‘Ever-evolving music project’ in PH in September

PMJ

“Today’s hits, yesterday.”

This catchphrase succinctly encapsulates the vision of the musical collective Postmodern Jukebox (PMJ), whose old-school takes on contemporary hits helped turn it into one of the most popular acts on YouTube.

Founded by arranger-pianist Scott Bradlee, PMJ weaves its magic by taking a pop song and making it sound like a period classic by reworking its structure and swathing it with the sounds of such musical genres as swing, jazz, doo-wop and ragtime.

“We want [fans] to escape reality and join us for the most sensational 1920s party this side of ‘The Great Gatsby,’” Scott said. “We want them to experience what it was like to be at the New Years’ Eve show [Frank] Sinatra would have hosted in the 1940s … [and] feel the excitement of hearing the greats of Motown.”

The vocalists and musicians— which change with each video—perform donning retro costumes in sets that at times resemble a cabaret, a diner or a glitzy dance floor. So far, more than 50 musicians and 50 singers have lent their talents for this ever-evolving music project.

Since its first upload—a cover of Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ “Thift Shop”—PMJ has amassed one billion views on YouTube.

Mounted by Midas Promotions, PMJ’s show at the Kia Theatre is set on Sept. 14. (Tickets on sale starting June 15; call 9115555.)—ALLAN POLICARPIO