/roots-oriented, but he needed to get away from PTX in order to be able to record the type of music he loved because he just didn't have the time to devote to it while still in the group. His solo music is well-worth checking out, because it is PHENOMENAL!

[@judithboggs2196]

I am so blown away by the information this group is sharing. I have been expressing my own need for Avi's healing/battling music, as I have warred with deep depression most of my adult (69 years) life. I wanted so much to know more about Mr. Kaplan than wikipedia shared, and here you all are! I just discovered this channel tonight, playing my "new" warfare song, though this reaction is posted as a year ago....I just want to cry because others see what I see, hear what I hear, are moved as I am moved. Avi should be titled a "National Treasure" and "Bard to the Nation".

[@pliny8308]

If I could upvote this more than once, I would! :) I adore Avi Kaplan; one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard.

[@denagillespie6961]

He’s amazing!! Definitely one of my favorite artist and his new album is awesome! Love that you love Avi as much as me 💫💫💫

[@debbierhodes4479]

I love Avi and this song. Everytime I hear it I think of the Vikings marching. I believe he and Kevin have stayed really close. They were like brothers.

[@RiverOwl427]

Sometimes livestreams Kevin made fun of Avi. He has a really kind sense of humor.

[@revkaelenelord]

This is so phenomenal how Avi puts a story about the Underground Railroad onto film with him belting the story out like an old black spiritual song. He absolutely kills it with his voice and the imagery!

[@kathyfolkerts4433]

Avi ROCKS.

[@annadreamsart9756]

There are some instruments but all the vocals, including background and that super deep boom, are pure Avi. He's legendary! You should hear this live. The floor trembles.

[@lindaosmon5224]

Avi's reason for leaving Pentatonix, was that he couldn't keep up with their tour schedule. As you can see Avi is a very Outdoor person, and he had little time to even be home with his family and nature. There were no hard feelings, he actually was the one who picked Matt to replace him. Yes his voice is amazing, I wish people would stop comparing his and Matt's voices. Matt does an incredible job with Pentatonix, Avi's voice was and is very unique.

[@charlottevan_8]

There's a lot of controversy around the picking of Matt as a replacement. Apparently the rumor that Avi selected him or had a big part in it is just that - rumor. I've said that myself in comments in the past and got jumped on. C'est la Vie...

[@lindaosmon5224]

@@charlottevan_8 ...well I was listening to Scott being interviewed on a Pod Cast one time and he said the same thing. I am not saying Avi hand picked him, but he was the one who introduced him to the group.

[@kbbeers4274]

Matt along with many others audition without knowing who he was auditioning for. Avi had nothing to do with selecting Matt. Avi gave props on YT to Matt when he was selected. Avi later retracted every comment he made under PTX. Lots of rumors floating. I’m sure there is more behind his departure but seriously, who cares? Avi is doing well on his own path and PTX is continuing to thrive all the same. Continuing to beat a dead horse is counterproductive.

[@lindaosmon5224]

@@kbbeers4274 ..I was just going by what Scott said when he was being interviewed on a podcast. Anyway totally irrelevant, both Avi and Matt are awesome.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

@@kbbeers4274 Avi's comment to Matt congratulating him when the video Havana came out is still up. Avi removes posts from social media. He took down everything of his prior to Pentatonix but Tumbleweed for example. He prefers privacy which I totally understand.

[@pat_in_va8605]

Avi Kaplan's solo music is not acapella. He accompanies himself on guitar quite often. He also has some songs out as "Avriel and the Sequoias" where they use instruments. As far as his style of music it falls into the category of "Americana." Sort of a modern folk style. He is, quite often, in residency in Nashville but he is not traditional "Country" music at all. Whether you "react" to any of his other music, I do suggest giving it a listen. His works are not the same genre as Pentatonix in the least. He did leave on "good terms" from Pentatonix in that there was not some huge blow-up or fight. The reason he left seems to be a combination of him needing to be with his family much more than touring would allow (his mother was battling cancer during that time), and possibly some bouts with depression. Whatever the reason, I think his music would have lured him away. This is a whole other world away from Pentatonix and the L. A. scene and I think he was destined to give us this music.

