Swinging For The Fences

Fans wanting to overdose on vocals headed to Lula Lounge on Tuesday for a show by Retrocity. This 8-member a cappella group arranges 80s tune to include all the instruments and sound effects. They liven up their show with retro wear and (un)-coordinated dance move.

Since I have seen them many times, I know most of their repertoire. But their entire oeuvre is large enough that it would take 3-4 sets to do all the songs. So tonight, over 2 sets, they did some MJ (Rock With U), Cancon (Never Surrender), and perennial favourites (I Feel For You). They seemed to be mining numerous British tunes from Queen, George Michael, and Sting this evening.

Perhaps this was due to the friends portion of "Retrocity and Friends". Because the Swingle Singers, celebrating their 50th year, came on stage to do 2 sets of tunes, too. What a bargain for a cappella nerds because this group usually charge more than the modest $15 cover. They were definitely at a higher calibre: not only because they are professional touring singers, whereas some members of Retrocity do it for fun. But they also use more complex arrangements while Retrocity's aim is faithful reproduction. So whether it was a tongue-in-cheek You Oughta Know, a jazzy Single Ladies, a traditional Turkish folk (Gemiler Giresune), or a rousing Libertango, they got cheers for their fun stage presence and beautiful voices.

The night ended with both groups joining forces (15 singers!) during the encore for John Farnham's You're The Voice. That rendition brought the house down with the 3rd standing ovation.