Pentatonix & Lauren Alaina – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, NJ – Sunday, August 20, 2023
Review & Photos by Lori Schneider (IG: @LoriSchneiderPhotography)
Fans of all ages gathered for a night of unforgettable music and performances as Pentatonix, a renowned a cappella group known for their exceptional vocal harmonies, along with support from Lauren Alaina, brought The World Tour 2023 to Holmdel, NJ ending the weekend with unforgettable performances for a packed house.
Lauren Alaina is an American country singer and songwriter. She gained fame as the runner-up on the tenth season of the reality singing competition show “American Idol” in 2011. Her voice is characterized by its powerful and soulful qualities, often blending elements of country, pop, and a touch of rock.
Alaina’s vocal range allows her to hit high notes with ease, and she’s known for her emotive delivery and ability to connect with her audience. Her interaction with her band was fun and entertaining. Her singing style often incorporates a mix of storytelling and emotional depth, which are common features in country music. Over the years, she has developed a versatile voice that can adapt to various musical genres and moods.
It’s worth noting that artists’ voices can evolve over time due to vocal training, personal growth, and the influence of different musical experiences. Her growth and her performance were top notch, making a memorable performance for old and new fans alike.
Lauren Alaina can be found online at www.laurenalainaofficial.com and on Instagram @laurenalaina.
As the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted into cheers as Pentatonix walked onto the stage to thunderous applause. The stage setup was simple yet effective, allowing the focus to remain on the group’s unparalleled vocal talents.
The setlist was a perfect blend of their original songs, covers, and some surprises (Loren Allred). They kicked off with a powerful rendition of an Imagine Dragons cover “Radioactive”, immediately showcasing their impeccable vocal precision. Moving right into their new song “I Rise” they then followed with “Can’t Sleep Love”. Throughout the performance, the group members – Scott Hoying (baritone), Mitch Grassi (high tenor), Kirstin Maldonado (mezzo-soprano), Kevin Olusola (beat boxer, vocal percussion, baritenor, cellist), and Matt Sallee (bass vocals) – effortlessly displayed their range and versatility.
Pentatonix treated the audience to a series of their well-known covers, ranging from pop hits to classic songs, all reimagined with their signature a cappella twist. Their ability to recreate instrumentals and textures using only their voices is nothing short of astonishing.
The chemistry among the group members was palpable, and their banter between songs added a personal touch to the performance. It was evident that they were genuinely enjoying themselves on stage, and their enthusiasm was infectious.
The production value of the concert was top-notch. Creative lighting, mesmerizing visuals, and perfectly timed effects complemented the music without overshadowing the main attraction – Pentatonix’s exceptional vocal prowess. The stage design changed throughout the show, enhancing the overall experience.
As the concert drew to a close, Pentatonix brought the energy to its peak. The crowd was on its feet, dancing and singing along with unmatched enthusiasm. The encore left everyone buzzing with excitement, and the standing ovation was well-deserved.
My expectations were high, and I can confidently say that they exceeded every one of them with their mesmerizing performance. The Pentatonix concert was an extraordinary experience that showcased the group’s exceptional talents and left the audience awe-struck. From their harmonious vocals to their engaging stage presence, every aspect of the performance was a testament to their dedication to their craft. If you ever have the chance to see Pentatonix live in concert, do not miss out – it’s an unforgettable musical journey.
Pentatonix can be found online at www.ptxofficial.com and on Instagram @ptxofficial.
