From:

Hello!

Quick rundown of last night's concert. In a word..WONDERFUL!!

Phil was very tired (so what's new with the traveler?) He had only gotten 4 hours of sleep after the show in Idaho the night before. (I think he said Idaho). He did about an hour and 10 minutes solo, stopping briefly for a man from COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL to come on and talk about sponsoring children in third world countries. You never would have know he was tired. His set was wonderful, and he was in a funny mood, doing many funny things during his songs. The sound system was wonderful and Phil's voice and guitar (the Olson) sounded clear as a bell!!!

There was a (not so) brief intermission, and Phil came back out with Daniel and John. The guys did several songs including a fantastic version of OUR TOWERS. This was very dramatic, and included GOD BLESS AMERICA. What a fine song it is! Daniel did some amazing vocals in NOTHING BUT THE BLOOD and PRESENCE OF THE LORD. The guys did JOHN THE REVELATOR (with a very hot jam). There were several standing ovations throughout the evening.

I know I am forgetting others, but CAN YOU SEE ME was a real gem last night. It was a long version incorporating segments of the LIVE AT CARNEGIE HALL version and then some.

It is always special to see list people. Cathy Petelin and her husband Joe were there. Bill Amey and his wife (I forget her name, but I promise never to do it again!) were there. My friend of 35 years "Roman" Amon was there with his wife Julie and son Colson. I know I am forgetting someone..At 48 I have an excuse!. I had a great time visiting with my dear old friend Ted Karem over pancakes at Perkins. (Dessert? are you kidding? After all that food?) Folks, Ted is such a wealth of information when it comes to guitars. This man is a tech's tech! He is so humble and modest about his gifts in this area! I heard him really play some guitar, and I am floored at what a fine player he is. He's got licks that give you chills, and if it weren't for his nervousness jamming with John Sferra at sound check, I would have heard more.. We are fortunate to have such talent on our list!! It was also great to see his son and wife again, and to meet his brother and sister.

As with all Youngstown shows, Phil's family was out in force. After 30 years of shows, these local gigs are like family reunions, and you make friends after all that time.

Sorry I have gone on so long. It was a very laid back and enjoyable day. I am such a lucky guy..and it even gets better today. Since I neglected my wife all day yesterday, I planned on spending most of today with her. She (man am I lucky) says "No, it's STEELER SUNDAY. You have to watch the game." WHOOOO HOOOOO !!!!! Does it get any better on the weekend? (ONLY IF THEY WIN!)

I almost forgot!!! GLASS HARP did a beautiful tribute to GEORGE HARRISON. They did a fantastic version of HERE COMES THE SUN. It was so good!! (This band has a reputation of never practicing much, but examples like this convince me that they would be phenomenal if they had the time to do active rehearsals. This band (in my opinion) has NEVER come close to their potential!!) The harmonies were chilling!! Any comments from those in attendance?

Have a good day!!!

Neal

Page Last Updated: December 4, 2001