30 Days of Thankfulness: Day 12 - Straight No Chaser: Christmas Cheers

Straight No Chaser is an a cappella  group formed at Indiana University in 1996.  Around the time of their 10th anniversary, someone posted a 1998 video of their version of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" on the Internet.  It went "viral," and they gained a widespread following.  The reunited group now tours and records, with their outstanding a cappella vocals.

While there are several, excellent sacred pieces, such as "O Holy Night" and "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen," the album also has a variety of fun secular songs.  However, even the sacred ones can get a twist.  "We Three Kings" has this driving beat that calls "Mission: Impossible" to mind.

"You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" is a family favorite.  The group does a ... well, it's not really a descant with male voices, is it?  Anyway, there is a counter-melody that blends well with the flow of the song.  It gives a fresh feel to this secular classic.

Of course, the most popular song for this group is their rendition of "The Twelve Days of Christmas."  It is a mixed-up conglomeration of many songs, adding hilarity in the variety.  Listen for other carols to find their way into the mix, as well as the Dreidel Song!  Yet the great, laugh-out-loud moment comes with Toto's "Africa."