Who is best DCA corps ever?
TWASIK77
This is a topic that everyone likes to debate, but no one ever has any
facts.
If you have a choice for the best Senior corps of all time - tell us who
it is.
Give scores, season records, caption trophies, anything who want.
If you want to say that Corp X from a particular year was the best, then
back it up.
Or that Corps Y had the best of a particular caption, that's fine too.
Have fun with this topic, don't get too nasty, and try to avoid any
"Rah-rah, watch next year" stuff.
My votes:
Best Brass: 1980 Buccaneers
( one of the first sweet sounding senior horn lines)
Best Perc: 1993 Empire Statesmen
(loaded with talent, musical, aggressive, and entertaining).
Best Guard: 1976 Rhode Island Matadors (now days, if one rifles flies 50
feet in the air, the crowd goes nuts. These guys had them flying all over
the place).
Best Single Season Corps : ( God, it hurts to say this ): 1995 Cabs
(undefeated, highest score of all time, left no doubt at finals).
Best Soloist: John Grass 1975 Skyliners
(held the audience in the palm of his hand, stroked it, kissed it, then
smashed the entire stadium like a grape).
Best Canadian corps of all time : Canadian Regiment 1990- 1996
Don't try to "flame" me with obscure technique comments like "C'mon they
had a problem with double inverted cheese flamma doodles," because I'll
have no idea what you're talking about.
These are just my opinions. Let's hear yours!
Tom Allen
Empire (lead soprano and visual staff 89-96)
Susan Zellea
Tom,
Why were you choking over admitting the Cabs were the best in'95? They
were and always continue to be a DCA favorite, rarely, if ever
disappointing their fans.
Susan Zellea/Cabs Booster Staff
Susan Zellea
WHITE 100
I know that I will get bashed for this one.... the Bushwackers??!!!
Here is why.
Everytime I see Bush' their overall execution seems to be almost
flawless. Many other corps slop through their shows having many mambers
who cannot march a simple clean roll step. OK, OK, I know that even
Bush has a few of those, BUT far less than the others. Their surge of
Championships in the late 80's early 90's just about equate that of the
Cadets' dynasty of the last decade and a half. Their musical
complexities are second to none AND (in my own opinion) the vote always
will go to a corps that challenges not only the members but even the
audience members to expand and stretch their imaginations and musical
depth. Big Example: 1995 season was probably the most expansive and
esoteric show in senior corps history. That is a good thing. In case
anyone reading this does not remember that show, I think it was called
"A Symphony for Drum Corps" and used music of Hindemuth and Bernstein.
Bush will always get a standing O from me because they are not likely to
be the corps that comes up with variation 622 of the same old boring
stuff we've been seeing in the sometimes stale senior corps repetoires.
Just a little Recap:
1 best execution
2 highest complexity
3 most likely to challenge not only members bodies, but, more
importantly --- their minds.
THE CHOICE IS OBVIOUS!!!!
I now welcome all the insane unfounded criticism...
Don't hold back!!!!
The Vigeant Family
TWASIK77 <twas...@aol.com> wrote in article
<19970329152...@ladder01.news.aol.com>...
>
> This is a topic that everyone likes to debate, but no one ever has any
> facts.
> If you have a choice for the best Senior corps of all time - tell us who
> it is.
> OK, I'll play along. It is a doofus way to spend time on the computer.
However, I happen to agree with you on your first toe mentions, so I'm
hooked.
> My votes:
>
> Best Brass: 1980 Buccaneers
> ( one of the first sweet sounding senior horn lines)
> I agree. One of the finest shows of all time. Packed with emotion and
great brass.
> Best Perc: 1993 Empire Statesmen
> (loaded with talent, musical, aggressive, and entertaining).
>
I also agree. who would have guessed it? Their horns were also excellent
that year.
> Best Guard: 1976 Rhode Island Matadors (now days, if one rifles flies 50
> feet in the air, the crowd goes nuts. These guys had them flying all
over
> the place).
>
> Best Single Season Corps : ( God, it hurts to say this ): 1995 Cabs
> (undefeated, highest score of all time, left no doubt at finals).
>
They have had several excellent years, also undefeated, Like 1971, and
1962-63 or so. They were also excellent in 1957-58.
> Best Soloist: John Grass 1975 Skyliners
> (held the audience in the palm of his hand, stroked it, kissed it, then
> smashed the entire stadium like a grape).
