It can be difficult, in a festival crammed with a cappella acts, to tell the talented from the dross. I therefore feel like I can help you significantly with this review: No matter what, make sure you see The Oxford Gargoyles perform, because they are exceptional.The set was jazz oriented, which is always a winner for me, taking classic standards like ‘Straighten Up and Fly Right’ and ‘Lullaby of Birdland’ and injecting them with intriguing new arrangements. There was also some great moments where the band explored different ideas, particularly in a great performance of Earth Wind and Fire’s ‘September’. Similarly, a brilliant version of ‘Kiss The Girl’ from The Little Mermaid - complete with boat made out of the choir - was a definite highlight. So easy is it nowadays for an act to outstay their welcome out of need to perform the hits and deliver an excessively long encore. But I was genuinely upset to see The Gargoyles leave the stage and glad when they came back on to deliver a version of The Swingle Singer’s excellent a cappella version of Soul Bossa Nova, complete with some original new Austin Powers references. It was a finale that could not fail to put a massive smile on your face.Not once did the performers look awkward or inept, nor did a harmony fall through. My only real complaints are that sometimes the choreography was a bit poor, although it was done with great fervour, and that the sopranos, whilst incredibly talented, could be overbearing. Shrill high notes should be a rare treat not a constant bombardment, which they had occasion to be.These are minor points. The one important thing is for you to go see them, because you won’t see a better a cappella act this year.