[@nikkibanning176]

Agree that you should listen to Black Is the Color of my True Love's Hair. Early with Peter Hollers while still with PTX. For songs with his higher vocal range, Quarter Past Four is great. For a mix with Avi matching the cello in the song, Fields an Pier. For "oh my God can he touch my soul" Full Moon recorded at KZbin studios. All his music reflects his beautiful soul.

[@Jsman525]

Avi is my favorite too! From his music and what I hear he went through some depression. See I'll get by.

[@TheCrayonMaster]

oh yeah, he was 100% underused in Pentatonix. I was glad when he went out onto his own because I knew they were underusing him. We get to finally hear more of his voice.

[@brodee2002]

He's my favorite as well... 🥰 AVI-OUSLY... 😉

[@uniquely_mo]

Hahaha, I saw a face mask with that written on it yesterday! Brilliant :D

[@AugustDeb]

We see what you did there...lol

[@tasia2174]

The look on your face the moment Avi started singing had me laugh out loud. I love your reactions so much!

[@lesaahrenstein6360]

This was done 2 years after he left Pentatonix. Avi had Depression As do I. For most people with depression because I cannot speak for him But the touring schedule is enough to put me into a A person who suffers depression into a depression also his mother was sick. The song is about him coming out of his depression, the change on the rise. He sings out for the jubilee Because when you're depressed Nothing brings a smile to your Face. Nothing makes you feel Better. What good is a man who has lost his soul how can a man take a stand if his fire has gone cold. That perfectly sums up Depression. So I think it begins with him in front of the fire Talking about This change That's going to happen and the fire represents the fight and in the end you have the blue skies signifying the depression has lifted. Do not doubt for one second That one must fight depression . And many other reactors have Describe it as a war cry. As far as why he looks like Jesus I'm not really sure. But he did have the beard mustache and long hair in Pentatonix

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

It is just because of traditional Christian paintings. Many reactors are not familiar with the Roots/Americana music that Avi is working in now and how many of those artists have the same full beard and long hair. One artist whose music Avi just recommended last week J. Tillman looks an awful lot like Avi in his hair length and beard style. So does Sam Beam's beard whom Avi has admired since high school.

[@gerrynowaynoche]

Pentatonix the group is legit!!! First time hearing this dude doin solo. Soul searching type of song.. DEEP!!!! 💯💜🌶🔥🔥

[@r.d.stratford106]

Powerful as hell, isn’t it? Still gives me the chills too after I don’t know how many times I’ve heard it. I always think of it as a fight song against depression and other torments of the soul, but that might just be how it hits for me. But it’s epic for sure.

[@MelaniePoparad]

Same here. Maybe because i’ve struggled with those issues, that’s how it speaks to me.

[@uniquely_mo]

He has stated that it was, in interviews. So you were both correct. A lot of his music speaks to me the same way and I think you really understand the lyrics if you’ve been there. I hope you are both well at this time. Depression is an ugly battle

[@christineschutten248]

It sounds like a spiritual fight going on. It makes my soul want to join him in battle.

[@strangeling325]

To get a bit more insight into Avi's headspace after leaving PTX, check out "Quarter Past Four" from his album he released under Avriel and the Sequoias.

[@louellamoyer5578]

Tribal is how I describe it. Avi is epic! You should hear him sing overtones! He was opera trained. He wrote this song when he was with PTX. The group tried to get him to sing it on his own YT channel. Avi is a very deep, soul searching kind of person. Thanks for reacting to this. Love your reactions!

[@charlottevan_8]

Avi left in September 2017, and "Change on the Rise" was released in March 2019 (on the same day PTX released "Come Along". Apparently the legalities involved in his departure kept him from releasing anything for at least 1 year. During that year, he did a lot of traveling and hiking, and spending time at his cabin and property near Nashville (where this video was shot, the interiors being inside his cabin). He toured the US in 2019 (I went to 3 of his awesome shows), and Europe in January 2020 (getting back to the US in time to have to cancel almost all of his US/Canada tour because of Covid-19). He has a new album due out soon.

[@tasia2174]

He didn't finish his European tour. He'll be back this coming April, and I'm so excited so I can see him!

[@charlottevan_8]

@@tasia2174 He did actually finish the European tour, then headed back to the US and was only able to do several cities before lockdown forced cancellation of the rest of the tour. I was scheduled to see him (again) in San Francisco 2 days after the cancellation. Yes, the European tour has been rescheduled (from the original November 2021) and will hopefully still be able to take place then. You will not be disappointed in any way when you see him, he puts on an amazing show. We're waiting anxiously here for any news of a new US/Canada tour, but with cases surging, it may not happen any time soon.