>
> Best Canadian corps of all time : Canadian Regiment 1990- 1996
>
Although this is seniors and DCA era, One would have to mention one of
the most fantastic show corps of all time. Scout House.
Falcon6312
Best Brass- 1980 Reading
Best Percussion- 1996 Westshoremen
Best Guard-1987 Matadors & 1990 Bushwackers
Best Soloist- Mellophone soloist Crusaders 1995 & Mike De Maio, any year
Best Canadian- Metropolitans 1994
Best Ever Show- Bushwackers 1993/1995
Henry G. Grilk
> Best Single Season Corps : ( God, it hurts to say this ): 1995 Cabs
> (undefeated, highest score of all time, left no doubt at finals).
>
> Tom Allen
> Empire (lead soprano and visual staff 89-96)
>
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thanks, Tom, for your "grudging" acknowledgment that the '95 Cabs were the
best of all time. I'm proud to have been a member of that Corp, and it was
a fantastic season. There was something..... SPECIAL! .......about that
particular group of people - an outstanding worth ethic, true teamwork and
great spirit, and a real commitment to be the absolute best we could be....
and we "peaked" that night in Scranton.
I would have to point out, however, that the '95 horn line was also the
"best ever" with a score of only 0.2 less than perfection in all brass
captions added together. Can't do much better than that! It was all due
to one individual, Mike Longdo. He did an outstanding job all year with
his teaching, interpretation, talent, dedication, and friendship.
Yes, there were other great Corp, and many many have had their "high
points" - I respect them all - I know how hard they've worked too. But the
'95 Cabs were on a new higher level - making ripples in the FORCE!
Good luck this year.
Hank ("Homer") - Cabs Baritone, '91-'96
Larry Pawlowski
> > My votes:
> >
> > Best Brass: 1980 Buccaneers
> > ( one of the first sweet sounding senior horn lines)
Even though I agree with this vote, I would have to pick the corps that
Johnny Grass played with in '75 (Sky) or Hawthorne in either '74 or '76.
> > Best Perc: 1993 Empire Statesmen
> > (loaded with talent, musical, aggressive, and entertaining).
I think:
Best percussion: Bushwackers '86-92 (pick one...huh!)
> > Best Guard: 1976 Rhode Island Matadors
I agree here also.
> > Best Single Season Corps : ( God, it hurts to say this ): 1995 Cabs
> > (undefeated, highest score of all time, left no doubt at finals).
> >
I think:
Best Single Season Corps: it's hard to mix decades, so:
70's: a tie between 75 Sky or 76 Hawthorne
80's: 1980 Bucs (to agree with earlier)
90's: 93 Bush
> > Best Soloist: John Grass 1975 Skyliners
> > (held the audience in the palm of his hand, stroked it, kissed it, then
> > smashed the entire stadium like a grape).
TOTALLY AGREE! You are so right!
I can definitely say that there have been a lot of good things happening
in DCA through the years. It is really hard to compare stuff that
happened over three decades, because corps styles and judging have
evolved. But, good, friendly competition is healthy for corps!
Good luck to everyone in 97!
Larry (D)Kyler Pawlowski
Cavaliers '68-76, staff '77-82
Phantom Regiment staff '83-84
Bushwackers '94, staff '95-'96 seasons, and one month...huh! What
the...!
Moulton
>Best Canadian corps of all time : Canadian Regiment 1990- 1996
Interesting...Why the separate grouping for canadian corps? Hhhmmmm... No
more comments from me...I'd get in trouble...
Erin
Stephen Ford
These things are to RAMD what Jerry Springer is to information, but I'll
bite:
Best overall corps 1978 Sunrisers. Totally driven by their own desire for
excellence, the chance to prove that 1977 was no fluke, and excellent
competition from Cabs and Skyliners, their finals show still stands as my
benchmark for Sr. corps excellence.
Best percussion: 1982 Sunrisers. The end of an era for a line that had
remained essentially unchanged for 6 years.
Wayne
Brian H. Grilk
This is so hard not to be biased, but here goes:
Best Soloist: "Dirty Eddie" (Sorry if I got the name wrong)
Mellophonist from Skyliners, any year he marched. (Didn't he get best
soloist in 1990?)
Most Favorite Show (outside my own corps - ha!): 1976 Sunrisers - Old
Man River was awesome! Screech was, well, Screech!
