Managing editor
At first glance, Six Appeal looks like a typical men’s vocal group, except for one difference. There are seven members instead of six.
The group actually started with six members and expanded to include the seventh singer. The group kept its original name because their following knew them by that name and they didn’t want to start from “square one.”
Another unique feature about the group is they sing a capella — that is without musical instruments. Their voices provide the harmony with a beatbox melody, combining for a unique blend.
At first listen, the group sounds like a combination of Bob Marley and Boys 2 Men. Keeping perfect pitch, the group of talented vocalists formed in 2007, and all are students at Concordia College.
The group has a wide broad variety of musical tastes and experiences that add to their unique smooth blend and sound.
With a solid fan base throughout Minnesota and North Dakota, the group performs 20-30 times during the school year and nearly every weekend during the summer.
Marion High School graduate Michael Brookens is lead vocalist and sings tenor. He also writes music for the group. The other members sing tenor, baritone, and bass, to provide that perfect blend. Brookens and five of the other members are completing their junior year, the seventh completed his sophomore year.
With graduation in the future, the group is unsure which direction their talents will go.
When they perform
Six Appeal will perform at Friday night’s concert, June 5, prior to the main act of rock and roll legend, Foghat. The group also will perform Saturday.
Buttons
Buttons are on sale for $25 each until May 31 for all events, including Friday’s concert with Six Appeal and Foghat, and Saturday night’s show with The Bellamy Brothers. After May 31, buttons are $35 each.
The button is good for a Friday evening barbecue and ice cream social and Saturday events including interactive sports such as a horseshoe pitching contest, Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament, and amusements in Marion’s Central Park.
Children 10 and under get in free.
A Saturday pass is available for $6 for those 11 and older who plan to participate in Saturday’s events. Passes may be purchased at the park the day of the festival.
A non-denominational Sunday church service is June 7 at USD 408 Performing Arts Center, southeast of the park.
Buttons are available at Marion National Bank, Central National Bank in Marion and Hillsboro, Marion Healthmart Pharmacy, City of Marion, Marion Chamber of Commerce, Western Associates, Carlsons’ Grocery, Tampa State Bank, and G&J Video.