[@5thgentexan95]

Great reaction!!! 🔥❤️ Hope to see more of Avi on your channel!

[@oldschool72]

I think this song is going to mean something different to each individual. Some may feel like a war is brewing, some may feel an inner peace, some may feel set free, some may feel it is enlightenment, others may feel it's a sign of the end or the beginning. I don't think Avi is trying to tell a story, I think he is freeing his inner voice.

[@Bine80]

Avi is outstanding!!! His voice is so unique and versatile. He could sing almost everything from Rock, Pop, Country and all the way to Opera. This song is much different from what he did after. It was just his way to fight his demons. It's definitely a fight song.

[@cathy8227]

I love Avi's music! This song in particular is such a call to action. I never read in to it having anything to do with his leaving PTX. There is something incredibly real and hopeful with the majority of his music. My current favorites are Quarter Past Four, It Knows Me, and Aberdeen.

[@lesaahrenstein6360]

I really really really too it knows me. With him starting on a meditative trip and Showing himself being stuck on the edge of the cliff where he goes into a prison which is the prison of our mind and then when he comes out he is able to walk freely. The last scene is him going through a portal dimension than back to him meditating in then his eyes opening. I interpret The portal As he's mind Returning From it's meditative state and he has a working with Clarity. At least that's how I see it and I've been trying to understand and write down this video for quite a few Hours over Many days

[@cathy8227]

@@lesaahrenstein6360 I really like your interpretation of clarity towards the end of that video. I just went back and rewatched it. For me, there is a feeling of freedom and hopefulness that comes with the self-awareness and self honesty that I believe he is describing in the lyrics. He is an amazing lyricist and his music is often cathartic and healing, at least for me.

[@heatherhuard]

There is a drum but all the voices you hear are Avi's. Check out all his music Song for the Seeker is one of my Favs, but like PTX there is not a bad choice when it comes to Avi's music.

[@christopherbritton1840]

When Avi left PTX he came out with his EP Avriel and The Sequoias shortly after. It was music he had been working on during his time with PTX, but didn't fit the PTX style. He eventually left music all together for bit as his depression got worse, along with a bunch of other unhealthy thoughts. He had some fear on whether he made the right decision in leaving PTX, he had relationship issues, and he was still dealing with not having enough time with family and friends. He ended up moving out to Tenn. just outside of Nashville and nearer to the forest and the mountains where he felt very at home. He loves nature and taking hikes on the trails. eventually re-finding his love for music and creativity. My interpretation of the video is that he's found himself and has been sort of reborn and is wanting to let the world see his transformation and also to ignite those same fires in others and inspire them to be their better selves.The style of the song is very close to what is called "Spiritual". It's roots come from southern slavery and the slaves teaching the bible by song, Teaching the slaves about Christianity was not allowed at the time. It was also way to talk about the Underground Railroad and when it would be coming thru, all in code. It has many of the same elements you hear in this song, with the call and respond, the mentioning of the jubilee, a sign of hope and to fight for your beliefs and freedom.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

It is in a gospel music style. He uses many styles depending on the song. Blues, gospel, folk, country, bluegrass, etc. All within the Roots or Americana area.

[@christopherbritton1840]

@@gailseatonhumbert9199 this isn't in the style of gospel music. This is in the style of a southern/slave spiritual.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

@@christopherbritton1840 well that is not a genre recognized by the Billboard charts so gospel it remains to me because as a practical manner that is where you will find it grouped.

[@christopherbritton1840]

@@gailseatonhumbert9199 Indie/folk is where you'll find Avi's music. Southern/Slave Spiritual music is a dying genre, but very much a part of Americana music and is a subdivision of the gospel genre.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

@@christopherbritton1840 look I disagree and I would like you to stop badgering me. To be clear Avi's music can be classified in several different areas he is not being pigeonholed. When he covered Hey Ya! and I first heard it and heard it described as folk, several of us said no the form is bluegrass. The point is these are large areas and current classification can vary. From Fantasy records "This week, Nashville based singer-songwriter, Avi Kaplan’s highly anticipated debut EP, I’ll Get By entered Billboard’s Alternative New Artist Albums Sales chart at #2 and its Top New Artist Albums Sales chart at #3. In addition, the 7-track set landed at #6 on the Americana/Folk chart, #13 on the Current Alternative Albums chart and #16 on the Current Rock Albums chart." Basically the only thing you can say about it is it definitely doesn't run to pop music in form style or sound. The chorus and repeat phrase is used in several different forms. You hear it in spirituals but you also hear it in others. It is not a religious song anymore than Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah is.

