Reaction to and Analysis of Oogie Boogie's Song cover by VoicePlay

[@EbonRaven]

Oh, that “brain.exe has stopped working” look… it’s so relatable! The first time you hear Geoff whirl through his range (and not even his whole range!), it is just literally mind-blowing.

[@davidkreacts]

Haha! Absolutely. I've rarely heard someone slide more than an octave with such clarity, let along a bass who drops 3.5...!

[@EbonRaven]

@@davidkreacts When you get to some of their other medleys (and a couple of other cover songs), you'll hear that this is NOT unusual for Geoff! His flexibility and smoothness are just amazing. I grew up around opera singers and very few of THEM could manage this sort of flexibility and smoothness (never mind the range).

[@Starrynightdiner]

I like that you watch it straight through first and then analyze it. Do NOT apologize for going back or for a long video. That’s what we are here for. Please don’t let the trolls discourage you. They are irrelevant. They are not the followers you want. This was an EXCELLENT reaction/analysis. I look forward to the next one.

[@Starrynightdiner]

I forgot to mention Geoff sings the range drop with no production on tiktok. For people who don’t believe it is real.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much for the comments and encouragement. I'm glad you're enjoying my work. :-) And as for TikTok, this I must see!

[@bjspeck4337]

@@Starrynightdiner I saw that this evening. Was interesting to listen to.

[@par500dragon7]

Another of Layne's is My Mother Told Me. For that, the joke is - Layne: Geoff, how many beats can you hold an F1? Geoff: Yes.

[@davidkreacts]

I like the sound of this! It's on the list!

[@sanditabonita7117]

I love that you caught that bass riff in the middle. So many people miss it, and it's so amazing.

[@davidkreacts]

It really is! Very unusual, and so cool because of that.

[@cqc275]

I love your analysis-you always point out fascinating things I've missed-but my favorite part of this particular video might be your "He's not...." when you realized where Geoff was primed to go for the final descent. I've not seen anyone else who didn't assume he'd go back up for the final note.

[@par500dragon7]

I have to say one of my very favorites is Warriors. It's done with violins (played a little by J.None, but mostly by Layne - and brilliantly ). It's followup is Dream On.

[@davidkreacts]

Very interesting - I will have to check those out soon too.

[@asemlagnestal]

Oogie Boogie’s Song was the first song I heard from VoicePlay and I immediately fell in love with them. ❤ In the years after I’ve watched a lot of reactors giving their opinion and analysis of it and still you pointed out details none of us had captured. Keep on with your reactions, please. 🤗 If someone don’t think it’s worth watching for that amount of time, they can go watch the original or some other reactor, who just watches through the video, making different faces. 😮 My first video by Geoff was The Headless Horseman. 🥰

[@davidkreacts]

I can understand that - what a way to start! I'm glad that you enjoyed the video and found new things to love about this arrangement. Headless Horseman coming next week! ;-)

[@huldradraco]

Fun fact #1: Eli voiced Santa Clause here, showing off his voice actor skills. Fun fact #2: Geoff recorded his entire vocals for this song in one hour. One hour... Guess he was having a good vocal day, lol.

[@davidkreacts]

#1: That checks out - I'm ever-increasingly impressed by his range and comfort out of what I thought it was originally. #2: ONE WHAT?! If you'd said half a day that might have surprised me, but one HOUR? Wow!

[@alyssadaniels7841]

It was Eli doing the riffed “oooo” when Geoff is speaking to Santa. Eli has a huge range and is the king of riffing in VP.

[@davidkreacts]

I'm really impressed by Eli, and this just goes to strengthen that! Thank you.

[@patriciaschuman4205]

Love your reactions! There definitely is a 'VoicePlay' style, in the rare cases where they don't use a Layne or Geoff arrangement (if it's not one of them arranging, it's usually Rob Dietz who's credited), they always end up changing it slightly. I think Geoff even said something like (when discussing 'outside' arrangements): "I can't tell you exactly what it is that makes it sound like a VoicePlay song, but we know when it doesn't sound right and will tweak it (an arrangement that someone else has done for us) until it does". I am constantly amazed by all the little touches that make such a big difference that I will pick up in their arrangements (rhythm switches, offbeat rhythm, or subtle ways the background is dropping out, or rising, or lowering, to highlight another singer/part) even after listening to it dozens of times. That little riff you highlighted Geoff said was actually accomplished by a bit of post-production manipulation, putting together two separate tracks of his singing it in two layered octaves and Layne putting some distortion effect on top of it. Geoff's actual quote on that: "Most of the stuff that makes me sound superhuman-that's what it is, really good production." I kept debating whether it was J None or Eli doing that little background riff while Geoff is doing, "And now with your permission". Since someone else said that it was definitely Eli, they are probably right. That’s the ‘problem’ (add sarcastic tone to that, LOL) with VoicePlay, all their members are so versatile with insane ranges that you never know if the ‘baritone’ is singing ‘tenor’ or vice versa. Ignore the trolls. I'd much rather you go on for 42 minutes and actually tell me something about the arrangement than watch someone else making faces for 3 minutes and not giving any actual analysis of what is going on in the video.

[@suzyb1701]

Re: last paragraph, I so totally agree! Can't begin to say how many 'reactors' I skip over because that's all you get, a few expressions and 'hope you enjoyed that' at the end. I don't understand how some of them have as many subscribers as they do for doing quite frankly, nothing!

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you for all the information. I totally understand their take on arrangements. They know best what works for them, and I'm glad they have collaborators who understand that, and also have the confidence to make those changes. Post-production makes sense for that riff, though even half of it at a time is still singularly impressive! And yes, your point on them all being so versatile is bang on. I'm sure I'll start to learn the voices clearly enough, but early on they have such range and command of that range that it's hard to decide who's moved where!

