Pentatonix- Sound of Silence First Ever Reaction

Wow! Incredible group!
#pentatonix #pentatonixreaction #acapella #reaction
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[@robear5440]

If you are amazed at Mitch's voice in this you hav'nt heard nothing yet!!!

[@Fed-up_Christian-Liberal]

May the Mitch-slapping commence!

[@Meydoosa]

And I’m here for it!! That’s my favorite part.

[@jlee954]

@@Meydoosa Me too! Love watching those slaps!

[@ernesthakey3396]

The Mitch-slap never fails!

[@curtismartin2866]

I cannot begin to describe how nice it is to see a reactor react to Matt as Matt and not as "not Avi". This was Matt's showcase as the new guy, but honestly it's taken until last week's "O Holy Night" for a lot of folks to give Matt the props he deserves.

[@redheadedneighbor]

💕

[@Fed-up_Christian-Liberal]

Amen. I constantly am annoyed with how much Matt has been undervalued. I loved Avi, too, but Matt brings just as much to the table if not more!

[@dazzie6272]

Thank you. Say it louder for the folks in the back.

[@justinperry13]

T H A N K. Y O U. This man has been the literal best thing PTX could have ever added to their already otherworldly roster. Understand that Avi was essential for them to get where they were. Their grasp on music theory, technique and manipulation is perfect because of him. How do you make something perfect even better though? You add Matt. This guy is something else man. Transformed them from an event into an experience. They have never been as good as they are currently, and that is saying something.

[@2436golden]

Exactly, I just made the comment on another channel after watching a reaction to O Holy Night and someone again brought up Avi. I asked the question of when would people let Avi move on as he desired. I loved Avi in this group and I love what he is doing now, but he is Pentatonix's past. Matt had to fill a big space left by Avi's departure. Matt not only filled the void but he made it his own. Give him his dues.

[@Fed-up_Christian-Liberal]

Welcome to the Pentaholics rabbit hole! Absolutely do Hallelujah next, as it was their true breakout moment as a KZbin act. They have some amazing upgrades (they do upgrades, not covers) of songs across genres. Do try to avoid the most recent releases if you want to see and appreciate their growth over time. They started as a trio, with the blonde Scott, amazing countertenor Mitch, and mezzo soprano Kirstie who met in high school. Avi Kaplan (not in this video, he had left and his replacement was the amazing bass you saw) joined them next, then Kevin; beat boxing/percussionist and tenor with perfect pitch, master cellist, and a genius mind. They went on a competition show, the Sing-Off, winning the season before Home Free won the final season. The record deal they won didn't happen, they were dropped. SO... they hit KZbin and did it themselves to immense success. 5 Grammy noms, won the first three. 5th is currently pending. Hollywood Wak of Fame star this past summer. I've been obsessed with them since the show! Their catalog is huge, so you'll have a range of recommendations. Enjoy the ride!!

[@richdiddens4059]

The only problem with opening with this song is that it can throw you off as to roles within the group. Scott, the nominal baritone, opens singing bass. He can sing tenor, baritone, and bass at will. Then third Matt, the nominal bass, opens singing tenor before the bass drop. Mitch is a natural counter tenor who has hit the whistle range (like Minnie Riperton). Against all logic Kirstie, a mezzo-soprano, might be the best at belting. Kevin, the beat boxer rarely sings a lead but has a clear tenor and a sweet falsetto. This comes in handy when Mitch's falsetto is too high for a part.

[@hernameispekka_Rebecca]

This group is what happens when you put 5 people, who are talented and charismatic enough that they could be solo pop divas or broadway stars on their own, in a group together! Take away the possible ego of solo performers, add a big dose of music theory geekery and kindness and hard work! They are usually said to be the "popular kids" in that theatre kid/country boys description. But not the Mean Girls kind of popular kid but just those that do a lot of extra activities and are popular because they are so nice and chill and still work hard. The kids everyone want to kind of dislike because they are so good but they are so gosh-darn likable that you end up liking them! On the hopefullness, I agree! I've seen people describe the 3 big versions as the original being the warning, Disturbed being the anger that noone is listening and Pentatonix is being the glimmer of hope in the middle of the storm. That kind of hope that people find when things are at it's darkest. Show piece? Well, they have a 12 year career with many hits. Many people will say Hallelujah since it's their most viewed one (and something they get kind of booed if they don't perform...). Other than that, there are soooo many in so many different styles! Going by most popular could work if you keep in mind that their older stuff has more views and it's a lot of christmas up there. A recent must watch is Kiss from a rose!

[@louellamoyer5578]

AND... O Holy Night! They need a grammy for that one to go with the three they have! But this year should get at least 2 nominee Grammy's and hopefully win both.

[@kathycarias1271]

I've said it before but I'll say it again. Home Free and VoicePlay are top tier talent. PTX is out of this world talent! Great reaction! Subbed for more Pentatonix!!

[@geniecoils5185]

Yes. PTX IS THE GOAT of a capella. Without them, there would be no Voice Play or Homefree. They have amazing talent. Anything you listen to will knock your socks off.

[@alfredh3071]

Hi Red! We are Pentaholix, we have an addiction that we are glad to spread. There are so many brilliant pieces of art that PTX has painted over the years. I suggest starting with the three Grammy Award winners, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, Daft Punk Medley, and the collaboration with Dolly Parton and Jolene. Three of my favorites are, The Prayer cover by Celine and Andre, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, by SEJ, and their most recent, O Holy Night. My favorites of their original songs are, Sing!, Happy Now, and Coffee in Bed. Their most iconic song is Hallelujah, it’s got around 800 million views and counting. It’s hard to pick but take heart, you’ll love them all.

