Every October at the University of South Carolina, a familiar tune floats across the Russell House patio.

All three USC a cappella teams – The Carolina Gents, Cockapella, and the Cocktails – come together for a “Pitch Perfect”-style rivalry.

Or maybe not quite.

“Everybody just assumes it’s like Pitch Perfect,” said Cocktails President Fia Cardoso.

“It’s definitely not a rivalry,” added Carolina Gents President Ryan Cataldo, laughing.

Cockapella President Mackenzie DePinto said all three teams even planned a post-show gathering.

The night started with separate performances from each team, as a few friends and family gathered around. By the end, all three groups took the stage for USC’s very own riff-off.

The crowd had nearly doubled in size by the time the main event began.

Olin Jenkins, who has followed the Cocktails for 12 years, said it was the first time he’s ever seen all three groups perform together.

“I loved it and I laughed at the same time,” Jenkins said about the riff-off.

So maybe the rivalry isn’t just like the movies – maybe it’s better.