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you both for the comments re the length. I watched just the reaction part of my Wicked video back after I'd recorded it, since I was worried about posting a long video, and decided I couldn't leave it just at the reaction - it didn't interest me, for a start, and I felt like it missed the soul of what I had seen on screen. I appreciate some people just want the reaction alone, but it's not my style.

[@patriciaschuman4205]

@@davidkreacts I probably should also have said that I really like that you do a first viewing with no or very minimal pauses, allowing you to experience the song/video as it is meant to be experienced, and then do the detailed analysis with pauses and going back over specific parts as many times as needed. Plus, I love that you add in comments to highlight things that you didn't notice, or forgot to mention during the analysis. I just discovered VP and Geoff about nine months ago, and I tend to watch just reactions to them, but I like your style of analysis so much that I will gladly watch you bring your expertise to just about any video!

[@veronicathunander4579]

@@davidkreacts He did do the riff in full length, but the sound is a bit funky, or what should I call it, because it’s two riffs in two different octaves on top of each other , if I remember correctly, with an added distortion on top. You’ll hear Geoff explain when you get to his “How to sing low - questions answered” videos.

[@katetracton131]

This was a great reaction and analysis! If you want a really stellar example of Layne’s arrangements, you should look at their Hall of the Mountain King video. It’s a wacky peek at the weird territory in Layne’s brain :) BTW, that was Eli doing the “ooh-ooh-ooh riff while Geoff was speaking to Santa.

[@davidkreacts]

Coming next week! ;-) And thanks - good to know. He has such a great range too.

[@allisoncameron-dicker2737]

Totally agree with Tennessey Whiskey... It's phenomenal.... Great reaction. Love your excitement and so pleased you picked up Geoff's low run in the background.. I love the way his hands are telling you that it's him..... Eli and Layne can both go low and have been known to cover bass... 😊 ❤️🇬🇧

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! I'm really glad you enjoyed the video. Will get to Tennessee Whiskey soon.

[@christinestromberg4057]

The big shocker in this one is how he drops so easily through his range. Very impressive and takes people aback. Always. Eli and Earl are both great voice actors, probably more than the others, though Layne has does some crazy voice work in their latest. Hide and Seek. Oh Geoff is knownfor his evil laugh. LOL. We hear it a lot, In his Headless Horseman, for instance. I don't know how they made Layne's nose glow. Someone else may know. Geoff and Layne are both great arrangers. And I love this breakdown, I don't recall anyone else go into the arrangement in so much depth. Great stuff. For riffing, see their Tennessee Whisky. :) Thanks for drawing attention too to I'm going to do the best I can. It often goes unnoticed. :) Oh to enjoy Geoff in the basement try his Over The Misty Mountains Cold. :)

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much, Christine. I'm really glad you enjoyed the vide. I also appreciate the specifics of your recommendations here. There's a Headless Horseman reaction coming next week, and I look forward to getting to the others.

[@liisaara7242]

"He's not." 🤣 Iconic VP, and so glad you're introduced to J.None and Earl. Completely different tone, but Tennessee Whiskey with this iteration of VP is just magical.

[@davidkreacts]

Hahaha! Funny thing is when I watched that back to check for errors, add the extra text etc., I had no recollection of having said that! :-P Yeah, Tennessee Whiskey is a very recommended track - I'll be checking that out in the new year.

[@susanfulbright4898]

If you want to see them riffing, try Tennessee Whiskey. They do it separately and in unison.

[@davidkreacts]

I'm definitely going to check that out soon!

[@ilonadever8249]

David, wonderful reaction! Please thank your friend AGAIN for sending Wicked to you. It has allowed us to accompany you on this journey. You mentioned the physical interplay that they have in this piece. This one has more physical movement in it than most, and I love it. They are rarely static in placement. A couple of examples would be I Can't Make You Love Me (new), Can't Help Falling in Love and Bridge Over Troubled Waters (older), For amazing riffs, I will second the recommendation for Tennessee Whiskey. You will fall off your chair. Really. And for more animated videos try Queen in 5 Minutes and Boy Bands in 5 Minutes. Trust me.

[@davidkreacts]

These all sound wonderful. Added to the list. I think I might need to start running polls of what songs to do next! There's so much choice!

[@jessiereddy5476]

Great reaction and Analysis. Keep up the awesome work and don’t let trolls mess with you

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! And I'll do my best not to. I have my style - if they don't like it, it's their choice to watch or not. :-)

[@reflexxuns767]

Oh, your reaction was perfect! I loved your expression at hearing Geoffs' last note!

[@davidkreacts]

Haha - thank you!

[@cynicsquest]

Your reactions are so delightful. The knowledge you bring to the genre as well as the pure joy of your expressions have made you my favorite reactor.

[@davidkreacts]

Aw, thank you so much!

[@sanditabonita7117]

The Hall of the Mountain King is a fantastic Layne arrangement for Halloween. It will blow your mind.

[@davidkreacts]

Oh, it did! Video coming next week. ;-)

[@gilliandrysdale5306]

now listen to High and Dry or Blackbird to hear more of Geoff’s amazing range ❤🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@davidkreacts]

Absolutely on my coming-very-soon list. Got a couple more lined up first, but one of these will be up shortly.

[@jackyfriedman1963]

They used to tour until Covid. This is one of the songs they did. There are several videos of their lives performances. some Favorites... Oogie Boogie Song. Elvira. Road Trip. Chicken Song. Among others. Huldra Draco has Alot of great videos about Voiceplay on her channel. Very very interesting and informative. That background 9999999 is Eli. He does Sandy Claws as well. Eli is a great voice actor. One of the videos Hulda has is Eli's voices. All these guys are extremely talented in every way. When Geoff says "oh brother you put me in a spin" I have to giggle cause Sandy is played by Geoff's brother in law (Kathy's brother). Love your reaction and analysis of this video.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed. Oh, I would LOVE to see them live. Thanks for the info. I'm going to check out Huldra's videos once I've done a few more reactions - trying to limit the peripheral things I watch while I'm still in full-on discovery mode. :-)

[@ronsbrat525]

@@davidkreacts Okay cool. Just giving you some info. Take your time. I fell down the Voiceplay and Geoff rabbit hole in April and have never looked back since. My daughter says I'm obsessed 😂

[@Bluebell_uk]

Their version of Elvira is great. I think they've only done it live never as a recorded video

[@davidkreacts]

@@Bluebell_uk Noted.

