Aronoff Center
November 11, 2010

These Acafellas could give the kids on Glee a run for their money. Ten guys in suits, a that group was originally formed in 1996 on the campus of Indiana University. After some holiday hits and going viral as youtube sensations, they are currently a traveling tour of acapella aficionados.

SNC kicked off the night with a rendition of “Joy to the World.” That was a mere introduction to what the rest of the night would behold. Then, they preceded to perform songs from The Beatles, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Oasis, Jason Mraz and others. “I’m Yours” was such a hit with the audience, a cute little girl in the crowd softly spoke out “that song is on the radio.” Indeed it was and too much. Thankfully the Straight No Chaser arrangement of the song did not feel as overplayed as Mr. Mraz’s.

The most tranquil song of the night came from the band Coldplay. The guys formed a semicircle with the microphone stands in place… Lights will guide you home – And ignite your bones – And I will try to fix you.

Breaking it down with some Motown favorites

In between songs each member introduced himself with a bio and anecdotes about the group. Included in the stories was 100% approval on flash photography and video recording during the performance. Guess that is what happens when youtube brings you fame. Ok, so I went a little camera happy. This was a rare opportunity, so as an audience member I gained particular satisfaction in snapping photo op moments.

Intermission approached at a rapid pace. Only one more hour before the fun would be over. Tear:( Upon the return SNC serenaded, well that isn’t quite the word, but work with me, serenaded us to a musical montage of cartoon theme songs. Then we were wowed with a mash-up of the 80s hit “Poison” alongside the moon walking “Billie Jean.”

Before closing up the second act the group captivated us with the biggest pop icon of this generation. Yes I went there… Lady Gaga. Somehow her songs sound better when they are arranged and sung by others. Case in point with Straight No Chaser. Rah, rah,  ah, ah, ah. Want your bad romance. Just Dance!

Summing up the night: we want some more, we want some more. The group returned for two encores. 1.) Their famous 12 days of Christmas (youtube it). 2.) Sans microphones “In the Still of the Night”

On the Larry David scale of pretty goodness they were pretty, pretty, pretty, pretty GOOD. Of course I left the Aronoff that night with a wish list of songs they didn’t perform, but boy oh boy those boys were good. Talented, Fun, and downright Entertaining. Plus, they all looked pretty slick in their suits (Barney Stinson is right after all).

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