[@redheadedneighbor]

Opffff. I need to get busy listening.

[@alan-freeman]

@@redheadedneighborWhen you do "Daft Punk" set yourself up for a double. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aX7Xloaipd12ptE&pp=ygUUZGFmdCBwdW5rIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D You will think that there is post production skipping, so to disprove that you need to catch the "Private Performance" kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqiXinapfb1-nas&pp=ygUUZGFmdCBwdW5rIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D where they stand at the front of a back-stage room and sing with no mic's and captured on a fan mobile device

[@linda6987]

Amen! ♥️

[@xheralt]

Scott (tall boy), Mitch (angel voice), and Kirstie (the girl, "I" before "R"!) went to the same high school together, were the core trio.. Pentatonix had just done their collab with Dolly Parton before this, and you can still hear a lot of "Dolly" in Kirstie's vocal technique here.

[@redheadedneighbor]

@@xheralt whoa! And I loved the colorful “ angel voice “💕💕💕

[@AudioVile]

I'm SO happy to see you reacting to the third of 4 amazing a cappella groups!! Pentatonix is (arguably) the most popular, based on followers and subscribers and total sales. Pentaholics (ardent fans) would probably say that their "showpiece" would be the studio version of "Hallelujah." Others might offer their cover of "Bohemian Rhapsody" as their signature cover. In 2017 a major change happened with PTX. Avi Kaplan, their original bass singer, left the group for personal reasons. He follows a solo career now. After Avi left, the group searched for, and finally found Matt. He's the one on the far left who you said was "your favorite so far." This group does amazing things in multiple genres. While they are often cited as being MOST famous for their Christmas stuff, I prefer their OTHER categories. They do original pieces (they aren't prolific, but they have several) and covers. But... Pentaholics don't consider them "covers." Rather, they dub them to be "UPGRADES!" In some covers they stay very true to the original artist (with SOME special sauce). In other covers, they flip an original on its head! Best example (off the top of my head) of the 'flip' style is how they do "My Favorite Things" from Sound of Music. You can tell it's the same song, but WOW!!! totally modernized and re-worked. One of their best covers that stays true to the original is "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen. An exceptional arrangement of a VERY difficult song to do... especially a cappella. Anywayzzz... the PTX rabbit hole is very deep and branches extensively into different styles. You will love them just as much as VoicePlay and Home Free. Loved your reaction to this! Your interpretation of "hopeful" is exactly how most of 'us' find it as well.

[@redheadedneighbor]

I’m happy to have dipped my toe into this river of music… 🤯

[@linda6987]

No dear it’s a rabbit hole - see ya down there! 💖

[@RonHeartsMe]

Love the props you’re giving Matt (white jacket) because he is severely underrated with fans. His voice is so buttery smooth and his bass is getting better and better with every song. People love to hate on him because he’s not an original member of the group but I think he’s the perfect fit. I would encourage you to react to their cover of Kiss From A Rose, which was just posted recently. It is PTX at their very very best and I would definitely consider it a showcase song.

[@duaneedwards4189]

Nice reaction! This is another great accapela group. You'll love "Amazing Grace"

[@alan-freeman]

