Naturally 7 hypes up audience in vocal play performance

There were no instruments on set, but the sound of sticks clashing onto metal cymbals, the whistle of a flute and the vibrations of a high-pitched electric guitar could be heard from the stage of Yoshi's Jazz Club Wednesday evening. 

What seemed to portray the sound of various instruments was in fact, the voices of talented men dubbed 'Naturally 7."

Naturally 7's enthusiasm and love for music instantaneously grabbed the attention of the audience. Not only did the ensemble provide sounds of nonexistent instruments, but their soulful harmony resembled memorable 1990s groups such as, "All 4 One" and "Boyz 2 Men." 

The group performed songs including, "Wall of Sound," "Say You Love Me" and their very own arrangements of "Broken Wings" and "Feel It (in the air tonight)."

Roger Thomas, the director and rapper of Naturally 7 started the group in 1999 with his brother Warren. Roger wanted to do something unlike a regular a'cappella group and thus, created what he calls "vocal play," the creation and the becoming of instruments through the human voice. 

The club was packed with an energetic crowd who lit up with smiles and cheers as Naturally 7 continued their performance after the time allotted. As the final song ended, the audience members rose to their feet and clapped until their hands became sore. 

 

For those interested in learning more about Naturally 7, visit http://www.naturallyseven.com. The group's latest CD titled, "VocalPlay" will be released in the United States on June 29. 

Naturally 7 YouTube clip