[@Aurora-cv5to]

While we're on the subject of character voices: Santa is from outside the group (Geoff's brother in law? I don't remember) BUT he only acts it. Santa's voice is done by Eli. And if Layne's Zero nose WAS added in post... well, Layne did the editing as well. There have been ongoing discussions about the differences between Geoff and Layne's VoicePlay arrangements. They both do the distinctive VP sound, yet many of us know immediately who did the arrangement. To my ears, one the differences is the complexity of rhythms. Both do great, varied rhythms, but Layne's often throw wild cards in. Low voice might be Eli, believe it or not, he can hit A1 and often backs Geoff when Geoff is singing lead. If you want a performance that features this group riffing, listen to Tennessee Whiskey. And sometimes they put down multiple layers, so it hard to guess on any individual note.

[@jessiereddy5476]

I think Geoff said it was his neighbor who played Sandy claws

[@janetdw]

@@jessiereddy5476 It is Geoff’s brother in law: Kathy’s brother Pasquale. His daughter opens the Just Sing compilation.

[@davidkreacts]

Oh - interesting - thank you for the clarification. Having just recorded a second reaction, I think I understand the wildcard recognition. I need to hear a few more before I can start being sure early on though. Tennessee Whiskey is on my shortlist for sure - looking forward to hearing what they do in that!

[@shirleykarr560]

You're both right. Santa is played by Kathy's brother Pasquale, who lives next door to Geoff and Kathy. His daughter is the opening soloist in Just Sing. I've heard from multiple fans that Eli is the voice of Santa but haven't heard it from VP. Pasquale is a singer and beatboxer. There's an old clip from a local TV show of him, Layne and Earl grilling and singing together.

[@huldradraco]

@@shirleykarr560 VoicePlay told us in a patreon webchat that Eli was the voice of santa 🙂

[@rmdewberry2482]

I notice that most who do musical and vocal analysis have moved to labeling the video "reaction and analysis of..." to help keep the reaction "I just wanna see people pull faces" trolls away. It's not full proof but may help a smidge. 🙃 Keep doin' what you're doin'. The analysis folks are here for it. Thanks for reminding me of a few cool backing moments in this arrangement that I'd forgotten about!

[@davidkreacts]

I'm responding to five or so hours of comments at once, and I was formulating that exact idea as I have been going through these. I will do that. Thank you - I'm really glad you enjoyed the video.

[@craftymissfit6007]

It was Eli singing in the background Eli has a big range like Geoff too he takes over Geoff sometimes all of them has a big range Layne's range is also as big as Geoff's

[@davidkreacts]

Thanks for clarifying - it was so wonderfully clear, so that doesn't surprise me.

[@CapriUni]

Some vocal percussionists (such as Adam Rupp of the a cappella group "Home Free") are famous for their ability to imitate an uncanny range of known instruments. In my experience, Layne Stein is famous for making sounds that listeners can't quite wrap their heads around. 😉

[@davidkreacts]

That totally checks out! His versatility is incredible.

[@CapriUni]

@@davidkreacts As I understand VoicePlay history, Layne actually started out as the group's baritone until their original percussionist left to pursue an acting career. So it makes sense that his percussion is on the more musical end of the spectrum.

[@davidkreacts]

@@CapriUni That totally tracks with what I understand of his work so far.

[@SunnyOutlook]

So happy to see your reaction to this video. I couldn’t wait to watch it when it popped up. One of the things I love about VoicePlay is that they really try to allow each member to really shine. There isn’t just a focus on one or two in the group. All are talented. If I’m not mistaken, they all have pretty incredible ranges. When you get a chance to react to Geoff’s cover of Ain’t No Sunshine, I think you’ll be just as blown away with his range, oh, and Blackbird as well. You can’t go wrong listening to any of his and VP’s catalog of music. I look forward to seeing your other reactions. I get a lot from watching them. You’re pointing out some things I haven’t noticed before. The little nuances here and there makes listening and watch the videos much more enjoyable. Thank you! 🎃

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much! I'm really glad you enjoy my work, and I appreciate the recommendations as well. :-)

[@michelgoossens7550]

Just to have more insight in the way VP works, it might be fun to watch Elizabeth Zharoff (The Charismatic Voice) pich Laine's brain about their Moana Medley.

[@davidkreacts]

I saw that she'd done some interviews - I'm excited to watch them, but I'm waiting until I've reacted to a few more videos, especially the ones referenced. Thanks for the tip.

[@Broomrider1492]

You are right Sandy Claws is not a part of the group. He's Geoff's brother-in-law. They utilize family members as extras from time to time. Yes! Your face said it all, that last note was an E1.

[@davidkreacts]

I love how the people around them are so willing to jump in and support them - they are a wonderful group, and that support system is also a part of that.

[@LisaGolemArt]

David, you are the reactor I've been waiting for. Thank you so much for your incredible depth of insight, and your obvious giddy joy when you listen. Glad to have found you!

[@davidkreacts]

Aw, thank you so much! I'm glad you enjoyed. :-)

[@carinarodebak9419]

I am sooo glad to take part of your reaction and analysis. 🤗 There is actually a live version on the net, but it's a fan recording with poor audio. I think it's JNone doing that little arpeggio in the background. I believe Elizabeth Zharoff points that out in her analysis IIRR.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I will have to check out that live version for sure!

[@noel1277]

As you listen to more Voiceplay, you can start to hear the difference between Layne and Geoff’s arrangements. Layne’s are more rhythmically complex while Geoff’s are more harmonically complex. They are each unique and amazing in their own ways at showing the Voiceplay sound

[@davidkreacts]

Ah, that makes sense. I love that they have two arrangers who between them can show off so many facets of the group.

[@shirleykarr560]

Thanks for pointing that out. Cesar has said he can tell Geoff's arrangements from Layne's but couldn't articulate the difference, and I felt the same. Now I know! And it makes sense that the beatboxer goes more complex on the rhythm as he knows what he can do better than anyone.

[@shirleykarr560]

Their styles also differ because of their sense of humor. Geoff is more dry ("The zombies were having ... fun.") Whereas Layne has fun with carrots, figurines, and funny sounds.

[@davidkreacts]

@@shirleykarr560 That is also a very valid point. I've been out all day, but that thought came to me a while ago and I was going to say just the same thing.

[@Debs_Badger]

Regarding that bass riff, if you watch Geoff's video "Singing REALLY LOW: Questions Answered" at about 4:50 he explains (and demonstrates) that part in this song.

[@davidkreacts]

Ah, noted - thank you. Will be watching that a bit further down the line so I can keep the mystique going a little longer! (Like it will go anywhere anyway, but you know what I mean. :-) )

[@glyndairby5513]

Awesome content! I love how excited you are about the little things!

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed.

[@CarlTSpeak]

Hi David! May I suggest one Geoff C described as his favourite solo work to date? He covered Radiohead's High and Dry. It's magnificent and shows the higher end of his range wonderfully.

[@davidkreacts]

I am absolutely going to look at that. Such a wonderful song to begin with, and I can't wait to see what Geoff does with it. Will be coming some time before too long.

[@karenzak6627]

Thanks for another great reaction! If like to point out something my husband noticed the first time through (but I'd forgotten), and that is the the results of Oogie Boogie's dice roll: "snake eyes", which is associated with bad luck!

[@suzyb1701]

One small request please David, with the video playing, if you talk over it to comment on something, it's sometimes very difficult to hear you, maybe pause, comment, resume play? This was the first time I'd really heard Geoff singing in a higher range and was quite impressed that he had that ability, though I've since heard him sing higher which is amazing. Also, as Christine said, the ease with which he ascends/descends (in this case B4-E1) through the tenor-bass ranges without losing tone or clarity is wonderful. Thanks for another great reaction, David. I love how you pick up on things that most other reactors seem to either miss or because they are more technical, gloss over, makes my Geoff and VoicePlay obsessed heart very happy! I'm not going to make any suggestions of what to react to next, basically VoicePlayas and Castellunatics alike want well..... everything LOL! 🙂👍

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you for the feedback. I'm tinkering with the volume, and I think haven't quite got the balance right. I very much don't want to pause the first watch through, as I think there is often build-up in songs that can be lost that way. I'm hoping to balance the audio so that it isn't a problem, but everything can still be heard. I get wanting everything! I have one more video for each already lined up, and I'm trying to prioritise what's after that! :-P

[@dehro]

the use of negative space and word painting is such a strong point in their arrangements... check out what they do with "if I were a rich man" with Ashley Diane...who knocks it out of the park

[@davidkreacts]

I will be getting to that, for sure! It's a great song, and I'm keen to see what they do with it.

[@Traci2000]

This was the video that got me hooked on VoicePlay. I love the Nightmare Before Christmas and when KZbin recommend this, I was hesitant, but I decided to take the chance and I haven't looked back since. It's amazing just how much they put into their arrangements. I have some of your reactions to catch up on from this weekend, so I'll be off to In the Hall of the Mountain King now, lol.

[@davidkreacts]

Understandable - I can see it being a wonderful hook in. Yes, it is quite stunning! Hope you enjoy the videos. :-D

[@melissarumack9095]

Very glad you're continuing down this wonderfully deep rabbit hole. Thank you for the new insights that even some other reactors have missed. keep up the good work. do what you like and it will hopefully stay fun.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you very much! I hope so too - I'm definitely still having a blast doing it.

[@bethwalsh9020]

Geoff is simply amazing. His low singing tutorials are interesting and fun. He did them a couple years ago and he's just gotten better since. He also has one where he talks about how he arranges for VP. There's a TikTok where he does the ending of Oogie Boogie live, also one with the Hoist the Colors Yo-hos.

[@davidkreacts]

I will be checking all of these things out! Thank you. Just going to wait until I've recorded a little more so I don't spoil anything first. Okay, maybe not the TikToks - I've done those songs... ;-)

[@BethW-mm9kb]

@@davidkreacts for the arranging one, the only song featured is Bridge Over Troubled Water, so once you've watched that you won't spoil anything. And he doesn't sing much in that one. His sense of humor is definitely front and center too.

[@davidkreacts]

@@BethW-mm9kb Good to know - thank you!

[@ronsbrat525]

Awesome reaction David. I always have to giggle on the part where he sings to Santa "oh brother you put me in a spin". Geoff's brother in law plays Santa. Eli does Santa's voice. There's a live video them singing this when they were on tour. A couple really funny live videos they did are "Road Trip" and "Chicken Song". Be prepared to laugh your buns off if you watch them.

[@davidkreacts]

Thanks for the suggestions! I am holding off on the live videos in case I choose to react to them, though I think my style is better suited to music videos - definitely looking forward to them though!