A brief history of Pentatonix They won The Sing Off in 2011. They made a guest starring appearance on America′s Got Talent as non−competitors a couple of years after that. The founding members are:- Scott Hoying (tall blond guy, natural baritone but has an impressive five−to−six octave range, can go all the way up to high tenor and down to bass, sings the bass lines when the usual bass singer takes the lead); Kirstin "Kirstie" (Rhymes with "Thirsty") Maldonado (the only female member, natural mezzo soprano, but can go down to low alto and as high as upper soprano, also can sing in whistle notes that are off the scale); For a time in 2018 between the group’s tours, had the female lead on Broadway in the production of “Kinky Boots”. Mitch Grassi (a true contra−tenor, can hit high notes in his chest voice with ease and go WAY higher in his falsetto, also with ease); Avriel "Avi" Kaplan (dark beard and long hair), true basso profundo, trained as an opera singer, also can go up into the tenor range; and Kevin "KO" Olusola (beatboxer extraordinaire, also is a world−class cellist who plays cello on some of their songs, has a beautiful high tenor voice and gets occasional lead vocal solos as well, graduated pre−med from Yale and speaks several languages including Mandarin Chinese). Kirstie, Scott & Mitch grew up together in Arlington, Texas, and began performing together as children in local youth musical theater. They ended up in high school together and performed in the choir. While there, they formed an a cappella group called The Trio which had several performance videos go viral on KZbin, most notably a cover of Lady Gaga′s "Telephone". The three of them are best friends and consider themselves to be almost siblings. Scott & Kirstie (who were a class year ahead of Mitch) both graduated high school in 2010 and went their separate ways to different colleges, Scott at USC and Kirstie at Oklahoma. While at USC, Scott joined a USC−based a cappella group called the SoCal VoCals, where he met alumnus Ben Bram, who was now an arranger and vocal coach for the NBC TV show The Sing Off, an a cappella competition show. Ben convinced Scott to get The Trio to audition for the show. The three reunited (Mitch had to skip high school graduation ceremonies to go) in Los Angeles for the audition. They found out that the rules had changed, so they needed at least five members to audition. Ben put them together with Avi (a native of Visalia, California), who he knew from Avi′s performing days at Mount San Antonio College in California. They found Kevin (from Kentucky) through one of his KZbin videos that had gone viral featuring him playing the cello and beatboxing at the same time, a talent that Kevin coined as "Cello−Boxing". Kevin arrived in Los Angeles literally the day before the audition! Scott came up with the name "Pentatonix" after the pentatonic scale. They performed a re−arrangement of "The Telephone" for the audition and passed, despite having been together as a five−piece group for less that 24 hours! They won The Sing Off that season (all of the performances are available on KZbin), in which they received a substantial cash prize AND a record contract with Epic Records. They pooled their prize winnings together and all moved to Los Angeles, and all got apartments right next door to each other in the same building. But just a week later, Epic dropped them because the marketing people didn′t think an a cappella group could sell records. Instead of giving up, they were determined and began recording their own songs on KZbin, hiring Ben Bram as their producer and arranger. These usually consisted of the five of them sitting on a couch and performing cover songs live. Several of the videos went viral, and Sony (the parent company of Epic) decided to give them another chance by placing them on one of their smaller labels, Madison Gate. They released two secular EPs and one Christmas EP on Madison Gate, all of which were strong sellers. But when their cover of a medley of songs by Daft Punk not only went super−viral, but also won them their first Grammy, they were promoted all the way up to RCA Records, Sony′s top label. They began writing and producing their own songs in addition to their covers, began putting out a Christmas album just about annually (which has become their best−selling genre), and have had multi−platinum album sales, sold−out world tours, and have won two additional Grammys. Avi began getting burned out with all of the touring and heavy recording schedule, was suffering from anxiety and personal problems, and learned that his mother had been diagnosed with cancer in 2017. He announced he was departing from the group and taking some time away from the music industry. Matt Sallee (from Baltimore) joined them in September 2017. He did only become official when they renewed their RCA contract in February 2018, but he recorded with them in September as a featured artist and went on their Christmas tour as a featured artist, as well. When he attended the audition for the group, he had already mastered the Bass part for most if not all their past catalogue. He was successful and has proved that he fits in well with the group. If you think there have been other changes to the line up - look again. This is the ONLY change. Kirstie and Mitch are like chameleons and change looks frequently. It is an often debated subject among the Pentaholics as to just how soon we introduce the "Beginners Guide" as we don't want to overdo the introduction. This is a compilation of snips of a whole load of songs which PTX have released. It highlights each member with some of their solos and then a brief history in video. It is quite long - 14+ minutes and is a little dated now (Feb 2020) but is a good watch kzbin.info/www/bejne/onXbepmtm6igh6c&pp=ygUdYmVnaW5uZXJzIGd1aWRlIHRvIHBlbnRhdG9uaXg%3D. After a year away from music, Avi has now returned as a phenomenal solo artist in the Folk/Americana/Roots genre. Ben Bram has been in charge of their production, including arranging and directing from the beginning. He is often referred to as the sixth member. Scott and Kevin are major players in the arrangements, but every member contributes. A good watch is "The Recording of Evergreen" where a camera was invited into the studio for the second week of recording/ Also, all members are songwriters for both Pentatonix and their own solo work. Ed Boyer who mixes everything of theirs (even the HWB Livestream) is the one who pulled Ben Bram into the sing off in the first place. They have Grammy wins for Daft Punk Medley, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Jolene featuring Dolly Parton. They were nominated for a 4th Grammy for their album Evergreen, but didn't win. Another nomination for Holidays Around the World album in the 2024 list! Kirstie became a new mum which caused a pause in touring after their Evergreen Christmas tour 2021. Mid March 2023 Kirstie has announced that she is engaged to Ben Hausdorff, their videographer. No dates YET! They have a star on the Hollywood walk of fame installed in February 2023. They are the only a capella group with a star! They came 3rd in the 2023 Masked Singer performing as "California Rolls" being unmasked in May 23. Things you need to know because if you get these wrong Pentaholics will come after you with pitch forks and torches! Ha Ha!! 1- There is NO Auto-Tune; what you hear is actually what they sing. They really are that good. One exception is the 90's Dance Medley where Cher used autotune as an effect - so they had to. 2- What produces everything that you hear in the video, you see in the official video. If there is an instrument used in the music, you see it on screen. In the 2022 Christmas album, there are some instruments not featured throughout the album. 3- They never release something on video they can’t reproduce with the exact same quality live on-stage. 4. It is "Pentatonix" - There is no "The".

[@scottperil905]

over 300 videos is difficult to pick a show piece but if you want non Christmas you could try The Prayer or Kiss from a Rose. They do occasionally use an instrument

[@lauren_kawakami]

Thank you for your great reaction-looking forward to your journey down the PTX rabbit hole!🎉 At 733M views, their Hallelujah version is iconic. But they’ve reached a new level with recently-released videos “Kiss from a Rose” (VEVO Live) and “O Holy Night”… either is epic.😍

[@stephaniem2007]

Please do all 3!!

[@catpro70]

Their most viewed video is their cover of Hallelujah which includes their prior bass singer Avi Kaplan, (the only change in their lineup). I would also recommend you catch O Holy Night if you don’t like doing holiday songs outside of the holiday. That one is not to be missed!

[@texassendero4901]

Watching you Red you have opened the world of music in so many ways for this Texas boy. BTW this was my first time hearing Pentatonix as well. Guys we are so blessed to have her ❤ #redheadedneighbor #pentatonix #pentatonixreaction #acapella #reaction

[@JimKlus-jc4dw]

I've seen them perform live 3 weeks ago, took my longtime friend to see them and she was mesmerize, she's now a totally a big fan of them. The way she described it was that they sang better than original artist and oh, she loved Kevin (the beatboxer) playing the cello and beatboxing at the same time, it was two and half hours of fun. Subbed for you doing more reactions to PTX, they got a HUGE catalog of covers and original songs. Sound of Silence was a good start, check out "Bohemian Rhapsody" or "Hallelujah" or their latest video of "O Holy Night" and "Kiss From A Rose."

