Starving Artists celebrated their 10th anniversary Saturday night with an energetic showcase of new and old songs. A sizeable contingent of Starving Artists' alumni came back for the show, which took place in Levin Ballroom.The group opened with Tears for Fears' "Everybody Wants to Rule the World," arranged by Josh Geyer '05. While soloist Nick Barasch's '06 performance was enjoyable, the number was lacking in energy overall. I would have encouraged them to start with one of their faster-paced arrangements, such as their second song, Something Corporate's "I Woke Up in a Car." Soloist Dan Hirschhorn '07 sounded the best he has all year as his solo complemented the group's well-blended background vocals.

The group's next number, Frou Frou's "Holding Out for a Hero," sounded fairly choppy and was also lacking in energy. Barasch's arrangement was innovative, but soloist Rebecca Reiman's '07 microphone was too quiet, tainting the number's overall dynamic. Starving Artists then took a break from singing to provide some comic relief. The group parodied their own disorganization in an adorably cheesy but effective attempt to involve the audience into their fun.

Next up was one of the groups' more energetic pieces, Maroon 5's "Harder to Breathe," featuring Jennie El-Far '07 as the soloist. Although the arrangement, also by Barasch, was a little awkward, the dynamic of the group as a whole was excellent. While, it is worth noting that the group has performed this number more impressively at previous performances this year. Microphone problems-a result of the group's decision to record the show-continued as Jennie's cool, deep voice was barely heard.

Just as the excitement was beginning to die down, Starving Artists stepped it up with Whitney Houston's "Saving All My Love for You." Soloist Julie Albert's '08 voice was simply stunning and, luckily, vocally powerful enough to overcome the show's microphone problems. Starving Artists concluded the first act with a favorite, "When I am King," by Great Big Sea. Soloist Wes Chisholm '08 charmed the audience as usual with his strong voice and charisma.

After a wardrobe change from their cute, 1995-inspired clothes, the group returned to the stage glamorously dressed for Aretha Franklin's "Chain of Fools." Sung by soloist Kate Perch '05, it was barely audible and lacked the energy needed to impress.

Less impressive arrangements of Fleetwood Mac's "The Chain" and Jamie Cullum's "All At Sea" followed. Although the soloists were impressive, the overall dynamic of the group became a little dull.

The show picked up with Logan Jerger's '07 fantastic solo in Matchbox 20's "Bright Lights" and later, an excellent finale: a collaboration with the group's alumni. Matt Cohen '03 drew tears from much of the group with his solo in Journey's "Don't Stop Believing." With several alums helping out, the energy and overall sound of this number were phenomenal, bringing the show to a memorable close.

Editors' note: Dan Hirschhorn '07 is the Sports Editor of the Justice.