[@shirleykarr560]

Thanks for pointing out the negative space -- it's a great way to highlight each voice. In the movie this song is a duet between Oogie and Santa. I thought this was a creative way to include the whole group by bringing in Lock, Shock, and Barrel (see them again in Kidnap the Sandy Claws) and Layne as Jack Skellington's dog, Zero. When they performed it live, Santa is projected on the screen. The basso profundo riff is Geoff double tracked, slightly different notes on the second track. He explains it in a tutorial. When they do the theatrical videos, they're performing to the finished vocal tracks, still singing but at about 50% to 80%. Geoff is a little less than that in this one because he had mild laryngitis after filming Trapped the week before. In their ACA Top 10 medleys, the vocals are recorded live with the video. This arrangement used Geoff's entire range -- at the time. He's since gone lower than that E1 (B0 in Halo, C1 at the end of Way Down, several C#1s in Hall of the Mountain King). In a VP video if Geoff is in full makeup (even if the others aren't, as in Little Mermaid Medley) you can bet it's a Layne arrangement. Both Eli and J. can do the bass line when Geoff is singing lead. There's a line in Mermaid I was convinced was Geoff but it's actually J. And Geoff as Ursula with another epic glissando is NOT to be missed. I don't like the story by Disney or HCA (girl changes everything about herself to get a guy) but Geoff has a narration on his channel reading the original Little Mermaid by Hans Christian Anderson. His narration voice is aural Prozac. If you want to see/hear Geoff beatbox as well as do the bass line, watch Death of A Bachelor, where he and Earl do all the parts. All of VP beatbox during Greatest Showman Medley, including friend and frequent collaborator Rachael Potter. I hope you're doing Headless Horseman for Halloween! It was one of Geoff's first solo videos, filmed in his parents' dining room.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you for reminding me of the names! Had a total blank when I recorded this, and haven't had a chance to check since. I'm working my way up to Halo - I cannot imagine what a sung B0 sounds like! Mermaid will be coming soon - love that music so much! (Though I do agree about the story - it's a product of its time, for sure.) I may have to listen to the reading however! Check out my channel on Monday - you won't be disappointed. ;-)

[@karenponchak5304]

Their ACA Top Ten Disney Sidekicks and Top Ten 80s Cartoon Themes have J.None featured singing bass when Geoff has lead. And there is also a spot at the end of the Little Mermaid Medley where J "steals" Geoff's line. For a real interesting hit bass bit - watch their cover of "Everywhere You Go" (theme from Full House) where Layne sings bass.

[@davidkreacts]

Ooh - these all sound very cool! I have The Little Mermaid very high up my list, just because I love that music.

[@karenponchak5304]

@@davidkreacts you might want (no reaction) to find the audio to their cover of Rockapella's "Hound Dog" if you really want to hear Geoff "riff". It's from their first album "Time Machine". It's kind of funny. He "can't" riff if it's like Eli or the others do - where it's legato. However, when he does a syllabic articulation of each note, he actually becomes better than most anyone.

[@davidkreacts]

@@karenponchak5304 Ooh - you have me intrigued. Thank you for the recommendation - that sounds well worth watching.

[@EbonRaven]

Santa was played by Geoff’s brother-in-law and voiced by Eli. The glowing mouths are from an LED mouthpiece. You can get them online, very uncomfortable to try to wear and work around, if I’m honest. But they look amazing in the dark.

[@davidkreacts]

Thanks for the info! Yes, I can't imagine something being comfortable that can achieve that look, but boy was that worth it!

[@EbonRaven]

@@davidkreacts LOL The oldest versions (which were the ones I used because they were new at that time and therefore even more spectacular), those bloody things were so big and the flange that held the LEDs was so big, that you needed to keep a handkerchief or towel because you WERE going to drool.) 🤣🤣

[@antknee6]

Only a handful of reactors have caught the bass riff just after "...to add a little spice". So glad you did. Was waiting for your reaction to the finale B4 to E1 and was not disappointed.

[@davidkreacts]

I'm very glad! Thank you!

[@ConnorSinclairCavin]

Haha, i told you that that slide would melt your brain for a moment

[@davidkreacts]

And you were 100% correct! :-D

[@BlueZebra1955]

I like to call this video Geoff-o-licious. Some have complained that he takes too much of the spotlight, but this song is a perfect highlight for that incredible, buttery smooth, 5 octave voice. In other videos, other voices are showcased.

[@janetdw]

I’ve heard the same criticism in Friends on the Other Side on J taking so many of the lines. But these are storytelling pieces and they’re basically re-creations of the movie so I don’t know any other way they could’ve done it. But it isn’t is typical for the arrangements for one person to take so much of the lead possibly with a few of their guest artists.

[@davidkreacts]

I agree on all counts! This arrangement was clearly made for him to shine. It's not him taking the spotlight, it's the others encouraging him into it. I can already tell that they enjoy doing that with all of their voices and I am here for it!

[@davidkreacts]

This is also a very fair point - if someone is playing a specific character, it makes sense for them to have that character's weight in the song. Most a capella groups don't hit the theatricality the way VP do, so it does set them apart somewhat.

[@terib470]

I love Voiceplay and their theatrical version of songs are some of their best. They don't always get as theatrical in their songs and my request, outside of watching you going over the music and said enjoyment, my request would be their cover of I Can't Make You Love Me, by Bonnie Raitt. Thank you for the return of the joy I felt when I re-listen to your reactions.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you're enjoying my videos. I love that song so much, and will absolutely check it out - not quite sure when, but I'll get there soon. :-)

[@LoppyJen]

6:58: DavidK.exe has malfunctioned. 404, page not found. I love it! Also, never apologize for a longer video or going back to appreciate a section again. That's what makes these videos unique to you and genuine. Goodness knows I've been known to replay sections of songs over and over and over again because they give me chills or something. Can't wait for more!

[@davidkreacts]

Haha! Accurate. ;-) I'm trying not to do that - it's something of an automatic thing that I am attempting to control. :-P

[@LoppyJen]

@@davidkreacts It's more than okay if you do! Sometimes we hear things and we need a moment for our brain to catch up and fully comprehend everything.

[@janetdw]

I don’t know I missed your earlier reactions to my favorite group and bass, but I will go back and check the other reactions/ analysis videos you posted. I have already subscribed. I think I have listened to this at least 100 times between reactions and just for my own pleasure. But you still pointed out new things and explained things that other analysis channels covered but this time I understood it all! Don’t ever apologize for content length. You are not just talking to hear yourself. You are not only sharing your knowledge and observations, but your appreciation as well. If you liked the richness of that final E1, I think you will really like the “anytime” in Ain’t No Sunshine of Geoff’s. I believe that someone with more knowledge than I have stated it was an A1, but the texture of it is amazing. Forget ASMR. If I could loop that one word over and over….sigh.

