Aberdeen University's award winning a capella group, four women and five men, tell a love story for the Tinder generation. They took turns in setting the scene for each number, providing some thematic narrative to a bunch of otherwise unconnected pop songs, and proved competent narrators. (If a bit ageist at times....)
They made self deprecating references to their dance routines and while these weren't up to the standard of the vocals the choreography added a lot to the visual appeal of the act. At least I didn't see anyone bumping into each other! (Although Ross Keightley needs to be more aware of the impression he makes with his hand movements.)
But it's the songs that matter and there were some impressively complex arrangements and great harmonies. Most of the group got their chance to perform solos and there were no weak links there either. Vic Metcalf might not have the best voice technically, but hers was the most interesting of the group, suggesting a potential future in blues and soul. The other women lacked her gutsy power, but all had sweet voices. Colum Findlay recently won an award as a soloist and it's easy to see why, although his slightly querulous tone is not to my taste. I was most impressed by Josh Baillie, the hard working vocal 'percussionist', who did one brief solo and sounded the best of the men.
An enjoyable way to start a Fringe day.
Aberpella Presents is on in Surgeon's Hall at 10.30 until 26 August.
No comments:
Post a Comment