[@redheadedneighbor]

🤯

[@johnshea5967]

Everything they do my dear readheaded friend is a show piece, down to personal preferences, mine are their covers of Queens " Bohemian rhapsody", and 'Mary did you know ",and "Hallelujah, I'm pleased for you having found them❤xx

[@kurtfroberg3608]

Great reaction! If you’d like to hear their showcase piece, then listen to that song where they sing. 😂 Seriously, though, I’ve always considered their cover of “The Prayer” to be one of their masterworks. Plenty of others come to mind, however, since the extraordinary talent that these folks possess is otherworldly. Whichever song you choose to listen to next, rest assured that they never disappoint.

[@karylmonaco8174]

"If you'd like to hear their showcase piece, well, just listen to that song where they sing." I've never heard it expressed better!

[@kurtfroberg3608]

@@karylmonaco8174, tee-hee! Ain’t I a stinka? 🤣

[@maryanderson5443]

Welcome to the PTX rabbit hole! We are known as Pentaholics because we can never hear enough of them. Their showcase? Everything they do is perfection. O Holy Night is their newest and Christmas or not you need to listen. Just pick anything and you’ll be amazed. BTW Mitch, Scott, and Kirsti are from Arlington, TX and have been friends since high school.

[@ArturusRex]

I have heard them live. Video sounds just like being there. Nice "Mitch slap". Hallelujah, Mary did you know, and the grammy awarded, Daft Punk Medley, Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, and Jolene w/Dolly Parton. And not to forget, Bohemian Rapsody!!

[@chikinawk844]

You know the saying from that Kevin Costner baseball movie said by James Earl Jones; “Build it and they will come”. Well….. with Pentaholics same holds true. React to them and you will find your channel growing, groWING, GROWING. Trust me. We Pentaholics very much enjoy Voctive and Home Free plus others. Many of us watched PTX win the Sing Off in 2011, and the story about how they came together is astonishing. We feel they truly love their fans and do so much extra to reach us. I’m 73 and cannot attend their concerts (they were in my town this last fall) but they see to it ALL their fans can follow them. Thank you for reacting to PTX.

[@donnietrowell3124]

"Their vocals are like that" that's the best and only way to perfectly describe them lol

[@Burrowingowl315]

Great reaction! Try their recent release of Holy Night or Kiss from a Rose

[@rachel_lee_123]

Sorry for the multiple comments! I really hope you react to more Pentatonix because I can see how much you truly appreciate the beauty of their work! I’ve watched hundreds and hundreds of PTX reactions, and ones like yours are my absolute FAVORITE!

[@redheadedneighbor]

🤯🥹 Thank you. I genuinely appreciate it..

[@tomhansen45]

Their show piece is Halleluia. A wonderful original is Run to You, Fun piece is 90's Dance Medley. The effort, commitment and passion they exhibit is awesome! Do at least ten reactions to a variety of songs to see the breadth... (Then go see them live)

[@redheadedneighbor]

I most certainly plan on sampling them like a box of candy

[@thechomiji]

I'd say their showpiece is now the 2023 O Hoy Night.

[@cosmicdrift8311]

These are no one-hit wonders. Because they have such a diverse body of incredible works, both upgrade/covers and originals, it really is impossible to pick one, or even a few, pieces that totally showcases them. Some non-Christmas suggestions, in no particular order, to scratch the surface of their capabilities would be Shallow, Daft Punk Medley, Sing, Hallelujah, 90's Dance Medley, Be My Eyes, Blinding Lights, Rather Be, Prayers For This World, Can't Hold Us, Love Me When I Don't, and so many more. You had asked for non-Christmas songs but 3 from their latest album exceed even their previous insane performance levels and are "O Holy Night" and "Kiss From A Rose" along with "Please Santa, Please."

[@scanrdva911]

All their songs are amazing. Kiss from a Rose and Can You Feel the Love Tonight are amazing

[@gregpeacock5497]

Another great reaction Red! I actually found Pentatonix when they did their version of Radioactive with Lindsey Stirling (billed as the hiphop violinist) with their original bassist Avi Kaplan. The core group, the middle 3, Kirsten, Scott and Mitch were classmates at a high school in Arlington, Texas. My favorites of theirs are Carol of the Bells and the aforementioned Ractioactive.

[@antondewaal8509]

Must watch them sing Hallelujah !!!!!

[@markwong7922]

Nice reaction. Welcome to watching this amazingly talented group. Hope you continue to watch them. What I think you will find is that they have incredible versatility of what they can sing and each one has their own unique voice skills they bring but yet somehow when they sing together in harmony it sounds so amazing. They have sung edm music to country to pop, sang songs in other languages, and of course are kings of Christmas. daft punk, hallelujah, amazing grace, bohemian rhapsody are where most new people start. Kiss from a rose they just released a month ago. I also like a lot of their other great ones like Havana, say something, imagine, shallow, when the party’s over. There are so many to choose from and they cover so many genres that you will have favorites you will find I’m sure. Enjoy

[@andrewwallace4481]

Brilliant introduction into Pentatonix my Daughter's Fav💕nice to see you enjoy this Neighbor (Bohemian Rhapsody is amazing )

[@miguelsilva3867]

Pentatonix really paved the way for groups like Home Free and Voice Play and other up and coming acapella groups. I think without them, acapella wouldn't be as popular. Talent at its best. That was a great Mitch Slap!!!