[@davidkreacts]

Aw, thank you! I'm still only two weeks in, so growing (though pretty fast, thanks to the VP community!). I'm really glad I could still find things for you to take from my video. :-) And thank you for the encouragement. In the moment, it feels like I'm going back a lot, but watching it back afterwards, it's not as much as I think at the time. Checking out Ain't No Sunshine soon, I hope. (So much to go through! Best problem ever!)

[@ljk5464]

I really enjoy your reactions and then you go back to break it down the second time through.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you very much - I'm glad to see folks seem to be responding well to that. :-)

[@bjspeck4337]

Santa is Geoff's brother-in-law! Eli is doing the Santa voicing. I would make a bet that most of us here are happy you are delving into our favorite group. Speaking for myself, I am thoroughly enjoying your reaction AND analysis. Don't sell your talents short!

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much! I'm very glad you're enjoying my work.

[@aaroncoffman88]

Great choice. Glad you got to this one quickly. Love your reactions. Thanks for the fun entertainment.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@alexwalker8440]

David, I really enjoy your reactions! I have to admit, I'm one of those people who skips the reactor's intro blah, blah, clicks on like and then gets out at the very end of the song; forget about writing my own comment, almost never. But your reactions are different, very engaging. You bring out the best in us, I guess 😊. Keep them coming, please! This is my favorite VP formation, with Earl and J.None. I love Cesar, but I miss these 2. I understand that you don't wanna be limited to VP. They've been together since 1997, with Geoff, Layne and Earl being part of the original members. Not any time soon, but you will eventually run out of material on them. They are so creative in everything they do, that can't be fairly compared to any other acapella group. They are unique 🤯🔥. There are many videos from live performances, taken by people watching the shows, but not in a studio version, so not in their own channel. Examples are "Road Trip", "Elvira" and "The Chicken Song", all great! Looking forward to your next VP reaction, whichever one that is, all worth it! Thanks for another great reaction!

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much! That is very kind, and I'm so glad you enjoy my work. :-) Got another VP recorded and dropping early next week. I'm very excited by the idea of live videos - will be checking those out. I'd love to see them live once they are touring again.

[@Bluebell_uk]

Road trip is on VoicePlay channel ifs currently 4th on their playlist 'Most Popular' which is most of their songs sorted in order by view count. Far and away their most popular one is Moana Medley with over 42m views

[@davidkreacts]

@@Bluebell_uk I can see Moana being super-popular. I'll be getting to that in due course - and Road Trip. So much awesomeness!

[@Z-LightfulMemories]

If you want to see another one where Layne pushed Geoff, definitely check out If I were a Rich Man/Girl by them (ft. Ashley Diane).

[@davidkreacts]

I will be doing this soon (-ish, given the size of my recommendation list!), for sure. :-)

[@Tark-qs4mu]

All of the stuff they've done for Nightmare Before Christmas is really cool. If you're looking for suggestions other than Voice Play, perhaps something other than acapella, might I suggest My Shot from Hamilton? Always one of my favorites. This video is, as have been all the others you've done up until this point, a lot of fun to watch. I can't wait to see what you do next. Thank you, David, for the work and effort that goes into these reactions. See you in the next one!

[@veronicathunander4579]

There is a VoicePlay version of “My Shot” from Hamilton as well, it is great!!! So I’d love if you’d check that too - if not publicly so on your own, it’s well worth listening to!

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you so much! I'm really glad you're enjoying. Did you mean the on-stage "My Shot"? I saw the recorded performance several times (never managed to win the ticket lottery when I was in NYC, sadly!), so I might analyse that, but couldn't honestly react to it. I am considering analysis videos once I have more reactions down though.

[@davidkreacts]

Hmm. Maybe a reaction to VP, and then a comparison? I don't know - that might be too complicated or overly long, but it could be interesting to try...

[@veronicathunander4579]

@@davidkreacts I personally would enjoy that a lot!

[@Tark-qs4mu]

@@veronicathunander4579 Oh, I had no idea!! I'm searching that out this second!

[@katthor7311]

A VoicePlay classic. 😁 I thoroughly enjoyed your reaction and analysis, as per usual. A VP song that I would suggest, though I don't think it's very popular in the reaction/analysis space, is Blue Sky. There's nothing crazy about it, but it's just so upbeat and fun, it puts me in a good mood any time I hear it. But let's be honest, if I start recommending VP content to react to, my legit answer to you would be.....all of it. 🤣 Just start with A Crimpella and work your way forward through time.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! And I will add both of those to my list. I don't think either has been requested yet, and I hadn't seen them when looking around either, so thank you for the recommendations.

[@debbiebuck9231]

Thank you for that great reaction. I think you'd really enjoy their version of 'We Don't Talk About Bruno'' from Encanto! And their Queen medley.

[@davidkreacts]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. :-) I have those on my list, for sure - looking forward to them.

[@veronicathunander4579]

I think that background “ooooh” sounds very much like Eli, I’ve always gathered it’s him. I think in the studio recordings, they’re all doubled from time to time, i.e. the one who’s taking the lead also still has background vocals. Then they have arrangements without that as well, that they use in their live shows. It’s good that all the members are so versatile, so even if e.g. Geoff is taking the lead, another member can take a bass line, and if Eli is on lead, another one can have the tenor bvs. And Geoff knows how to beatbox too (but not as elaborately as Layne). Yes, now you’ve seen and heard Earl, highest tenor 1997-2020 (his position has not yet been filled), and J None, baritone 2018-2021. Only Tony left and then you’ve seen all the members since they started their KZbin channel! One suggestion for seeing Tony as well is their “Phantom of the Opera”, where he’s the phantom. It’s also featuring Rachel Potter, whom you saw in “Wicked”. “Featuring J None” may also mean that the video is from before he joined the group, he was featured quite a lot in 2017, before he became a member. And regarding a “riffing basso profundo”, someone commented once that when they recorded their “Tennessee Whiskey”, Geoff said that he can’t riff, he would just sing low instead and Eli answered “No, not with that attitude you can’t”, and so Geoff couldn’t resist the challenge and did riff anyway :-). He’s been doing it from time to time since 😊. Sorry, there was an essay for you... 🤓

