A cappella conjures up visions of old men in suspenders. Semiscon (神秘失控人聲樂團), Taiwan's most popular a cappella group, however, fly in the face of that popular conception. A collection of 10 long-time friends, the group is young, hip, and innovative.
Formed in 2003, the group sings a mix of American, Latin, and Taiwanese pop songs, the first Taiwanese a cappella group to do so. Final Countdown by Europe sits comfortably beside songs from past Golden Melody award winners and musical show tunes. The band's large size makes this creative mix possible. In addition to the traditional melodic section — soprano, alto, tenor, and bass — Semiscon also has two vocal percussionists. These highly skilled individuals, E.Ray (江翊睿) and Jerry (陳午明), mimic tom-toms, bongos, maracas, and a variety of Brazilian instruments to great effect.
Their variety and talent have impressed crowds the world over. Winning their first competition in 2003, The Taiwan A Cappella Competition, the band has continued to shine on the local and international stage. In 2004, they won the Austrian Vocal dot Total International A Capella Competition. Then last year, they and their self-titled album were nominated in the Best Music Group category of the Golden Melody Awards, alongside pop heavyweights like S.H.E.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SEMISCON
Most recently, they've been on an international tour. This past Spring they performed throughout Europe, visiting five countries and thirteen cities. Over the next two months they'll travel to Canada and the US. But for those who wish to see what all the hype is about, Semiscon will be performing tomorrow in Da-an Park.
Billed as the group's biggest show yet, it will be a feast for both the ears and eyes. Every member of the band has a background in theater, so dancing and costume design feature prominently in their performance. Past costumes include white, strawberry laden pants. Their dedication to visuals, however, extends beyond costumes. Their Da-an show will feature top-notch lighting, set design, and special effects. The group will also premiere never heard before material.
Calling the band's live show “cute and fun,” Sylvia (林孟慧), one of the group's soprano's, says “the purpose of the show is for the audience to have fun and relax.” Look, then, for band members to regularly make jokes and establish a rapport with the audience. They're not above playing a TV ad or movie jingle, either. “So,” encourages Sylvia, “bring your Coke, beer, or dog” and chill out. But don't be too relaxed, as the band will be recording the event for DVD and CD release. “Please shout out loud, we want to record your shouting.”
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