Let's shake things up prediciton-wise, just for fun. The only show I've seen live this year was Carmel's first competition, so I'm sure a lot has changed since then.
GC: Los Alamitos Sound FX (BC)
1RU: Carmel Ambassadors (BV)
2RU: Petal Soundsations
3RU: Zionsville Royalaires (BB)
4RU: Daniel Hand VIBE
5RU: Auburn Varsity Singers
What makes you give Los Al best vocals over groups like Zionsville who took vocals from CG, a group that beat Los Al last year and hadn't dropped a vocal caption in 3 years, and also Carmel who took vocals from FC, a group that swept Zionsville?
The diversity of style in Los Al’s show is one that is extremely telling of their vocal talent to star with. Every intricate little detail is done to perfection and adds something to their show. That’s not to say that other groups don’t do this as well, because they do. But the way Los Al executes their insanely difficult arrangements whilst maintaining healthy singing and powerful singing is something that goes overshadowed by many audience members that the judges have to take into account. The sound they created on Saturday was one I haven’t heard in a long time from a group. Granted, I have only seen Zionsville on video but I still don’t see Los Al losing vocals. It’s also important to note that at nationals we almost never see caption splits. (the last time being 2015, which is a decade ago) And another point to note is the improvement from last year to this years Los Al, night to day. Until Saturday night I had Carmel winning the competition.
I completely agree with that, their show is incredible! But I do also think similarly that way of Carmel. Seeing their show in person was truly a treat, I think it's anyones game of course, but I think Carmel might take it. Los Al's stunning show design is what always attracts the audience opinion, but on a technical standpoint I feel Carmel is just a hair stronger.
I get where your coming from because Carmel is a strong group, but seeing Los Al in person reminded me of how incredible they are. Los Al is the pinnacle of show choir—flawless, untouchable, and endlessly imitated. With vocals that soar, choreography that snaps like clockwork, and a stage presence that feels larger than life, they don’t just perform—they dominate. Every detail is razor-sharp, every moment calculated and electrifying. For years, Los Al has set the bar so high, it’s practically untouchable. Legends aren’t born—they’re built. And Los Al built the blueprint.
I agree with having Los Al in first with Vocals and Choreo. Carmel and Zionsville will both bring the house down with their vocals, but there is just something about Los Al's dynamics and blend that's just magical. Not saying that the other groups here don't also have incredible sounds but Los Al's blend is just something else. Also, I agree with the note on how SCN has not ended in split captions in 10 years, and also finals is a ranking system which makes it very hard to split captions even though it's possible. I would not be surprised however if Carmel or Zionsville took vocals.
I think Los Alamitos will take home the Chip this year. Sound FX is the advanced mixed show choir of Los Alamitos High School in California. This audition-only group is known for its high-level performances, featuring specially designed sets, top-tier choreography, and intricate vocal arrangements. Members of Sound FX commit to daily classes and additional weekly rehearsals to maintain their competitive edge.
Over the years, Sound FX has achieved significant accolades. In 2024, they secured first place at both the John Burroughs Music Showcase and the Oceanside Sound-Off!, earning awards for Musicianship, Showmanship, Best Choreography, Best Tech Crew, and Best Soloists.
The choir's success is bolstered by a dedicated creative team, including choreographers April James, Heather Hoppus, and Cara Jennings, as well as arranger Josh Greene. Their combined expertise contributes to the unique and memorable performances that define Sound FX.
I totally agree Mr. Pork. Los Al is quite literally the most glorious, fantastical, whimsical experience I've layed my eyes upon within my 12 years of existence. The way they move in complete tandem and bring an unparalleled professionalism to stage is untouched, and I absolutely can't wait to see again the experience that is, ladies and gentlemen, Los Alamitos Sound FX.
I am all aboard the Zionsville hype train after they took vocals from Center Grove, making it only the second vocal caption that Center Grove has dropped since the pandemic. Los Al is an easy lock for choreo, and I see the top two swinging either way depending on the circumstance.
After watching Carmel and Zionsville in person and Los Al on video, I’ll just throw in some perhaps slightly controversial predictions:
GC: Carmel “Ambassadors” (BV)
1ru: Zionsville “Royalaires” (BB)
2ru: Los Alamitos “Sound FX” (BC)
3ru: Petal "Soundsations"
4ru: Auburn "Varsity Singers"
5ru: Daniel Hand “VIBE”
After Zionsville took vocals from a historically strong Center Grove this weekend, and Carmel taking vocals from FC who has taken vocals from Zionsville twice this season, I have quite a bit of confidence in these predictions. Obviously, Los Al will always bring the heat, but for some reason this season I think Indy will come on top this year.
Predictions!
GC: Los Alamitos "Sound Fx" BC
1st: Carmel "Ambassadors" BV
2nd: Zionsville "Royalaires" BB
3rd: Petal "Soundsations"
4th: Daniel Hand "VIBE"
5th: Olentangy "Keynotes"
If anyone has anything to share let me know!
Can anyone tell me which groups are eligible for best band at Nationals this year, and if they award a best band overall or one for each division? It's my understanding not all schools use a student band?
Only student bands are eligible. That for sure knocks out Los Alamitos, who hires professionals, and Auburn, who uses Auburn University kids. All schools are judged, but the points for best band are not applied to the show choir placements. Can’t speak to any other group as I’m not as familiar with their programs.
Petal I think hires professionals, but I honestly don’t know. They do have a renowned band program, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it was students.
That’s surprising. Carmel has the top band program in the country. Not sure how many of those kids are also in choir, WGI, or indoor percussion. Their high school band practically is a professional ensemble.
GC: Los Alamitos Sound FX (BC)
1RU: Carmel Ambassadors (BV)
2RU: Petal Soundsations
3RU: Zionsville Royalaires (BB)
4RU: Daniel Hand VIBE
5RU: Auburn Varsity Singers