Best Percussion: 1990 Westshoremen - too cool.....
Most original show: 1994 Bushwackers Nightmare Before Christmas
Best single season: 1995 Hawthorne Caballeros - undefeated, highest
score at finals 97.7
Best corps ever: 1995 Cabs - 97.7 at finals
Best colorguard ever: This is hard, but I'm gonna have to say a three
way tie (!) between '91 Skyliners (they got absolutely no credit for it
that year) and '92 Buschwackers, and '95 Cabs.
Best Brass: '96 Cabs (check out the stats for the season, then listen
to the CD)
The Caballeros were voted the best corps of the '70s and '80s by DCA
fans, and in 1989 the Cabs were voted the favorite Senior corps of all
time by the fans of DCA, so I guess my opinion really doesn't matter on
that one!
Just for the record: The Caballeros have won 15 National Titles
8 DCA World Championships, 5 undefeated seasons (1961, 1973, 1984, 1985,
1995) The Longest Consecutive Championship winning streak (1972, 1973,
1974) The Caballeros have also the longest "runner up" streak from 1977
to 1980.
The 1976 Caballeros are the only senior corps to ever make a "clean
sweep" of captions at the DCA World Championships, and also hold the
record in the same year for the largest spread between first and second
at Championships (6 points)
The Cabs have also placed in the top 3 at DCA's 25 times in 31
appearances.
The Caballeros hold countless other records.............
Best M&M: '95 Caballeros, won marching in finals by over a point
'92 Bushwackers
Anyway, there's my opinions, with supporting evidence. Yes, ofcourse
I'm biased, but one of the reasons I joined the Cabs 10 years ago is
because they are the best, and I'm very proud to be a member.
Hey, I voted for some other corps, too!!!!!!ha
Good Luck to everyone!
Brian
Wink
TWASIK77 wrote:
>
> This is a topic that everyone likes to debate, but no one ever has any
> facts.
> If you have a choice for the best Senior corps of all time - tell us who
> it is.
>
>
> If you want to say that Corp X from a particular year was the best, then
> back it up.
>
> Or that Corps Y had the best of a particular caption, that's fine too.
>
> Have fun with this topic, don't get too nasty, and try to avoid any
> "Rah-rah, watch next year" stuff.
>
>
> Best Brass: 1980 Buccaneers
> ( one of the first sweet sounding senior horn lines)
>
> (loaded with talent, musical, aggressive, and entertaining).
>
> feet in the air, the crowd goes nuts. These guys had them flying all over
> the place).
>
> (undefeated, highest score of all time, left no doubt at finals).
>
> (held the audience in the palm of his hand, stroked it, kissed it, then
> smashed the entire stadium like a grape).
>
>
> had a problem with double inverted cheese flamma doodles," because I'll
> have no idea what you're talking about.
> These are just my opinions. Let's hear yours!
>
> Empire (lead soprano and visual staff 89-96)
Well Tom, those are certainly memorable corps but frankly I don't feel
that any of them can hold candle (or a cool one) to the incredible
Blousemen run of the mid-eighties! Some of you might not be familiar
with that mystical corps from Brigadoon (near Blouseburg) Pa. They are
the corps that with 300 horns, 60 percussion and 100 in the guard won
the DCA prelims by 10 points and decided to get back on their plane and
go home without bothering with the finals! What a fine corps! The
corps is presently practicing in an unknown location for a possible
appearance this year somewhere. You can never tell where they will show
up and if they will actually go on that night but it could happen! If
you're at a DCA show this year look around for the Blousemen Courtesy
Cruiser in the parking lot, stop by and share your rememberance of the
corps!
Ratings of other performances:
Best Hornline: 1995 Cabs (real tough choice)
Best Drumline: Westshore, a lot of years...
Best Guard: 1994 Empire
Best Soloist: Ken Peterson Geneva Appleknockers (in the early years of
drum corps playing a valve/rotor horn
Best Corps for all time: Whether you like it or not, The Cabs own this
game!
Best single performance: 1991 Empire and Bush the year they came from
third to first at finals.
That's it!
Hope to see everybody at the shows this year!
Gary Winkelman
Director of Refreshments, Blousemen
Thomas Tufaro
I agree that the members should be challenged, Mr White, but basing an
entire show on the complexity of the music is truly inane. Although DC
is an artistic endeavor, the entire focus of the show should not
entirely revolve around the members, but the people who assist in paying
the bills: The fans.
