I mean, it’s an undisputed fact that the guys are incredibly brilliant performers and musicians. They have enough medals and mettle between the six of them that they have surpassed superstar status and entered that realm reserved for legends. The 26-year longevity of the group (with only one personnel change 14 years ago) inspires a reverence unparalleled except by only the top echelon of a cappella icons. They have 18 GRAMMY® nominations and have won an astonishing 10 times. They are the most nominated Gospel, Jazz, Pop or R&B artists in the history of the awards. 

And yes, they do put on an amazing performance.

This show was held at Duke University in Durham, NC as part of the MLK celebration weekend. The capacity audience was definitely ready for their heroes return to the Triangle, since the last time we had the pleasure to see them live was in the fall of either 1989 or ’90 when the Pitchforks were the opening act. It’s been a long time and we were differently thirsty for the sweet harmony pouring forth from their mouths. Opening this go ‘round was the Divinity School’s Praise Team. They set the tone for the audience that tonight was about going to CHURCH! And all the sinners in the audience had best be ready to testify!

The guys started with “Come On,” the opening track off of their new album “Feels Good” which will be available March 21 (that’s a Tuesday in case anyone didn’t know – wait, you had to be at the concert to understand) from Take 6 records. Eventually, they would sing three more songs from the album: the title track, “Lamb of God” and “Just in Time.” “Lamb of God” and “Just In Time” was an especially poignant pairing, as Dr. Cedric Dent related to the audience that Jesus Christ’s sacrifice at Calvary saved our souls just in time.

Though <gasp> instruments were played (a bit of piano played by Dr. Dent and Chea here and there, two guitars on “Grandma’s Hands” and an egg), this was definitely an a cappella concert with a lot of spot on mimicking. Introductions were handled through a late night jazz club improv starting with founding member Claude V. McKnight, III and his sleazy trombone. Alvin Chea’s bass was unbelievable, with David Thomas adding a strong rhythmic guitar to the mix. Baby Joel Kibble gave some good muted trumpet, while brother Mark was killer on his clarinet…but he really shone on his vocal percussing throughout the night. I was amazed and appreciative. Kibble definitely ranks with the best of the crop.  

Audience participation was encouraged: from dancing in the aisles and seats, snapping and clapping, to a hearty call-and-response section. Most moving was the underscoring to “Spread Love” the audience’s favorite song. As it was the band’s closing number, the audience took it upon themselves to start singing the phrases again to bring the band back onstage for an encore. I’d never experienced anything like it before. And what an encore, a spirited rendition of “Mary.”

With the trauma that’s been going on in my life recently, this concert was just the antidote to help me “Feel Good!” Let’s hope it doesn’t take the guys 15 more years to return to the Triangle.

Thomas (TeKay) King has been actively involved in the a cappella world since 1990. He was one of the first ambassadors for CASA back in the early '90s. He is the Associate Editor of the Contemporary A Cappella News magazine and has been involved with the ICCAs since 1996.

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