[@davidphillips4476]

Yep!! Goose Bumps man!!!!!!!!!!! Yep!!! ready..where's my sword!!??Just the primal DRIVE!!! OH OH chill monkey's running all over!!! When that lightning strikes and the people behind him appear in the flash...ohhh wow!(and no I don't know what a chill monkey is it just hit me that way!!?) Nice reaction!!

[@miriamlester795]

All of Avi’s solo music is awesome 🔥🔥🔥 He does have a variety of vibes with his music. Get Down and Born in California are a similar rocking vibe. Otherside and Full Moon are very mellow. It Knows Me ,I’ll Get By and Song for the Thankful are very inspirational. He has new music coming down the pipe but not sure when. Essentially you can not go wrong with any Avi song. Avi has a trailer for his I’ll Get By EP on his KZbin channel that explains some of what happened between PTX and his current music. Welcome to this amazing rabbit hole of great music💚🎶💚🎶You could also check out his 1st solo project Avriel and the Sequoias, beautiful folk music😍😍😍

[@professionalvampire1]

There's some percussion throughout, and a bit of organ music during the bridge, but everything else you hear is all Avi - from the high harmonies all the way down to the low bass rumbles. And, he wrote the song, too.

[@yvonnejones9940]

My take is that this is a battlecry for himself, to regain his soul. Listen to his The Other side and the Summit to add more color to his story.

[@kellywilliams364]

I think after some time with PTX he felt suppressed and not able to use his talent the way he wanted. He may have written this about what he felt. He did start an a cappella academy for high schoolers to guide them in the vocal industry. That may be where the "leader" part in this song comes from.

[@kathrynphelps9771]

This is deep Avi. Check out more fun Avriel and the Sequoias singing Hey Ya.

[@hd.s.7722]

There was a condition, that he can't have solo career during several years after leaving PTX. And after this term he announced his gorgeous songs. Avi is a huge talent. Bass profundo is a rare singer. He is so unique and has such deep lyrics in his songs. React please to his Black is the colour - enoromous bass! Lean on me - should be listened with the closed eyes! And his famous overtones - he issinging two notes in one time. Also - PTX- Aha - live Singapoure Star Vista, Kevin - Down, Love again - orinal PTX song with Avi!

[@robinhatcher8021]

My husband from Louisiana. Cajun. This sounds like bayou

[@vivianchamberlain1278]

I agree with you, I love Avi!

[@annekyut2359]

Aviously my favorite😍

[@michaelfarmer6877]

Sounds like a song that could be in "Game of Thrones"...😎 Epic sounding

[@DisfunktionalTV]

Yes!!!

[@michaelfarmer6877]

Like Matt, but Avi is my guy...😎

[@magnushenbane4106]

I think the video corresponds to the song where he talks about bringing all the flames... I think he's referring to relighting the fire in ones soul, and sometimes it takes more than one flame.

[@piepmeyer1]

This song was actually used in an episode of Resident Alien (Ep #3, I think), and it could easily fit in an episode of Vikings or The Last Kingdom. Its such a powerful song and a call to action. Love Avi's songs, most are more folksy than this one, but still really good.

[@vickimoran1349]

He does rock!!

[@jmmuke]

You will love Avi’s duet with Peter Hollens: Black is the Color of My True Love’s Hair: IT IS Just Quintessential ART!

[@kerrikeever6531]

Anybody want to tell him he covered HeyYa! by OutKast???

[@pamscarr8696]

All voices, grunts, growls and the "choir" are Avi's voice. "Jesus vibes"....Avi is Jewish/of the tribe of Judah and Jesus was of the tribe of Judah so they might actually bear a DNA resemblance. Most of his music is more to the folk sound. Very peaceful. Some rumors of an amicable split may not be true.

[@kathrynphelps9771]

Come on, Avi announced it himself, with the group. It was for personal reasons. Don't try to dramatise.