[@chenawejamieson8628]

Great reaction!! Welcome to the PTX world. You will not be disappointed. I just saw them in August...WOW!! They are the real deal. Tyty for reacting to them. The gentleman with dark hair you asked about is Mitch, his voice is angelic. You'll learn. Center is Scott, next to him right side is Mitch, next to Mitch is the best Bboxer Kevin. To the left is Kirsten and then you have Matt. Again awesome reaction tyty❤❤❤

[@pamelamoore4912]

Loved your reaction and subbed for more Pentatonix reactions. Please react to their cover of Kiss from a Rose. It’s epic! Also, if you really want to see what Mitch (the guy with the mullet) can do, react to The Prayer. ❤️

[@reboss44]

Imagine, Hallelujah, Amazing Grace. Hallelujah was probably their breakout into the mainstream and their most watched music video. ❤ Imagine is life changing.

[@rachel_lee_123]

Subbed for more #PTX! Great song to start with ❤🎉! Love it! I absolutely LOVE your comments too!

[@redheadedneighbor]

Thank you

[@debbierichardson9009]

Sound of Silence, Simon and Garfunkel were the warning, Disturbed was anger that the warning had been ignored and Pentatonix bring hope for the future. Hallelujah is their most popular video by far, and to give contrast Kiss from a Rose is their latest

[@redheadedneighbor]

Exactly

[@oowbigj49]

always love to see a 1st reaction to Pentatonix, such talented people who really enjoy what they do

[@linda6987]

It’s kind of like watching a child Christmas morning opening gifts - you get to relive through them. They are truly a gift to us all! A blessing

[@davephillips7209]

This is a 3 time Grammy winning, (more nominations)multiplatinum album selling, NEVER have a bad song (240+) monster of an A Capella group. I Like Home Free and Voice Play. "Hallelujah" is not really a Christmas song at all and has more views by itself than all the others. Home Free has right at 500+ million views on their videos, Pentatonix has over 5 BILLION. 19 million subscribers, they are the Reigning Kings(and Queen) of their genre. Another one to give a listen "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" it's vocal magic. Enjoyed the reaction.

[@justinperry13]

FANTASTIC reaction. F’n fantastic. Seriously, what great intuition. I see it in your face that you are hearing the music, not just listening.

[@redheadedneighbor]

Wow, thank you

[@LeskeyC001]

Hey, Red! Great to meet you and you are the reason I spend so much of my time on PTX reactions. I discovered them in 2017 and the effect they had on me was such that I’m happy to spend much of my life listening to them or experiencing and sharing their magic with others doing the same. I found it really interesting that you described this arrangement as uplifting and hopeful because that is exactly how I see it as well and many reactors have remarked similarly. The original is a brilliant song but very melancholy and I could never have imagined an “uplifting and hopeful” take on this classic. That is just plain genius and that, in a word, is PTX. I was also very moved to hear you speak in such glowing terms about the first vocalist, Matt. Matt is the bass and he replaced the original and much loved Avi (the only change in the PTX lineup ever) and, as an addition to what was already a hugely successful project, I feel that he does not always get the credit he deserves for the truly outstanding talent he is. I also noted that you were impressed by all the vocalists you heard and that, in my view, is as it should be. I have subbed and I look forward to enjoying your journey as you get to know them better and I’m wondering if your stated favourite will remain so. I personally do not have a favourite amongst them. My love for each one of them is limitless and cannot be compared to anyone or anything else. I love them as individuals and as human beings but mostly as the whole they become when they combine their talents the way they do. The only one you didn’t comment on, by the way, is Kevin the beatboxer. You may find it surprising at this stage but in their interviews, the other members have described him as the most talented. Thank you for sharing your reaction with us. Much love from South Africa!

[@redheadedneighbor]

Thank you so much!

[@Badger77722]

One of the immediate differences between Pentatonix (PTX) and VoicePlay and Home Free is that, while VP and HF are (optimally) 5 man groups, PTX has always had Kirstin/Kirstie Maldonado as a member. That female voice can make a surprising difference in the overall "feel" of a song. And Kirstie is one of the more powerful singers - her belting is about as powerful as you could ask from anyone! As for their "signature" songs: well, Hallelujah is hands down their most popular video (and no, it's not a Christmas song, or even a Christian song, regardless of what you might have heard). It's at well over 700 Million views currently, and will probably break 3/4 Billion views in 2024. #2 is Daft Punk - and two more different songs or videos would be hard to imagine. My suggestion is to look through their catalog (over 200 songs), find one that you're kind of "meh" or even don't really like the original, and give them a chance. As Pentaholics say, PTX doesn't do covers - they do upgrades!

[@russellfisher2853]

No doubt at all pentatonix is the absolute best at what they do.

[@redheadedneighbor]

Love them!

[@russellfisher2853]

You're going to get a ton of comments. All. I can Say. You cannot go wrong with anything they've done.. I know you're gonna love them. They have over 200 to choose from. They have 3 grammy awards, a star on the walk of fame. Not to mention, they are real, they love their fans, and their fans love them. Hold on tight on your way to becoming a new Pentaholic. 😂

[@Nicole-bb5sl]

You nailed the feeling of hopeful!! You said exactly what went through my head! 🤌🏾

[@redheadedneighbor]

Oh! I’m so happy to hear that!

[@judydechant9205]

I would love to see you react to more Pentatonix. Their most popular is probably Hallelujah. You may also enjoy their renditions of The prayer and Mary, Did You Know? Their Daft Punk Medley ( they received a Grammy for this ) and 90’s Dance Medley are a must. Best wishes from Tennessee 😊🇺🇸

[@jo-annelebel9819]

PTX is the Acapella group that broke through into the main steam, paving the way for all other groups. PTX were mentors of Home Free, in Season 4 of The Sing Off. PTX was in season 3. Pop Spring 2016 ( this has 3 originals and 1 evolution Song), Daft Punk, The Wizard of Ahhhs (this is wit h Todrick Hall), La LA Latch is a good start

[@mldkenny]

Love this version, such an almighty talent within the group. Great choice and reaction.

