Stream Pentatonix’s Impressive ‘PTX Presents: Top Pop, Vol. I’

Mike Nied | April 13, 2018 11:39 am

A cappella supergroup Pentatonix touched down with their highly anticipated new album PTX Presents: Top Pop, Vol. I today, and it is bursting with reimagined hits. 2017 was a transitional year for the quintet with the departure of their bass, Avi Kaplan. However, that didn’t stop them from rolling out a re-release of their A Pentatonix Christmas LP, embarking on a holiday tour across North America and hosting a festive TV special. They hit the ground running in 2018 and are offering up their first full body of work with a new bass. All things considered, they have never sounded better.

We have already heard a trio of tracks from the project including a searing cover of Camila Cabello’s breakout “Havana.” In their very capable hands, the chart topping single is transformed thanks to an impressive arrangement and some clever harmonies. The group went for a solid one-two punch by rolling out a mash-up of Dua Lipa’s “New Rules” and Aaliyah’s fan-favored “Are You That Somebody.” Relying on new bass Matt Sallee, they stole the show with the imaginative reworking and followed that up with another winner when they tackled Charlie Puth’s “Attention.”

The tracklist includes a cappella renditions of major pop bops from the likes of Kesha, Ed Sheeran, Demi Lovato and Julia Michaels. It looks like the group is shifting their attention to their reworking of Ed’s “Perfect.” With beat box extraordinaire Kevin Olusola showing off his skills on the cello and Scott Hoying delivering a stunning lead vocal, the track is a clear highlight. This morning they rolled out an accompanying video that brings the soulful cover to life. Shot in a gorgeous warehouse, the group serves stunning looks.

Other highlights include an innovative mash-up of last year’s chart smashing anthems “Despacito” and “Shape Of You.” The decision to blend the songs highlights the group’s innovative abilities and makes for an absolute smash. Kirstin Maldonado takes the lead vocal on a rendition of “Issues” and effortlessly brings the tender mid-tempo to life while Mitch Grassi highlights his distinctive voice on an invigorating interpretation of Portugal. The Man’s “Feel It Still.”

Throughout the LP the group highlights their various talents to perfect effect, and they have a couple of obvious hits on their hands. With plans to embark on a tour this summer, it is clear that Pentatonix will be on our lips for the rest of the year and beyond. Give the LP a spin below!

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