[@davidkreacts]

General consensus seems to be that it's Eli, so sounds like you're right. The doubling makes sense for a full recording - it's very common throughout vocal music in particular. I haven't heard Geoff beatbox yet - I look forward to that. Phantom is absolutely on my shortlist - musical theatre with VP always will be! ;-) Tennessee Whiskey has also been added - lots of recommendations based on my comments in this video. Do not apologise - I love reading all the info, comments and recommendations people have.

[@patriciawilson591]

Layne is incredibly good at arranging. He and Geoff have helped with some of Home Free's songs. Geoff on Elvira, Layne on the Butts remix.

[@Wildecat10]

They’ve also arranged for Disney.

[@davidkreacts]

All of these things are wonderful! Will be checking out Home Free soon. The Disney connection doesn't surprise me - with their voice chops and talent for storytelling with both action and vocals, that makes complete sense.

[@janetdw]

@@davidkreacts Both groups appeared on the Sing Off in the same season. They had planned on using the song Survivor as a sing off between the two groups but VoicePlay was eliminated early on. But they enjoyed the idea so much that they went ahead and filmed it afterwards. It is Zombies vs Hillbillies. Yes you did read that right. It features an older crew - the baritone is Tony Wakim who took the baritone spot when Layne’s switched to beatboxing. When he left, J came in, then Cesar took that spot when J was recruited by the Navy. It also features a female that was added just for the Sing Off at the very explicit “request” of the network. Personally I feel it did not help them at all in the competition. In fact I believe it hindered them as they weren’t able to be VoicePlay. They ended up being Honey and the five guys as another commentor called it. She is a strong vocal talent, but she just did not blend. But it’s a great video and shows both theatrics and humor. They’ve become good friends and often help each other out. A couple of the guys from Home Free have appeared in some VoicePlay ACA top tens and Geoff and Layne have done arrangements for Home Free.

[@davidkreacts]

@@janetdw Thank you so much for the info. I've never seen Sing Off, but I'm so glad that two awesome groups and a great collaborative atmosphere came from that!

[@margiestevens2384]

These are my favorite but I also love the Bass gang and would like to see you react to their music.😂

[@aubreys6613]

In their version of Enemy by Imagine Dragon, Geoff does a similar range change but from low to high

[@davidkreacts]

Ooh - that would be equally cool. I will get to that in due course.

[@CynicalTesuji]

You pretty well nailed the description of subharmonics. The one element missing was the use of vocal fry to engage the false folds in order to produce that octave drop. If you really want to get into subharmonics, you ought to check out davidwiththelonghair (David Larsen), who is the guy from whose videos Geoff learned about subharmonics. David can produce not just a first subharmonic, but second and third as well (although the note intervals change; it's not straight octaves on down). It's fascinating stuff, and he's got a great recap video with a little about the history of subharmonics, as well as modern usage (and I believe he cited this song as being the first 'mainstream' usage of the technique). Oddly enough, it was my curiosity about subharmonics that led me to something oddly related- Mongolian throat singing. From how I've heard it described the khoomei technique is almost the exact same thing as subs (although not nearly as refined sounding as Geoff produces). And that led me to the Hu band, a Mongolian folk metal group. They utilize traditional instruments (notably the morin khuur, or horsehead fiddle, a two-stringed instrument similar to a cello but also very, very different) alongside modern guitar and bass, but the music. This isn't a garage band- these are conservatory trained musicians, who were inspired by Metallica and traditional Mongolian folk music, and managed to blend the two with consummate skill. Their vocals also incorporate throat singing (three types; khoomei, kargyraa and sygyt, that last being a high, oscillating overtone instead of the other deeper varieties) with a metal sensibility, while their lyrics (always watch their videos with CC turned on!) reflect modern Mongolia's relationship with their history, and praise the great Khan who once united their people. It's fascinating stuff, and if you aren't listening to them already with your interest in metal, then you are missing out on something special.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you for all the information! I'll definitely check out David's channel some time - he sounds amazingly talented as well. Now that you've said that, the relationship between subharmonics and Mongolian Throat Singing makes a lot of sense. I'm familiar with that through a couple of recordings of demos of the style, as well as a couple of The HU videos and also the Sardaukar language in Villeneuve's Dune is very inspired by it also. I haven't heard many HU videos, however, so thanks for the reminder. Might react to one of them too - it's such cool material.

[@MelancholieT]

@@davidkreacts Highly recommend checking out the collaboration The HU did with Lzzy Hale of Halestorm, The Song of Women.

[@davidkreacts]

@@MelancholieT Ooh! SOLD! Thank you for bringing that to my attention.

[@debrabouchez4270]

Voiceplay has a cover song from the frog princess as well. Friends On The Other Side song

[@davidkreacts]

I have it on my list - will be getting to that in due course, perhaps in another Disney month.

[@gilliandrysdale5306]

Btw Santa is Geoff’s brother in law but the voice is Eli who is amazing at doing voices! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿❤️

[@davidkreacts]

I'm learning that very quickly watching these videos. His command over his voice in any style of production is fabulous.

[@lkayh]

I’m not sure who’s doing those staccato arpeggios-I’d been thinking maybe Eli because it seems like when they need agility and accuracy he’s often the guy, but could be Layne as well (honestly, could be any of the guys). I think the Easter eggs are usually in the description.