[@talyn5304]

Great reaction! Some of their signature covers for me are: Daft Punk Medley, Bohemian Rhapsody will knock your socks off, and John Lennon's "Imagine"...or, if you're feeling really adventurous, give their original song "Coffee in Bed" a listen. But, whatever you choose, you really can't go wrong! =)

[@pjb3583]

New subscriber, here in the hope you continue to explore Pentatonix. I found them about three years ago and quickly became a huge fan, so it’s nice to ride along with someone just starting that voyage of discovery. The first recommendations always tend to be Hallelujah (hundreds of millions of views), their Daft Punk medley (their first Grammy) and their cover of Bohemian Rhapsody to give you an idea of their versatility. It’s a very deep dive after that as they have been producing excellent music since 2011. One of their most recent releases is a cover of Kiss From a Rose (look for the live VEVO session), and it’s killer. I have a heads-up on a couple of things since you are brand new to PTX. There has been only one change in the line-up since the beginning. Bass singer Matt Sallee (in the white jacket) joined the band in 2017 when original bass Avi Kaplan left. Mitch (the second singer here) and Kirstie (rhymes with ‘thirsty’) often change their looks, but it’s always them so don’t let that fool you. Also, their label is quick to claim copyright, so if you need to blur the videos or overlay them with text or textures to get them to post, don’t be shy about doing that. Most of us have seen these videos dozens of times, so as long as you can see them clearly, we’re good. I’m glad you decided to add Pentatonix to your mix, I enjoyed your reaction very much! Peace from Ohio …

[@redheadedneighbor]

Thank you!

[@nicholeginsberg9704]

When she was Mitch-slapped when Mitch wasn’t even Mitching! 🤣 she’s really in for it! 💙

[@paulkardash2991]

This was the very first one of them I saw too... I watched it literally 50 times back back.. I couldn't get enough

[@InkWellideas]

Dozens of showpieces out of hundreds of bangers; I like their cover of "Gold" with Avi as bass, and their "New Rules/Are You that Somebody" with Matt as bass for accessible views/audio for learning member strengths

[@CaptainMarvelsSon]

Welcome to the PTX rabbit hole. You _will_ get lost, but you will enjoy the journey!

[@mikeconway9849]

Great reaction, Red! Very accurate comments concerning the feel of this cover.

[@redheadedneighbor]

Thank you!

[@ATN2USN]

They won a grammy for Daft Punk that they made in the home of one of the group. If you like Queen, try Bohemian Rhapsody, although that one features Mitch more than the others. They also won a grammy with Dolly Parton performing Jolene for more of a county. flavor. Anything you pick will be a winner. They also perform all of this live in concert, even Daft Punk.

[@samnunley6307]

Your first song and you got Mitch slapped. Go listen to their version of the prayer and hallelujah

[@redheadedneighbor]

I literally laughed out loud!

[@samnunley6307]

LOL. I warned you. Really go listen to the prayer.

[@kennethbryson7751]

Hallelujah, great song though, one of my favorite versions of this song! Great reaction Red! Hallelujah is one of what I would call their signature songs! Low bass Kenneth

[@ericdrennen6461]

Hi, Red! I love seeing reactors discover all the a cappella music that I’ve been addicted to for years. My favorite PTX holiday chart is 12 Days of Christmas. Hallelujah…well, bring the tissues. My all time favorite a cappella performance is Ringmasters, The Hunchback of Notre Dame Medley. Please do not let the fact that it’s barbershop dissuade you from the experience. You’ll be glad for it.

[@ellenhulslander2897]

A couple of things you will find with PTX, they pay homage to the originals of covers they do.....and then they take them to a new demension. Also, they pay close attention to the lyrics and what they want to project with those lyrics. Egos get put aside when they approach performing a song. Usually, if a member writes a song, they will take the lead on that song, but have been known to hand it off to a member they think fits best. They understand that a strong background is every bit as important as a strong lead. Welcome to the adventure that is PTX. Two new ones you may like are, Kiss From a Rose, and Pure Imagination/Christmas Time is Here. So much outstanding material.

[@redheadedneighbor]

I like that!

[@ShinyElfriend]

Welcome to PTX! I totally see the Kiefer reference, lol! They have so much amazing music, covers, originals, collaborations, member solo projects, and yes, Christmas music. Most new reactors to PTX will start with Hallelujah, which is their most viewed video, then move on to Daft Punk (the medley that won them their first of three Grammys - so far), then usually Bohemian Rhapsody. Their most recent non-Christmas live performance cover of Kiss From a Rose is epic, their cover of The Prayer and their latest version of O Holy Night are both breathtaking masterpieces. I also recommend the Yale Livestream version of Can You Feel the Love Tonight because you can really clock what each of them are doing. Original Pentatonix music like Coffee in Bed, Happy Now, I Rise, Be My Eyes, Love Again, and Can’t Sleep Love are all good choices. A slightly less popular video cover of Gold by Kiiara is a favorite of mine. This line-up here was baritone, Scott using his lower register, followed by Mitch the tenor, then Matt their bass who you said was your favorite. Scott sings bass when Matt (or Avi in the early years) solo. Matt was followed by mezzo soprano Kirstin. Kevin is the beatboxer and another tenor. All are masters of their art and together they are just magic. Subbed for more!

