The Rice Philharmonics, the oldest a cappella group on campus, have recently released their album "still phil," marking the culmination of a project that began in 2022. The album features a nine-song tracklist, each an a cappella arrangement of mainstream songs, showcasing the group's exceptional vocal talents and creative prowess.

Elevating the Ordinary into the Extraordinary

Crafting Unique Arrangements

The Philharmonics' approach to their album "still phil" is truly remarkable. As the group's music director, Josh Paik, explains, the Phils are unique in their ability to arrange all of their own music, a rarity among collegiate a cappella groups. This hands-on approach allows the members to have a significant influence in shaping the album's setlist, ensuring that the songs chosen resonate with the entire group.According to Phils' president, Rita Ajit, the group engaged in extensive discussions to determine the final tracklist, fostering a collaborative and inclusive decision-making process. This level of input from each member is a testament to the Phils' commitment to creating an album that truly reflects their collective artistic vision.

Mastering the Art of A Cappella

The recording process for "still phil" was a new and challenging experience for the Philharmonics, as they ventured into the realm of studio production. Dhilani Premaratne, the group's publicity manager, recounts the meticulous approach they took, spending hours in Fondren Library's basement, the digital media commons, to capture each song in its entirety without excessive editing.This dedication to perfection is further exemplified by the group's beatboxer, Josh Paik, who faced the unique challenge of translating his rhythmic contributions into the album's final mix. Paik's innovative approach to enhancing the songs' rhythmic elements showcases the Phils' commitment to elevating their a cappella arrangements to new heights.

Preserving Memories and Traditions

The release of "still phil" is a bittersweet moment for the Philharmonics, as the album's artistic touches and vocal contributions include members who have since graduated. The group's president, Rita Ajit, highlights the enduring legacy of the Phils, with traditions like the annual homecoming performance of "Africa" by Toto, which invites alumni to join the current members on stage.The album's title, "still phil," holds a deeper meaning for the Philharmonics, as it represents the enduring spirit of the group, even as its members come and go. Ajit eloquently expresses the sentiment that Phils is more than just the activities and performances; it's the lasting friendships and memories that continue to shape the lives of both current and former members.

Captivating Audiences with Vocal Artistry

The Philharmonics' "still phil" album is a testament to the group's exceptional vocal talents and their ability to transform mainstream songs into captivating a cappella arrangements. By leveraging their collaborative approach to arrangement and production, the Phils have created an album that not only showcases their technical prowess but also their emotional connection to the music.As listeners press play on "still phil," they are invited to embark on a journey of discovery, where the familiar melodies of artists like Joji, Conan Gray, and Taylor Swift are reimagined through the Philharmonics' unique vocal harmonies. This album is a celebration of the group's artistry, their dedication to their craft, and the enduring legacy of the Phils, which continues to inspire and captivate audiences both on and off the stage.