[@davidkreacts]

This is the thing - they're so versatile it's hard to pin down who is doing something if they're not on screen! XD

[@MusclesandMusic]

There is a video or two out there of them performing this live at a casino and I believe at Disney World (don't quote me on the second one). However, the audience doesn't respond back to him yet I definitely could see that happening. If you want to see the audience do a call and response with the group watch the version of Elvira that they did live (Geoff's range in that will leave you speechless). If you want a laugh, watch their Chicken Song and Road Trip.

[@BlueZebra1955]

I'd like to see your reaction to The Sound of Silence cover by Disturbed. They are a heavy metal band (I think) and their cover takes a lot of people by surprise.

[@davidkreacts]

I am familiar with Disturbed, and the idea of them doing that cover has me very intrigued! Consider it added to my list.

[@Rachel_Roaming_and_Rambling]

I really enjoy your reactions. Geoff has a video on his channel about how he does arrangements for VP. It is a fascinating watch and has a very “interesting” insult from one of the Geoffs.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you. I hadn't seen that until people recommended it on this video. I'll be checking that out for sure.

[@veronicathunander4579]

@@davidkreacts He uses their version of “Bridge over Troubled Water” as an example there, just so you know that you will hear some bits from it 😊.

[@jonadabtheunsightly]

The background singing behind "now with your permission" sounds like Eli to me, but I'm not certain; anyone in the group is _capable_ of it, and they all do enough voice acting that it's really hard to be absolutely certain. But it sounds like Eli to me. And yes, Eli can definitely hit notes that low; for live performances, he carries the bass part during Geoff's solos in certain songs (e.g. Moana, Little Mermaid; though the official audio has Geoff double-tracked for those parts). For Oogie Boogie however they use a recording of Geoff's bass background and also Sandy Claws, and then Geoff sings the lead part live. (It's just not practical to have another group member cover the bass background for this one, because it would conflict with their other singing parts, and because it would be pretty much the whole entire song, as Geoff has lead pretty much the whole time. And then since they're using the recording anyway, they put Sandy on it too, avoiding the need for someone to cover his part.)

[@davidkreacts]

That all makes complete sense to me. I'm looking forward to hearing more of Eli's lower range too. Wow - what talents they all are.

[@lkayh]

Wait until you see what Layne did with the rhythm in If I Were a Rich Man/Girl. 😁

[@davidkreacts]

Ooh - very intrigued!

[@WaterBug46]

Just found you bc of Voice Play. Thank you for a fab review. If you love great voices look at Nightwish ‘Ghost Love Score’ live at Wacken open air. Jaw dropping time and key changes plus a voice that generates chills. Floor Jansen. Opera to metal genre known as symphonic metal and from Finland. Another endless and delightful aural and visual delight black hole.

[@davidkreacts]

Thanks for the recommendation. I'm a massive Nightwish fan from back in the day, but haven't listened so much recently. GLS was my favourite song for years, but I might still do a reaction, since I haven't heard Floor sing it - and definitely not live.

[@Haarkad]

Informative and entertaining analysis again thought the audio was a bit quiet on this one.

[@davidkreacts]

Thank you! And I appreciate the comment - I think it's a vast improvement on 16 Tons, but I'm still working to perfect the balance.

[@Lazy1708]

Little mermaid meddly shows Geoff doing a huge slide in one breath :) You should check it out.

[@davidkreacts]

It's on my to-do-soon list - I love the music, so I'm excited to check it out.

[@ruthrussell1329]

That's an E1. Subterranean indeed.

[@davidkreacts]

So impressive, and so clear.

[@jackyfriedman1963]

Santa is played by Geoff's brother in law, Kathy's brother.

[@davidkreacts]

Keeping it in the family still - I love that!

[@lkayh]

I’m pretty sure it’s Eli singing that Phrygian-sounding background bit.

[@davidkreacts]

Phrygian - thank you! I knew it was modal, but I'm terrible at identifying them. Eli makes sense.

[@lkayh]

@@davidkreacts I don’t really know that much about it. I remember a little from music theory in college (which I was horrible at), and then Peter Barber mentioned it in his analysis of If I Were a Rich Man/Girl-this passage sounds similar which is why I said it sounded Phrygian but I couldn’t tell you why. LOL.

[@davidkreacts]

@@lkayh That's as good a reason as any I could come up with! I should really write the modes out and learn them properly!

[@MelodyKnightx]

Rich man/ women has a Geoff rift

[@davidkreacts]

That’s on the list for sure. Not immediate, but probably early next year?

[@LordNomad28592]

If you want to try a different style of acapella, you should try the vocal group, Home Free. I would suggest Man of Constant Sorrow, for your first song from them.

[@davidkreacts]

I've got them on the list for sure - thanks for the recommendation.

[@thomasfarr7934]

Impressive, huh!😉 Most reactors completely miss Geoff's bass riff at "to add a little spice".

[@davidkreacts]

I can understand people missing it - it's subtle, but my goodness, once you hear it...!

[@Techathy]

I think you need to listen to Geoff's cover of House of the Rising Sun.

[@davidkreacts]

That I look forward to - such a great song, and I can't wait to hear what he does with it.

[@colinmoore7460]

How far did he drop? All the way, trust me on this!

[@davidkreacts]

Oh, I believe that! :-D

[@susanbradley5685]

The 3 vs 4 section around 14 minutes into your video...hemiola?

[@davidkreacts]

Actually, yes, but I was thinking of simple time vs. compound time.

[@LordNomad28592]

The lowest note I've heard him do is a B0 in the Halo Theme song.

[@davidkreacts]

Checking that out some time soon. :-)

[@tracysimmons6963]

santa is being played by Geoffs brother in law

[@davidkreacts]

Love how much they keep things in the family. :-)

[@ljk5464]

Actually, he dropped 5 octaves.

[@davidkreacts]

I fear I must disagree - at the end there he drops from a B4 down to an E1, which is a range of 3.5 octaves.

[@razor75250]

The audio is garbage

[@davidkreacts]

Yeah - unfortunately I was still working out the right balance for this video. Much better since, I'm glad to say.