Think Twice

Album Review

How can these guys be so incredible? What makes this album stay in your CD spinner so long? Why can't you get their songs out of your head? If you want to know what "a cappella" is all about, pick this album up and guard it with your life. It's the best thing that's come along for vocal groups since harmony. A cappella music, as this album proves, is supposed to start the party, keep it going, then slow it down and help you relive the moments that make life worth living. In this case, you can thank songwriter Patrick Rose and company for the greatest set of feel-good harmonies to come out of Utah. And don't think these guys stick to their home state, either. You were likely one of the 3.5 billion viewers who saw them perform in the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic opening ceremonies. Their global television debut packed a fire into their songwriting and performing, making them wonder where to go after a stellar debut album, Once. The guys shatter genre boundaries not only with their choice of cover tunes, but with their effortless vocal inflections. This time, they dove into two new bags of cover songs: classic rock and local favorites. Who knew it was possible to conquer "Owner of a Lonely Heart" without a crunching guitar? And how pleasing it is to hear Peter Breinholt's "My Maria" and Colors' "Ashes" sans instruments. Think Twice accomplishes everything a cappella music should: it fills you with energy, makes you smile, and gives new sound to old favorites. Eclipse secures a long, bright future with its songwriting. "Close to Me" captures the pinnacle of true love so tenderly that you can't help but close your eyes and tune in to the feelings. "Live It on Up" and "Keep Pushin' On" offer uncompromised messages of vitality. What else can they say? This is the brightest spot for a cappella to date.