Barbershop quartets have been a distinct part of Americana 7/12/10 Dr. Alan Denney Barbershop quartets have been a distinct part of Americana for over a century. Societies of those who relish performing this genre of music are virtually everywhere in the United States. One can honestly say that there is no other music like it---it stands alone in quality, energy and just plain fun. The recent performance of McPhly, the Denver-based barbershop quartet, at Performance Park on Saturday, July 17, was an amazing delight for the ears. The concert was a benefit performance for the Supporters of Performing Arts in Estes Park. McPhly is comprised of Brian Fox, Curtis Terry, Travis Tabares, and Brian Gallatin Wilson. The quartet began in 2008 and has been strong competitors in barbershop contests throughout the region. Performing a wide variety of music and selections, McPhly is not a typical barbershop quartet as one is accustomed to hearing. Their arrangements of the Eagles’ Desperado, Ella Fitzgerald’s Rock It For Me, and Van Morrison’s Moondance, show that this group has made intentional decisions to steer away from traditional barbershop material. Singing these selections in the barbershop style brings new life and vitality to the standards, which in the end, shows the durability of the music itself. While performing these pieces was their forte (no pun intended!), their sense of humor and on-stage banter revealed that these four men have not only spent a lot of rehearsal time together developing their craft but they actually have fun performing. It makes the listener feel as if we were all sitting around in a living room just having a delightful evening. The ninety-minute performance was highlighted by the sentimental favorite, Home On The Range. McPhly’s strength is in their blend and musical sensitivity and it was in this piece that their true abilities shone through. In essence, barbershop quartet music is alive and well. When McPhly returns to Estes Park, make it a priority to attend their concert. You will not be disappointed. Special thanks goes to Supporters of the Performing Arts for their hosting of this wonderful evening.