By LeAnna Hamblin
After 17 years, the audience still adores Eclipse 6 in their traditional concert series at The Grand Theatre
in Salt Lake City presented by FM 100.3. Proclaimed as their most favorite place to perform, the
gentlemen of Eclipse 6 choose to bring the spirit of Christmas to their fans through their love of a
Capella music. From the first, harmony of “I Saw Three Ships,” my heart was instantly cheered, growing
three times its normal size with Christmas spirit.
This tightly knit group has been performing together for more than twenty years, since their college
days at Utah State University. After losing two original members, Kevin Jones, Paul Hansen, Shayne
Taylor, and Dan Kartchner welcomed James Case and Jake Despain to complete their sound. Each of
these talented men have unique roles in the group but work so closely and rely so deeply on one
another, their sound is unified and natural, like one instrument playing all the intricate parts.
Hansen, with his impressive high tenor vocals, leads the group in many of their songs. Despain is also
featured on lead vocals in many numbers. Kartchner’s soulful baritone adds a pleasant tone to the
group. Jones drives the music with his clever and intricate rhythms, acting as a human drum set
complete with sleigh bells, while also adding harmonies when called for. Taylor and Case round out the
group with their rich low harmonies. During the classic “White Christmas,” Case’s rich bass is the perfect
pairing with Hansen’s clear tenor voice, both sharing the lead. While their roles in the group are clearly
defined, it is apparent that all six gentlemen are there to support and help each other shine onstage.
Their love for God, Christmas, community, and family is apparent as they share stories that tell why
particular songs are so meaningful to them, especially during this time of year. Hansen recounts his
upbringing in a musically rich home. On road trips, if the radio stopped working, his family would sing
their way to their destination. He dedicates the song “Still, Still, Still” to his father who has had a
significant influence on Hansen’s musical career and love of Christmas.
Much of what makes Christmas so special is the memories one has from this time of year. Eclipse 6 loves
to share their memories and bring memories back to those in the audience. Despain recounts how he
loves to share his music traditions with his own family, singing carols for all to enjoy. “Christmas as a
Child” is about all the wonderful things any child would love to experience during this time of year and
how we can keep the magic alive even as adults.
There are moments that the audience is able to ponder what Christmas might be like without the
love of family or home. “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” is dedicated to those who are not fortunate enough
to be home for the holidays. I was especially touched at the simple rendition of “Hark the Herald Angels”
as the group came together without microphones or special light effects, performing this song with the
reverence it deserves.
Eclipse 6 is a class act that anyone would be privileged to see. Audiences will leave the concert feeling
happier and more joyful. The FM 100.3 Eclipse 6 Christmas Concert Series is the perfect way to get into
the Christmas spirit with the special people in your life.
FM 100.3 presents Eclipse 6 Christmas Concert Series at The Grand Theatre.
The Grand Theatre, 1575 S State Street, Salt Lake City, Utah 84115
December 9, 10, 12, 7:00 PM, Matinee December 10, 1:30 PM
Tickets: $10-$35
Contact: 801-957-3322
The Grand Theatre Facebook Page
Eclipse 6
Contact: 801-243-6024, mail@eclipse6.com
Eclipse 6 Facebook Page
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