I don't understand why you are so afraid of saying that you are speaking
of the Caballeros. You bash and bash, but never put a face on the corps
you flame. However, your ineptitude of the language allows you no such
veil enough to hide your dislike for the corps.
The simple fact of the matter is that although the Cabs have not won
every year in the past ten years or so, but have been consistently in
the top three since 1989.
They may play the same thing (so to speak) over and over again (if you
listened, you would realize that we don't) but we are good. I don't
plan to bash any other corps for what they do, but you cannot deny the
Caballeros' greatness for simply doing what they do so well.
I welcome yours or any other flames from those that try to contest
this...so fire away.
Thomas Tufaro
Caballeros
Contraline 90,91,94
Bassline 95-96
P.S. I won't reply unless you post your little hate mail to the
newsgroup so everyone can see how smart you are.
Thomas Tufaro
It still doesn't matter because all the Cabs do is RUMP RUMP RUMP ;)
Tom Tufaro
winslow4ever
T.A.- don't be a moron! everyone knows that Blousemen were the
best ever. Why do you think they were banned from competition.
brent
"deep in the heart of Texas"
Suncentral
Best Hornline: 1980 Reading
Best drumline: 1983 Sunrisers (only one tick between Prelims and finals)
Best color Guard: undecided
Best Soloist: John Grass or Georgie Richardson, pick a year
Best Single Season: 1975 Skyliners, 1980 Buccaneers, 1989 Sunrisers
Corps of the 1970's: Hawthorne
Corps of the 1980's: Sunrisers
Corps of the 1990's: undecided, still in them
Patty Cicchino, 1990 - ?? Sunrisers
Martin Roche, 1974 - ?? Sunrisers
RGIL67
well - this is tough ----I'll try not to be biased:
My experience only begins in 1985 - so................
best DCA corps ever - in no special order: (except my bias)
Sunrisers -1988, 1989
Bushwackers - 1993?(sunday in the park w/george), 1992 ( 2nd all original
show)
Caballeros - 1995, 1996 (mostly due to the horns, guad was great in 95)
drums - Bush late 80's early 90's
guard - Sun (especially late 80's and of course 96 - world champs!)
horns - Sun 88 - 89 (87)
Bush - 92 - 93
Cabs - 95-96
NO FLAMES PLEASE - just my humble 2 Cents!
THANKS!
Rich
Henry G. Grilk
> I know that I will get bashed for this one.... the Bushwackers??!!!
>
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hey WHITE (or whatever your name is), what kind of strange vegetation are
you smoking?
Yea, Bush had a few good years and has remained in the tip tier for a
decade - but compared to the Caballeros, the Skyliners, and several other
Corp their overall ranking over the years certainly hasn't been in the
"head-and-sholders-above-all-other-corp" category.
Personally I can remember numerous Bush shows which - I'll admit - were
technically challenging and performed very well - that left the audience
totally confused, resulting in only polite applause.
I like Bush. I also like Empire, Westshore, Hercs, Sky, Sun, & all the
other Sr. Corp, and I genuinely hope they all achieve great things - good,
close competition brings out the best of all Corp.
But comparing Bush - over the long haul - to the Cabs, is like comparing
the Florida Marlins to the New York Yankees - yea, Florida may have had a
couple good years, but the Yankees (regardless of what you think of them)
area DYNASTY! The Caballeros are a DYNASTY!
Brian H. Grilk
Alexander J. Nielsen
please keep in mind that bush is only 15 years old, not 50 like some of
the oldtimers. you have to look at what we've done in that time period.
keeping with your baseball analogy, we're batting .400 at championships!
hoping to make it .438...
---------------------------------------------
Alexander J. Nielsen
Bushwacker Bass Line 92,93-97
email: al...@bigberthas.com
---------------------------------------------
On 31 Mar 1997, Henry G. Grilk
wrote:
>
> Hey WHITE (or whatever your name is), what kind of strange vegetation are
> you smoking?
>
AJLisko
I've seen some interesting answers to this question and I'll
try to bring my thoughts in to perspective.
Overall, since DCA's inception in 1964, I would have to deem
the following corps as being the Best Ever:
NY Skyliners 71-72 Won 22 shows in a row and the 71DCA
Championship. The '72 corps broke new
ground in drill concept with Bobby
Hoffman
and has been acknowledged by many as
The Best Ever. A truly legendary
show.