[@redheadedneighbor]

Thank you for this. It’s helpful

[@user-ee5qw4ii9l]

You picked the perfect song as your first PTX song. You get a taste of everyone’s vocals in addition to the incredible beat boxing. Members from left to right are Matt, Kirstie, Scott, Mitch and Jevin. The original group had Avi instead of Matt but he left the group for personal reasons and Matt joined. This is my favorite song of theirs and always gives me chikks

[@marymullane2429]

I like Vocal Play & Home Free. I LOVE Pentatonix! Names in the order of singing solos: Scott, Mitch, Matt, Kirstin & then Scott again. Kevin, the multi talented guy on the far right, does beat boxing & also sings tenor & plays cello in some of their songs. They have won 3 Grammys & have been nominated for more. They don't do covers, they do upgrades. They also write and arrange songs.

[@mavisros4323]

Their cover of The Prayer is epic. Please exactly to it

[@lemonsterog]

Please, please, please go down the Pentatonix rabbit hole! You won't be disappointed. They are absolutely incredible. The best of the best.

[@smithpauld1501]

Good start. Now, on to their really incredible range over the years.

[@goldcountryruss7035]

Hallelujah & Oh Holy Night are my top choices.

[@cherylfrady4602]

From one ginger to another, your reaction was great. As you go down the PTX rabbit hole, we Pentaholic's will be there for you. New sub here from Tennessee. Enjoy

[@redheadedneighbor]

Hey! No far from me!

[@jeffg9203]

Love Mad World too

[@johnhurtme]

Hallelujah is the one everyone sees. It is quite spectacular. The video is fantastic

[@dawnmarieallenkent2495]

Thank you for saying that... it is you hope! I have said since hearing all three... Simon and Garfunkels was a Warning... Disturbed's was the anger the words weren't heeded... Pentatonixs is hope for the future...

[@redheadedneighbor]

Yes

[@jasonrahn5736]

Hallelujah and The Prayer.

[@djfromfla3105]

Thank you for your reaction to this PTX Cover. I have to admit I was listening to Home Free before I knew anything about PTX. Once I started listening it was down the rabbit hole I went. Voiceplays' Geoff Castellucci did a cover of this song as well. You talk about PTX bringing a different feel to this song....Geoff puts his little spin on this song at the same time staying true to the original and just nails it. I know you are gonna love this cover as well. Btw, just to give you a quick run down of the members of PTX...The first singer is Scott and he is the Baritone of the group, but can also be the bass when it calls for it. The second singer was Mitch ( He had the mullet hairstyle ) and he is the Tenor of the group. The third singer was Matt and he is the Bass of the group. ( He took over for the original Bass member Avi Kaplan several years back ) The fourth singer is the lovely Kirstin and she is the Mezzo-Soprano of the group and last, but certainly no least is their BeatBoxer and occasionally singer Kevin who was standing next to Mitch in the video you just reacted to. *NOTE* Should you continue your journey of reacting to PTX content you will eventually see the original Bass of the group Avi Kaplan. Not taking anything away from Matt by no means. But, Avi is incredible not only as their Bass, but as a singer as well. Thank you again for your reaction and I look forward to seeing more Pentatonix , Home Free and VoicePlay reactions in the days to come. Peace ✌😊

[@jimbenson6550]

U nailed the feeling of this song…definitely hopeful… I always tear up when I listen to listen to them. Must watches… Hallelujah, Imagine, Bohemian Rhapsody, 90s dance remix… or pretty much anything else…lol. You are in a for a wild ride…and we Pentaholics will follow u…

[@redheadedneighbor]

I’m excited!

[@TonyRom257]

Nice reaction.... "The Prayer" is a masterpiece.

[@rachel_lee_123]

MITCH! Countertenor! All of their voices can make you cry, but his voice will make you weep! 3:17

[@user-kn2dk4jl7i]

I knew you would like them I’ve been listening to them for years.

[@cmclimbs]

Hi Red! Great review! It was interesting to hear you pick up on the more...uplifting\positive\hopeful feeling that this version of the song has. Another wonderful cover of Sound of Silence was done by Disturbed and well worth a listen for its take on the song. Great job and keep it up!!!

[@kylesummers1565]

You got Mitch-slapped on your first listen. That is Mitch (the high tenor).

[@redheadedneighbor]

I’m dying laughing…

[@keithwillenson8314]

Great reaction. I'm sure you already have a list, but Bohemian Rhapsody is definitely a show piece.

[@gregscott2228]

Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah. God rest ye merry gentlemen Their medleys are not to be missed!!! 90's dance & Daft Punk esp.

[@pancentricism]

Their record company can be a bit touchy about copyright and do often make youtube block their videos unless you cover them with a bit of text, or blur them, etc. Generally everything from the Sing Off gets through unscathed, but other tracks might get blocked. So many of their songs are dynamite. Amazing Grace, Imagine, Bohemian Rhapsody, Hallelujah, Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy to name a few. Almost all are a capella, but occasionally they have an instrument as well. Kevin, the beatboxer also plays cello. Scot also plays piano. Matt also plays drums.

[@redheadedneighbor]

This is incredibly helpful. Every song song by HF is copyrighted pretty hard. Some have been block or just held for a bit. But the music is so good… I’m thinking these guys are as well!

[@rcinsley]

@@redheadedneighbor From the perspective of an avid fan of a cappella reactions, it appears that PTX videos are most difficult to get past the copyright police. The easiest is Voctave -- and I've never seen an unenthusiastic reaction to their "Disney Princess Medley" ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/l3Ompp53f9x-hJI ) Voctave is a small choir -- 11 voices, 5 of which are female. Their high soprano can hit notes that dogs can't hear! 🙂

[@stephaniem2007]

The “evolution of” videos tend to get through without copyright issues, and you can generally view live performances without issues as well. When we pentaholics find a reactor we love, we would rather see no video than have you give up reacting because of copyright issues!

