Webster defines a cappella as “without instrumental accompaniment.”

I always picture three or four guys standing on a street corner singing — one of them always has that falsetto voice like so many groups of the ’50s and ’60s.

The vocal group “InPulse,” coming to Vidalia Thursday, will change the way you think about a cappella bands, because they pride themselves on being a vocal band instead of just another a cappella group.

In the first place, you’ll find yourself wondering where all those bass and percussion sounds are coming from. No drums, no back-up band, just four incredibly talented individuals with a powerful harmonic blend and driving rhythm.

The next thing you’ll notice is that you simply won’t be able to sit still during this performance. Toe-tapping and knee-slapping are the norm for an InPulse audience.

Finally, you’ll simply be amazed at the beauty and versatility of these voices. The concert will feature stunning solos, inventive arrangements of familiar songs and wonderfully written original compositions.

Gabe Koxlien is a tenor of pure tone and vocal control, especially in the falsetto register.

Matt McDonald, the baritone, is an award-winning soloist on his own, with a three-octave range.

Steve Howe is a vocal percussionist, able to turn his body into a rock and roll drum kit, DJ scratch table, or electronic percussion hard drive in almost the same instant. He’s also another multiple-award winning artist.

Hershel Webster, the bass, is the group’s newest member, taking the place of Marcus Hanson, who became manager of the group. Hershel had already been with a top a cappella group for three years before joining InPulse.

Together they create an exciting, powerful performance the recordings of which have won them a nomination for Album of the Year by the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America. They’ve also won awards for Best Original Song, Best Soloist (Matt), and Runner-Up for the 2007 Band of the Year by Campus Activities Magazine.

This band is in great demand all across the U.S. and Europe, so it is quite an honor to say that InPulse will be in Vidalia at 7 p.m. Thursday, at the Concordia Bank Lobby. The concert will be hosted by the Concordia Parish Library System.

And it’s absolutely free of charge, thanks to the co-sponsors who make great cultural events such as this one possible: Concordia Bank, Comfort Suites Riverfront, Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism and the Louisiana State Arts Council.

Come and enjoy this night of sensational music, an experience you won’t forget for a long, long time.

Sam Jones is a supporter of the Concordia Parish Library and the arts.