2003 Chicago Regional Winners: NightwatchNightwatch was formed in December of 1998 as a result of a lost bet, or at least it seems that way sometimes. Matt (a fireman Ò ask him to show you his Dalmatian), Paul (international secret agent/sock garter model), Dan (the new voice behind that AFLAC duck) and Scott (not sure what he's doing this week) have been verbally berating each other ever since meeting in Greendale WI's Midwest Vocal Express, also known as the 2002 5th Place Bronze Medallist Barbershop Chorus. Their consistent refusal to sing any song seriously actually paid off in August of 2000, as they were crowned the Buckeye Invitational Funny Bone Comedy Quartet Champions after performing their now infamous (this means "more than famous", right?) Diner Set in front of tens of people in Columbus OH. Their latest achievement occurred in April of 2001, when they duped an esteemed judging panel just enough to capture the Land OÌLakes Division I Quartet Championship. No matter what the venue, you can expect high-quality singing and a wide array of musical styles from this group. What you can't expect is for them to go to bed early and to have serious conversations with each other, or anyone else for that matter. 2003 Chicago Regional: Second Place RendezvousRendezvous is a mixed a cappella quartet from the Chicago area. This is their first appearance in the Harmony Sweepstakes. They have very diverse interests and careers, but share a common joy in singing a cappella music. All four are accomplished singers in the barbershop style, now they get together to sing in a style that is truly their own. Their repertoire ranges from popular songs to jazz, folk and gospel, and there is sure to be something for everybody in each of their performances. 2003 Chicago Regional: Third PlaceStraight CompanyStraight Company is like a musical magnet, drawing together diverse styles and transforming them into something uniquely there own. Although they have experimented with different musical styles and formats over the years, they remain true to their a cappella roots and continue to deliver vibrant, airtight harmonies reminiscent of nothing you have heard before. Straight Company began over twenty-five years ago as a concept to blend the sounds of the founders’ African heritage with the sounds of the world at large to create a new and exciting style. The group has performed all over America and in many foreign countries and for an impressive list of dignitaries and events. Events such as Hosanna, The ELCA National Convention, Jubilee, Evangelism Connections, several of the Six Flags theme parks, Winter Fest, The Crystal Cathedral, Vice President Gore, and many other dignitaries. Straight Company’s CD "So Excited" charted in many markets around the USA and their latest, "Courtesy of God" won Album of the year at the CAMAs (Contemporary A cappella Music Awards) for 2002. Other 2003 Chicago Regional CompetitorsBlue JupiterBlue Jupiter is an explosion of harmony! Formed in 2001 to explore and celebrate the power and beauty of the human voice, they have been compared to Rockapella, M-Pact, and the Blenders. In the short year they've been together, they've already carved themselves a reputation for delivering power-packed shows, stunning arrangements, and tasteful, creative original music. EAR CANDY is their first release, nominated for 2 CARA's, including Best Album, and has been hailed as a sign that Blue Jupiter is the "Next Shining Star" in the world of vocal music.onsin College Showcase in April. Four BettysWhat's all the commotion? Why, it's Four Bettys! This exciting quartet has made a name for itself with an upbeat style. The Bettys began singing in February 2002, and have quickly become one of barbershop’s rising stars, winning 2nd Place only 3 months later at the SAI Region 3 competition, and the Overall Female Quartet Championship at the Buckeye Invitational in August. Four Bettys share a love of performing with an a cappella repertoire including doo-wop, barbershop and pop music. Marcoux CornerMarcoux Corner, originally from Fargo, ND, is now based out of the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. This four piece group tours full-time, all over the country, putting on an entertaining, interactive and fun-filled show for clients of all ages. They've been a professional group for 2 years, they have one CD under their belt and have been honored with invitations to sing for the President and share the stages with many national touring acts, including the Beach Boys. No LimitNo Limit, the hottest new vocal band out of the midwest, has been captivating audiences everywhere. With soaring, soulful lead voices; tight harmonies; killer percussion; energetic stage presence; exciting choreography; and contemporary, 98 Degrees/*NSYNC looks, No Limit has great audience appeal. Already being featured on regional U.S. radio with its debut single, "All My Love," and having appeared at schools, colleges, fairs, festivals and other public, civic and private/corporate events, the group is currently being considered for its debut in Japan. With a repertoire covering pop hits and original songs, there really *is* No Limit to how far this 5-man vocal band can go! ShircagoShircago formerly a collegiate group at the University of Chicago, has metamorphosed into a vibrant, dynamic vocal band and makes its debut with the new lineup at the Sweeps. Over the years, Shircago has performed at Bar Mitzvahs, fund-raisers, festivals, retirement homes, and on tour. Shircago's eclectic repertoire ranges from Renaissance pieces to original compositions, and fuses Jewish tradition with contemporary a cappella sound. Shircago looks forward to establishing itself as one of the nation's premier Jewish vocal bands. Vocal ChaosVocal Chaos is an all-male a cappella band performing classic rock and popular music from the past four decades, including hits ranging from the Jackson 5 and the Rolling Stones to MatchBox 20 and the Dave Matthews Band, and everything in between. Founded in 1996, this semi-pro group (consisting of consultants, actors, programmers, marketers, teachers, service reps, and map-makers by day) performs throughout the Chicagoland area at corporate events, charity functions, and a host of other public venues. These guys live to sing the songs you know and love in a way you've never heard them before. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
