PTX, Vol. II cover

PTX, Vol. II

Pentatonix · 2013

27 min · 8 tracks · a cappella

Dynamic vocal harmonies and inventive arrangements transform popular tracks into fresh a cappella experiences.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Can’t Hold Us Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Daft Punk — This track stands out for its intricate arrangement and creative mashup of multiple Daft Punk hits, demonstrating Pentatonix's ability to blend genres seamlessly.
  • →
    Love Again — The emotional depth of this original composition highlights the group's lyrical prowess and showcases their vocal range and harmonization skills.
  • →
    Hey Momma / Hit the Road Jack — This track cleverly juxtaposes two distinct songs, allowing the group to display their rhythmic precision and playful energy while honoring classic influences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Pentatonix's inventive arrangements and strong vocal execution create a standout a cappella experience.

What we noticed

  • The album features intricate vocal arrangements where each member contributes distinct harmonies, creating a rich texture throughout.
  • Several tracks incorporate rhythmic vocal percussion, enhancing the dynamic feel and driving the songs forward.
  • The medley of Daft Punk songs showcases seamless transitions between different melodies and styles, highlighting the group's versatility.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • short energetic listening bursts
  • sing-along moments with friends
  • playful reinterpretations of favorites
  • vibrant harmonies that uplift
  • front-loaded excitement and engagement

Maybe skip if you

  • slow, introspective listening experiences
  • preference for longer albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album solidified their fame post-'The Sing-Off' and expanded their audience.
Themes
vocal innovation· pop mashups· emotional harmonies
Career context
PTX, Vol. II marks Pentatonix's second studio album, arriving two years after their self-titled debut. At this point, the group had gained significant fame from their win on 'The Sing-Off' and were solidifying their presence in the music industry as leading innovators in a cappella.
Stylistic neighbors
Home Free· Straight No Chaser· Naturally 7

Tracklist

  • 1 Can’t Hold Us Start here 3:18
  • 2 Natural Disaster 3:30
  • 3 Love Again 3:18
  • 4 Valentine 2:37
  • 5 Hey Momma / Hit the Road Jack 3:01
  • 6 I Need Your Love 2:52
  • 7 Run to You 4:25
  • 8 Daft Punk 4:08

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata