If you've heard any acapella music on the radio or seen any viral acapella videos within the last five to six years, chances are you saw or listened to popular acapella group called Pentatonix who has been dominating the acapella and viral music scene since their appearance on "The Sing-Off," an American Television Music Competition.
Those who have been fans of the group would know that about a year ago, they lost one of their best singers and lead bass Avi Kaplan, who decided to go his separate ways with the group and pursue his own career as an independent artist with his new group Avriel and The Sequoias.
The announcement had seemingly come from out of nowhere and was posted as a video showing the whole group together while Avi announced his departure from the group. Surprisingly there was also no immediate follow up other than stating that Avi was the only one who would be leaving PTX.
So naturally, losing Avi, who was an original member of the group caused quite an uproar among fans and led to panic among those wondering how the group would recover or if they would continue to perform and create music as a group.
But, in true Pentatonix style, the group brushed off the dust and made a huge comeback in a bigger and better way, soon announcing their newest member Matt Sallee and an upcoming tour. Showcasing their solidarity they made the decision that they were not going to let this bump in the road prevent them from making music they love, which brings me to their huge comeback with their rock and pop self-titled tour that I was able to witness on 7/19.
Now, as a fan who has been there since the early "Sing-Off" days and had seen them perform live on previous tours with the original group, I will admit that I was immediately concerned and anxious knowing that they already sounded different and were already missing one of my favorites from the group. But nevertheless, I bought my tickets and was excited to be present for the greatness.
And greatness it was! From the moment I walked in, I could see fans old and young who were all there to share the music that PTX makes so well. From the opening number "Sing," to the mashups of "Havana" by Camila Cabello and "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran, Pentatonix took you on a musical rock and pop journey bringing heart-wrenching emotional songs and beats that lifted your spirit!
Perhaps that's what I found never changed about this group of artists, It didn't matter if they were without an original member. What mattered was that they were all together and singing together. Yes, they found a new replacement for Avi, but I honestly don't think anyone else would have fit in with the group so well. Matt Sallee is just one part of what makes Pentatonix great, but just from this one concert I could see the influence, happiness and joy he brought to not only the group but to the fans and the tour.
I'll be honest, I was hesitant and worried that I wouldn't feel the same about the "new" Pentatonix. But now, I can proudly say that the little reservation I had couldn't be further from the truth and I look forward to following along with Pentatonix for as long as they will allow their fans too.
