Washington University co-ed a cappella group After Dark hosted its annual Halloween concert in Holmes Lounge Saturday. After Dark highlighted its signature edgy and unique sound with its song choices.

Courtesy of After Dark

After Dark performs the song “Renegade” by Styx at their annual Halloween concert in Holmes Lounge Saturday. “Renegade” was arranged by sophomore Aalisha Jaisinghani.

“Renegade”

Styx
After Dark’s “Renegade”, arranged by sophomore Aalisha Jaisinghani, brings an a cappella twist to the 1979 rock hit. Senior soloist Jeanette Freiberg’s voice maintained the rock vibe of the original, which was enhanced by strategic pausing, great vocal percussion (which remained consistently great throughout the set) and a strong trio to draw out the song’s harmonies. After Dark’s darker rock side shines with this selection.

“Neu Roses/Send Them Off!”

Daniel Caesar/Bastille
This mash-up arranged by sophomore Katie Whitlock showcases After Dark’s experimentality with genre. Fusing an R&B, neo-soul piece with an indie rock jam let soloists, senior Izzy Kornblau and Whitlock, put a spotlight on After Dark’s capability for a wide breadth of genre. This unlikely combination of songs layered together unexpectedly well, showcasing After Dark’s ear for identifying a good mix.

“One More Night”

Sawyer Bletscher
One More Night is an After Dark original composed by senior Sawyer Bletscher, with lyrics by Jaisinghani. After Dark isn’t just a group of performing powerhouses; it also boasts strong song-writing ability. Haunting, rock-influenced piece “One More Night” exemplifies both qualities.

“Desperado”

The Eagles
After Dark takes on another ‘70s hit with the Eagles’ “Desperado”, arranged by senior Lex Payne. This arrangement captures and capitalizes on the haunting quality of the original, using the vocals of the block to create a sonic experience fitting to the song. As seen before with “Renegade”, After Dark is gifted with putting a twist on a celebrated classic.

“In the Name of Love”

Martin Garrix
A unique take on a popular song, this arrangement by After Dark alum Nick Youmans takes a recent electric-pop chart-topper and draws out its most appealing music elements, featuring strong vocal percussion and impressive harmonies. This arrangement features what was arguably the highlight of the concert, Kornblau’s brief, but impeccable counter solo bringing in Abba’s hit “Lay All Your Love on Me” for two lines. This addition is emblematic of After Dark’s skill with arranging truly unique pieces.

If you missed their concert, give one of After Dark’s many studio albums a listen on Spotify or iTunes.