(Photo courtesy of Cantus)
June 3 to 11, The Cowles Center
Provided by Cantus (Cover photo by Curtis Johnson)
Cantus takes its annual pop concert a step forward when it performs one of the “greatest albums of all time” (Rolling Stone) in its entirety – The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds. Covers, on stage June 3 to 11 at 7:30 pm at the Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts, shows off the versatility and multiple talents of the nine members of Cantus as they collaborate to create and perform original arrangements of pop favorites new and old.
Cantus takes the essence of Pet Sounds and explores the album through different genres and styles including jazz, bluegrass, funk and even ballads. The first half of the concert features the seven songs from Side 1, including “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and ending before intermission with “Sloop John B.” After intermission, Side 2 is performed starting with “God Only Knows.” The album portion of the concert is bookended by additional covers of popular tunes by well-known artists from the 60s, 80s and today.
What inspired the full performance of Pet Sounds? Cantus programs with an objective to perform compelling narratives or thematic concerts. So when it came to pop music, Pet Sounds composer Brian Wilson’s deeply personal yet universal storyline and the Beach Boys’ lush harmonies became an obvious choice for Covers. The concert also coincides with the 50th anniversary re-issue of the influential album.
Chris Foss, Cantus bass, said, “Pet Sounds is a coming of age story with a bittersweet pastiche of songs recalling the pangs of unrequited love. Many say the album elevated pop recordings to a larger, grander art form – one that collectively lives and breathes together. That resonated with us and the album really speaks to the narrative program that we strive to create.”
Covers also brings a live band into the mix – with Cantus members singing and playing alongside some of the Twin Cities’ most talented musicians including Lee Blaske (keyboards/woodwinds), Jeremy Boettcher (bass) and David Schmalenberger (drums).
Cantus
Recognized for their artistic excellence and musical versatility, the nine members of Cantus rehearse and perform as chamber musicians, working without a conductor or music director, allowing audiences to experience a direct connection to the singers. Committed to a cappella presentation of significant music, Cantus is renowned for adventurous programming spanning many periods and genres, including newly commissioned work. The ensemble enjoys a vigorous schedule of international touring, concerts in its homebase of Minneapolis/St. Paul, educational outreach programs and recording.
Tickets
June 3-11, 7:30pm
The Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts
528 Hennepin Avenue
612.435.0055 or cantussings.org
See related: All Music News on MinnyApple.com
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