Hawthorne Cabs 95 Undefeated, undaunted and fearless. They
hit on all cylinders all year long.
Even their
legenday 61-62 corps had to make way
for this Caballero titan.
Reading Bucs 79-80 Balance in Blue at its finest. A unique
corps that was excellent in all
categories.
DCA Champs both years.
CT Hurricanes 67 Almost undefeated. Dream and DCA champs.
Again, drums, horns and M&M all
contributed
to a magnificent season.
Sunrisers 83 Another example of a corps that was
seemingly invincible. The total
package
was sold every time I saw them.
Andy Lisko
St. Raphael's/Bpt. PAL 58-68
NY Skyliners 69-81
David P. Linton Jr.
Henry, I won't disagree with alot of the points that you have made, but
look at the books, we have had more than a few good years. Yeah, we don't
have the history to base it on, but who looks at VFW/American Legion
anymore? It's not hard to win this one, when you're the only competitor.
NOTE*** I am agreeing with you, just adding a little more for clarity
sake.
On 31 Mar 1997, Henry G. Grilk wrote:
>
> > I know that I will get bashed for this one.... the Bushwackers??!!!
> >
> ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
>
> Hey WHITE (or whatever your name is), what kind of strange vegetation are
> you smoking?
>
> Yea, Bush had a few good years and has remained in the tip tier for a
> decade - but compared to the Caballeros, the Skyliners, and several other
> Corp their overall ranking over the years certainly hasn't been in the
> "head-and-sholders-above-all-other-corp" category.
>
> Personally I can remember numerous Bush shows which - I'll admit - were
> technically challenging and performed very well - that left the audience
> totally confused, resulting in only polite applause.
>
> I like Bush. I also like Empire, Westshore, Hercs, Sky, Sun, & all the
> other Sr. Corp, and I genuinely hope they all achieve great things - good,
> close competition brings out the best of all Corp.
>
Sunstruck
SQU...@prodigy.com (Stephen Ford) writes: > These things are to RAMD what Jerry Springer is to information, but I'll
I think you mean 83 for the drumline - that was our undefeated in all captions line
Larry Visconti
Sunrisers 72-?
Bud McCormick
Lets break it down this way:
BEST DCA CORPS
Horn line - 1971, 72 Skyliners
1980, 81 Reading Buccaneers
1995 Caballeros
TOP CHOICE - Buccaneers
Drum line - Bushwackers mid 1980's
Empire/Westshoremen/Bushwackers - mid 1990's
Skyliners - early 1970's
TOP CHOICE - Bushwackers
Marching - 1969 Hurricanes
1970's Caballeros/Diplomats
1980's Sunrisers/Bush/Cabs
TOP CHOICE- Caballeros
Color Guard - MANY OUTSTANDING YEARS
Dynamiques, Sunrisers, Hurricanes, Matadors
Top Choice - MATADORS
OVERALL MOST OUTSTANDING CORPS WITH PROGRAM
Caballeros early 1970's
Buccaneers late 1970's early 80's
Sunrisers late 1980's
Bushwackers early 1990's
LATE 1990's WE WILL HAVE TO SEE..Just an opinion!!!!
WHITE 100
As for your remark about what I'm smoking, I'll ignore it because I dont
usually make a habit of insulting anyone who is involved in such a
fantastic activity as drum corps.
As for Bush, I was not referring to "the long haul". In my opion, Bush
did create a dynasty. It was awfully difficult for any other corp to
win during those years. The same goes for the years that the Blue
Devils and Santa Clara created their dynasty. A dynasty is not a period
of time in which no other corps can achieve a title or even come out on
top. I really thoroughly enjoy the Caballeros, BUT your last title
before 1995 was WAY BACK in the mid 80's. That's far from a dynasty.
You can't honestly sit in front of your computer and say that Bush "had
some difficult shows and performed them well". That is a complete
understatement. That's almost like saying the Cadets of Bergen County
"had some difficult shows and performed them well". No, I'm not
comparing Bush to the Cadets, but their recent history is quite similar.
I got a response telling me that Bush is really the only corps that
changes their show completely from year to year. The music you play may
be hard, but it gets easy after you play it for several years in a row.
Bush moves, acts, and sounds like a DCI corp. That's the biggest form
of flattery you can give to a senior corps.