[@lesaahrenstein6360]

Most jews myself included are from the tribe Judah

[@larrywt656]

@@kathrynphelps9771 It WAS amicable at first, but then the lawyers got involved afterwards and things got nasty. There were a lot of hurt feelings on both sides. The group refuses to talk about it and Avi just says he's moved on.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

@@kathrynphelps9771 there are issues. Everyone is under Nondisclosure Agreements. Fans will not get any further information one way or the other.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

@@lesaahrenstein6360 she is trying to avoid saying you do not ever call a Jewish man Jesus. Uncool definitely especially since the Nazis used to use that as a slur as they killed them according to several of my Jewish friends. I was unaware, having grown up myself with many Jewish neighbors and friends, that many Americans are unaware of that sensitivity since Jews only represent 3% of Americans.

[@martahaas5205]

You should check out Jolene! PTX sang it with Dolly Parton and honestly I barely even notice anyone else singing but Avi and Dolly. He and Kevin are likely the reason they won a Grammy for that song, in my opinion

[@Fairplayer43]

Simple theme of good against evil. "Taking a stand".

[@emdet2234]

Great reaction! You should check out his song “Full Moon”, it’s one of my favorites, the layering he does is incredible

[@dresden6310]

This is all Avi. And he says he wrote this about his fight with depression. Anyone fighting anything ought to have this as a theme song imo. I can see this in a Walking Dead or Vikings show down episode.

[@playstationnintendowin489]

This is the first I have heard of him by him self has I only really started listing to the group even a few days ago out side of drummer boy but this is hot!

[@rachellephipps1361]

I hope you react to more of Avi's solo stuff.

[@karenvelasquez8436]

Avi mentioned in a pod cast that he was starting to resent music. He left to find his love in music again. He was bonded by a contract to not release any solo pieces for 1 year. That is when this song came out.

[@charlottevan_8]

It wasn't that he resented music. He'd lost his connection to its magic, and said music had become a job and that nothing could be created that was true. It took time to reconnect, but once he did, the music flowed out of him, "and a lot", as he said.

[@sersastark]

this song has nothing to do with his time in PTX; rather, its his battle song. his battle cry. he left PTX bc his mom was very sick and he wanted to be near her so he found his replacement, Matt Sallee, and even trained him and introduced him and all he needed to prepare to join PTX as their new bass singer.

[@musicfanatic6558]

You probably don't know this, but Avi's older sister Esther was also with Pentatonix as their tour director until 2019. She then left to start her own business, but certainly had fun with the group and is present in many of their videos.

[@charlottevan_8]

Esther also left because she and her husband, PTX Production Manager, Darien Koop, wanted to start a family, and doing that wasn't conducive when they were on tour so much. They've since had a daughter, Rose, who turned 1 a few months ago.

[@altanconn]

I could totally hear this in a John Wick movie.

[@debbyplank2189]

mom was very ill due to cancer was main reason Avi lefr

[@tammielongino7485]

I havent heard this song. Avi has a great deep voice. He left PTX because his mom was sick.

[@mare564]

So love your reaction

[@heatherhuard]

Avi could have still done this music if he had been able to stay with PTX, they all have solo projects. I wish he could have stayed because I prefer PTX with Avi over Matt (nothing against Matt he is incredibly talented just my personal preference). But I am happy that everyone has moved on and is happy. Love Love Love Avi's solo music and am grateful he is doing well. If only we could get him on the radio!!!!!

[@pamscarr8696]

I left PTX when Avi did. Matt is good, Avi is fabulous.

[@charlottevan_8]

"Change" has actually been used on TV shows (such as "Resident Alien"), in the broadcast of a NASCAR race (Sort of odd, but then Avi's dream car is a 1970 forest green Barracuda, so maybe it's not so odd, lol), and as a recurring theme song in a podcast. Let me know, guys, if I missed anything.

[@tasia2174]

@@charlottevan_8 Wasn't one of his songs on an episode of Blacklist? Don't think it was Change....Chains maybe?

[@charlottevan_8]

@@tasia2174 Right. That's the one I couldn't remember, as I've never seen that show.

[@robinhatcher8021]

Sounds like cross between scary mountain man and chain gang.

