If you are looking for live entertainment for your next event, Orlando has two new options.
1. Yella is an a cappella group with an edge. If you are thinking barbershop quartet, or even the Manhattan Transfer, think again. The group’s music selection includes songs from the '80s, '90s, and more recent pop, with an occasional classic rock song thrown in (they do a unique version of “Bohemian Rhapsody”). The five members came together late last summer, when Jana "Banana" Shelfer, a personality on RealRadio 104.1, mentioned on-air that she wanted to start a female a cappella group. A male listener called to express interest, and the group developed from there. In addition to Shelfer, members include Shannon McGhee, Mike Bustillos, A.C. James, and vocal percussionist (i.e. beatboxer) Scott Pausal, who uses the stage name Rubox. Yella charges $500 for a 35-minute set. More information is available on the group’s Facebook page.
2. On the Double is a female drummer-and-DJ duo that combines high-energy music with drums and dance. DJ Ashley serves as DJ and M.C., while percussionist Atsumi performs on the taiko, tabla, congas, and snare drums. On the Double can accommodate any genre of music, and they can be costumed to fit a variety of themes. All performances end with a tabla solo courtesy of Atsumi, coupled with a belly dance finale by Ashley. On the Double is booked through Day Entertainment and Events for $2,000 for up to four hours.
Photo: Eric Esteban
Photo: Eric Esteban
Photo: Dan Crawford