As for the polite applause, I've been to countless shows where Bush had
the crowd jumpin'. REMEMBER, the most crowd pleasing corps is not
always the cleanest, best executed show. Often times its a corps that
places 2nd or 3rd.
Don't get me wrong, I will always be a fan of the Caballeros. The Cabs
are a fantastis corps. This question was who is the best DCA corps
ever? That question, in no way, impies "the long haul". The best corp
ever could in fact be one that only won 1 title, but did it in such a
way that was out of the ordinary or had the highest score.
Allow corps such as Bush the right to be creative and challenging. They
have achieved innovative heights in DCA that have only been duplicated
in DCI!
By the way, the way that Sky has been playing lately (and has always
played) they've put themselves out of contention for this title!
As I said before, I am a Cabs fan. I love seeing you guys. I will be
out their in the stands rooting for the "rumps" that beat in all true
DCA fan's hearts. And also, opinions and debates like this are exactly
what keep interest in this great activity. Good Luck in 97!!!
PS I don't smoke.
WHITE 100
Thomas Tufaro wrote:
>
> I agree that the members should be challenged, Mr White, but basing an
> entire show on the complexity of the music is truly inane. Although DC
> is an artistic endeavor, the entire focus of the show should not
> entirely revolve around the members, but the people who assist in paying
> the bills: The fans.
>
> I don't understand why you are so afraid of saying that you are speaking
> of the Caballeros. You bash and bash, but never put a face on the corps
> you flame. However, your ineptitude of the language allows you no such
> veil enough to hide your dislike for the corps.
>
> The simple fact of the matter is that although the Cabs have not won
> every year in the past ten years or so, but have been consistently in
> the top three since 1989.
>
> They may play the same thing (so to speak) over and over again (if you
> listened, you would realize that we don't) but we are good. I don't
> plan to bash any other corps for what they do, but you cannot deny the
> Caballeros' greatness for simply doing what they do so well.
>
> I welcome yours or any other flames from those that try to contest
> this...so fire away.
>
> Caballeros
> Contraline 90,91,94
> Bassline 95-96
>
> >
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! Slow down before you crucify me! Did I once
mention that I HATED the Cabs???? No. I LOVE THE CABS!!! I have been
a Cabs fan for many years and would in no way attempt to make them look
bad or say that they suck because they might repeat a song of 2 from
year to year. Your corps does not play the same thing every year! The
only holdover from year to year that I've seen seems to be the ending.
The rest is all new! Seldom to you repeat any of your first 2 or 3
songs. So, please put away your hostility and quick judgements. I am
not bashing you or any other Cabs members (or staff). AND, I did not
try to hide anything in what I was saying. I was speaking generally.
Mostly ALL of the DCA corps repeat from year to year, but they do it
differently from year to year. It's just that it is a little more
difficult to always be putting a new show out there EVERY year.
CABS: DONT' TAKE THIS TO MEAN YOU!!!!!!!!
I hope that you don't look at this and think that I'm trying to come up
with excuses for what I said. I knew that I was going to get a least 20
or more negative responses. That's why I stated that I was going to get
bashed. Just to let you know where I came from: I marched 2 seasons
with the Chieftains, and this corps is notorius for repeating things
lately (but things will hopefully change). My references were mostly
directed at corps that do the same things over and over with out any
hope of making it look better the second time around. The Cabs staff
has an incredible talent of making things look better the 5th and 6th
time around. So lift your head up high and take pride in what you do.
There are only a few Cab haters out there and I am far from being one of
them.
My favorite DCA corps just happens to be the Sunrisers! I am a Bush
fan, too. But I also like the Hurcs, Brigs, Sky, Minnesota, and so on
and so on......
If I hated a corps I would come on out and say it!!! It's done like
this: I hate the Empire Statesmen!!! That is how I would do it.
If you must know, YES I'm not a fan of the Empire Statesmen. That's
because of the attitudes I've seen from some of their members in the
past when they've placed behind you guys, Bush, or Shore. This has
nothing to do with what they play or how they play it.
My second choice for best corps would have been the Cabs anyway (and not
because I feel guilty or something). I never put a face to what I said
because I was not referring to one particular corps, I was referring to
just a minor little subltly that I've picked up on.