[@redheadedneighbor]

@@stephaniem2007 I really am enjoying this music. Unless I am entirely blocked,( that has happened) I intend to keep reacting. This is very helpful information!

[@miguelmory7472]

You can start with Hallellujah!, .Bohemian Rhapsody and Daft Punk. Daft Punk gave them their first Grammy

[@AdamBazille]

Ya'll. The accent. 😊

[@dalemaddened780]

Great reaction! You haven't even scratched the surface. I can't wait to see you watch more!

[@redheadedneighbor]

More to come!

[@normandtremblay5498]

DAFT PUNK is their masterpiece.. all their covers are awesome

[@chikinawk844]

You gotta’ do a lot more PTX PLEASE!! This group is the mother ship of this genre!! Subbed for more PTX!!

[@FionaGlennanne]

For me Their showpieces are Hallelujiah, The Prayer, Amazing Grace. Then just fo down the rabbit hole. Great reaction.

[@philipkudrna5643]

Welcome to the club! Better late to the party than never! PTX is easily the best a-Capella group out there. Similar to that: Halleluja (but maybe do the live version from the video and not the music video), and the other end of the spectrum: their daft punk medley! But there is much to discover (apart from their Christmas music): Smazing Grace, Havanna or my favorite: their cover of „rather be“!

[@debrawalkermeyer9109]

Pentatonix is my favorite group ever. I am older and have seen a lot of concerts in my day and PTX is amazing live. ( sometimes even more amazing live because they love to perform). I will skip what most said because it is great information and I am sure you got it. Matt is officially the bass. Scott usually covers bass when Matt has a lead. They all have incredible ranges so they can cover so many harmonies and potential chords ( Mitch is reported at 6 octaves and 1 note) Kevin the Beatboxer does sing. He has some shining moments ( Mary Did You Know, Imagine, Amazing Grace for examples) and when they do 5 part harmonies he sings ( original Run to You) He is so amazing and needed to provide percussion, but will jump in at times. He is very musically talented and plays cello. Scott , Kirstie and Mitch have amazing voices and what random life luck they went to the same High School and were choir nerds. They do use instruments now and then , ( cello, violin, piano) but you see them in the video. Fav with instruments include 3 with Lindsey Stirling: Papaoutai, Over the River and Radioactive. They cover so many genres. All 3 of their Grammys you should see for sure. For many the official video is awesome ( Daft Punk and Bohemian Rhapsody) but they also perform these live and usually a reactor wants to see a live soon after reacting to them to ensure what they hear is real. What should you choose next? As far as most popular their official video of Hallelujah is awesome and closing in on 800 million views is a top pick. Then what? Their catalog is deep and they are all amazing. They also can perform so many genres. My personal favs include Imagine ( must do official music Video at least first) and Daft Punk, Mad World, Amazing Grace, The Prayer, Say Something, Problem, Perfect, Can’t Hold Us, New Rules x Are You That Somebody. They recently released Kiss From a Rose and the VEVO Live is marvelous. For originals: Sing, Love Again, Happy Now, Can’t Sleep Love, Coffee in Bed, Be My Eyes. Really, everything they do is great. Pick a song you love and see what they do with it or pick a song you don’t enjoy as much and PTX will change your mind. The “wall of sound” is pretty impressive in Imagine. You would love it. It is older. Amazing Grace and The Prayer are stellar. You can’t choose incorrectly! I subbed to see more Pentatonix.

[@roonilwazlib4538]

Late to your show but in my opinion this IS their "showcase" song. It's the first one that drew me to them though since I have learned that they have several others that I love. Have fun getting to know Pentatonix :)

[@jandell6591]

“The Prayer” is what you want to watch next.

[@REn-ACTIONS]

I am going to suggest you take a listen to 'Mary did you know?' by them before the Xmas season is over! It's incredible! ❤️❤️

[@redheadedneighbor]

Added!

[@garylogan3640]

For me the best PTX song is always the one you just finished listening to

[@kenslaughter00]

"What's their showpiece?" Yes.

[@Redtop-qh8zo]

DEFINATELY Bohemian Rhapsody‼️🔥❤️‍🔥🔥

[@redheadedneighbor]

I bet they knock that out of the park! I’m excited!

[@thatsroughbuddy-]

There's almost no greater joy than seeing other people experience Pentatonix for the first time. I love it so much 🤌🏼🥹

[@Jorbo23]

for sure their "show piece" is Hallelujah, though their entire catalog is amazing - Pentaholics unite!

[@llmllm]

You ain't seen nothing yet..thats Mitch..a true counter tenor..the best vocalist I've ever heard on my life..he will melt you..

[@michaelrunnels7660]

"That voice is nuts!" Never better said. That voice is one of a hand full of worldwide counter tenors with a 7 octave plus one note range, Mitch Grassi. His voice is pure throughout his entire range. You will be surprised and impressed by any and all of their hundreds of KZbin videos, but if you want to be blown away, react to "The Prayer", "Hallelujah", and "Daft Punk". Pentatonix has over 7 BILLION views on KZbin for a reason. FYI the bass from 2011 to 2017 was Avi, the guy who looks like Jesus in Hallelujah. He left amicably and was replaced by Matt, who is in this video.

[@benstewart88]

Homefree and Voiceplay fan here... you cannot go wrong with anything from either two, nor Pentatonix. I have listened to all three for years. I challenge you to find anything they cover that doesn't blow you away. Hallelujah is one of the earlier productions. But it can be considered Chrismas. Daft Punk or 90's medley are also ridiculously good. Be sure to interrupt frequently and perhaps reverse the video left to right to avoid having your reaction pulled down for review.