(Published Dec. 7, PDI-Entertainment)
By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Contributor
Four years after their self-titled debut album and some roster changes later, the Akafellas remain unique-sounding. The group’s brand of “popcapella” is ideal for flavoring the new holiday offering “This Christmas,” a 10-track CD featuring merry interpretations of English and Filipino yuletide carols.
Harmonious vocals are strongly backed by the members’ mimicry of musical instruments, a formula that still works impressively. Live performances of the eight-man group are always a joy to watch, as the vocalists are adept at smoothly weaving intricate parts into solid, energetic pieces. It’s a different experience to listen to the recorded material, but they’re nonetheless taut translations that lose none of the complexity.
The ten chosen songs illustrate some ups and downs of the season, an audible “map” of perspectives ranging from celebration to longing. “Carol of the Bells” creates an air of mystery for the impending festivities, while Boyz II Men-ish harmonies characterize the upbeat love ditty “This Christmas.” The light, Ryan Cayabyab-penned “Heto Na Naman” ponders the true meaning of the season, while its “instrumentation” sounds traditionally Pinoy. The latest version of “Pasko Na Sinta Ko” is solemn, and the original song “Sa Pasko” mirrors some long-distance sentiments.
It’s a decent selection of songs, but it can still make one wish for more of the Akafellas’ distinct re-imagining of other popular favorites, or more of the members’ originals. That said, the outstanding songs easily outnumber the merely adequate ones. It’s definitely not the usual Christmas album, but it still inspires different moods. “This Christmas” exemplifies cohesive team artistry, and offers a unique and pleasant holiday listening experience.
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