November 3, 2007 Part II

Now then, a couple of points. Saturday night, Class Act's background vocals were stronger than I have ever heard them. The sound was clean and full. Having said that, when Tom Paine stepped up to the mic with Dave and Buddy the entire dynamic changed. Things simply went from great to awesome. (is that working for you?)

Tom's voice was always a distinctive part of The Magnificent Men's harmonies just as his sax playing anchored the horn sound. Saturday night was like 1967 was last week. Dave, Buddy and Tom blended as always. It was truly a thrill to see the guys together one more time. Tom, if you're reading this, here's a hint................BE THERE NEXT YEAR!

Terry Crousore and I go back almost 45 years. I first met him when he played an after prom party at my house. Saturday night was a special time as he took the stage with The Mag Men for the first time since 1969.
Somehow, looking to Bob Angelucci's right and seeing Terry there just made things "right".

Bill Richter's playing was icing on the cake. I can understand and accept all the reasons Bill stopped performing but he is such a talented keyboard player and I've missed hearing him.

Remember when I started this and said eight musicians? Well, there is one man who has been missing and I will pay tribute to him. Tom Hoover is the reason I have been blessed with knowing all these people. We met when we were 12 years old and while the years and the entire continent have seperated us, he remains a friend. Tom was the original keyboard player for The Magnificent Men. He played on the first album and left right before things really started taking off for the group. Hopefully, he can find his way to next November's show. Things would then be "full circle".

Okay, I'm done "gushing". As the music from the concert becomes available we'll get it into rotation. As for next year, I'll let y'all know when tickets become available.