[@bsmith5970]

Actually, Avi and Pentatonix did not part on great terms. He stayed close to Kevin and attended his wedding. The members of PTX refused to even have a photo with him. They immediately unfriended on social media after left - except for Kevin. His last 2 years with them were rocky for a number of reasons. Both sides tried to publically put a good face on things. He's one of 3 great basses singing along with Time Foust of HomeFree and Geoff Castellucci of VoicePlay. He has a fabulous tone and range and, being classically trained in singing and composition, always loved the country/bluegrass/gospel style despite being offered jobs with opera companies. Being with PTX and so often relegated to little more than backup must have been very hard for such a creative and versatile talent. I'm sure he enjoyed a lot of it, but in the end, he had his own path to walk.

[@samfunfun646]

more avi pls

[@heatherwalker6346]

Avi songs i think you'd like is: the summit, aberdeen, chains, and the otherside

[@playstationnintendowin489]

sounds like maybe this is about a time when he was having a hard time dealing with his demons/sins and like depression or something.

[@martycullison4095]

Ok. to me, this is a FIGHT SONG, A PROTEST SONG. Ever time I listen too it, I wish someone had been blasting it during the Marches for last year (Fight for Our Lives, BLM) I think the words applied to our government at the time "What good 's a man who has lost his soul, can't take a stand when his flame has grown cold" or This would be epic to open any SyFy/Fantasy movie with (Lord of the rings vibe!). Love your enthusiasm, just discovered your channel, going to SUB and go back and see your PTX/Superfruit videos!

[@stonemansteveiii3135]

Check out "Otherside" by Avi, it's much slower, but it's great!

[@nikkibanning176]

Please check out Full Moon at KZbin space studio. Also Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair, Fields and Pier, Aberdeen and Quarter Past Four. He does a few covers, but mostly his own music. I adore it all.

[@tammywelch3823]

You should check out Tim Foust, the bass from Home Free, cover of Man of Constant Sorrow. The man destroys speakers!!

[@gingerjohnson1095]

So does Avi. So does Geoff. Lots of bass singers destroy speakers. Tim does it deliberately. PTX had to take extras on tour with them so they could switch them out when Avi killed one. There is a video of Kevin chasing Avi backstage for blowing one. He blew one at the Aha, Singapore, Star Vista concert. Sub woofers just don't handle bass frequencies very well on the deepest end.

[@bradclifton5248]

This was his first. Not long.

[@BrilligandtheSlithyToves]

Yes. He definitely comes across as the"tribe leader" in this video, and it looks like they are preparing for a hunt or a battle of some sort. ... And my understanding of the whole PTX situation was that he simply missed spending more time with those he loves (family AND friends he grew up with) and being on the road all the time was just to much of a strain. No bad blood with the group involved in the decision at all. The announcement that he would be leaving was public, in a video with all members present.

[@brianbickel4741]

You should react to Avi's otherside video

[@lindabergstrom6650]

LOVE your reaction! If you want some lyrics, listen to It Knows Me...

[@ClaireBarn]

😻😻😻

[@ms_scribbles]

Yeah, this isn't acapella, but more folk. All the voices are his, though.

[@ms_scribbles]

And the story is his battle with depression. Pardon if this sounds harsh, bot not everything is going to be revolving around his time with Pentatonix.

[@lindaosmon5224]

Avi left in 2017

[@ambrossialynn4041]

I don't think this is about PTX, some say it is, but there was a bit of time between PTX and this. He has been bullied for being Jew, he had a bit of scare with his mom's health? He hit high, but never really "shined"... for all I know, this could be political or life in general... but I do know he left on good terms, I also know he wanted MORE than pop covers... he's too, umm, down to earth... hmm... in touch w/ himself... dunno 'bout spirituality or faith? to not want to share himself and his thoughts. and I describe the song as primal or animalistic lol if that helps

[@ravenmoon8147]

Jesus awaiting to be taken away to his destiny, the final sacrifice, betrayed by Judas….??? He is about to face the darkness but at the same time many others will carry the fire. My opinion of the lyrics.

[@gailseatonhumbert9199]

One can interpret a song's lyrics however you wish to but I don't think that that particular religious connotation was what he meant. Certainly not that the main character was going to be "sacrificed". Going into a confrontation as the leader yes but I don't see any laying down to die indicated at all.

[@stevensallsorts]

Tbf rest of his stuff is good, but they haven't reached this level again so far