As for your PS, I hope you can see that I am not a "hate mailer" or a
Cab basher. I'm not. And I am posting this for everyone to see for the
simple reason that I consider myself to be very well educated and my
goal for responding to you is meant as an olive branch. What I said
should not have offended you. I can see that it did, however. If it
did get your blood boiling,...SORRY!!! It wasn't my intention. Please
don't read this with a closed opinion of me. I'm a very open minded
person and can see that you were not please with my Bush support.
Well, if you feel you need to respond, please mail to both the newsgroup
and my personal e-mail. I would like to know if you change your opinion
of me! Good Luck in your upcoming season.
Jeremy White
Drill Writer
P.S. What are you guys playing this year?
Thomas Tufaro
Mr. White...
Negative attitudes towards the Caballeros have, unfortunately, caloused
me to become defensive. Many of the Cabs, myself included, feel that
those outside of the corps proper don't appreciate the hard work and
emotion put into every show, every year. Some feel that the merit is
lost when music is played more than once in a while. Instead of playing
the same old stuff, we like to think of it as capitalizing on a good
thing. We won with the show in '95 and came damn close again in '96.
I'll be the last one to admit that Westshore did not earn their title,
and the other Cabs would concur.
I appreciate your speedy reply and clarification of this subject and
apologize for any slanted statements I made toward your character. I
have also mailed a copy of this letter to the RAMD to publicly show my
apology.
From what I know this year (for I opted not to march for employment
reasons) the Cabs are playing "La Virgen de Macarena," "En Fuego," "My
Spanish Heart" and another tune which escapes me at the moment. The
list of songs can be accessed through the website http://www.cabs.org
Again I apologize for any confusion I may have caused.
See you in the stands
Tom Tufaro
Caballeros
Contraline 90,91.94
Bassline 95-96
Andrew Veiss
Thomas, Brother,
I don't think that Mr. White meant anything callus about his Remarks.
He stated various times in his post that he enjoys what hawthorne, but,
as it happens many times on this newsgroup, somebody turned his comments
around into something negitave. I think that what happens is that when
someone comes around and says that there is a corps that is comparable
in ability, some people become defensive. I have seen it first hand.
We are all out there for the same reason and let the judges decide what
is the best this summer and let this newsgroup die.
have a nice day.
Andrew Veiss
Cabs 91, 94
Bush 95-96 Pit Tech
Sky Pit arranger 97
--
********************************************
Andrew Veiss
Why don't you go and visit my homepage at:
http://www.webspan.net/~goodvibe
Allan Murray
The Blousemen didn't have BOB DEVLIN that monster of a drummer know as the
God of Drums!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
winslow4ever <72102...@CompuServe.COM> wrote in article
<5hn13s$1hb$1...@mhadf.production.compuserve.com>...
WHITE 100
Andrew Veiss wrote:
>
> Thomas, Brother,
> I don't think that Mr. White meant anything callus about his Remarks.
> He stated various times in his post that he enjoys what hawthorne, but,
> as it happens many times on this newsgroup, somebody turned his comments
> around into something negitave. I think that what happens is that when
> someone comes around and says that there is a corps that is comparable
> in ability, some people become defensive. I have seen it first hand.
> We are all out there for the same reason and let the judges decide what
> is the best this summer and let this newsgroup die.
>
> have a nice day.
>
> Andrew Veiss
> Cabs 91, 94
> Bush 95-96 Pit Tech
> Sky Pit arranger 97
>
little concept about who's the best. Judging by the past several
seasons it could be anyone, anyhow! I never really thought about it
before I chimed in with my response. It's not really something that I
actually considered before. Enjoying all of the performances is what I
do in the stands anyway!
Sorry for the big mess I started! Whoops!!!
C-Ya in the stands!
Jeremy White
bigtoast
WHITE 100 wrote:
..
>
> Jeremy White
> Drill Writer
>
> P.S. What are you guys playing this year?
The same thing as last year.
--
Chris Bernotas
Caballeros
Arranger/Brass Caption Head
RGIL67
I have made a few mistahes in my opinions for best dca corps ever:
I had previously listed 1992 - 93 bush - although I have no problem with
these corps, I did incorrectly match the shows with the years:
please let this be my new submission as my DCA best list:
Best overall corps: (in no particular order)
88 & 89 - Sunrisers (87- honorable mention)
91 Bush - 2nd all original year
92 Bush - sweeney todd
93 Bush - Sunday in the park w/George
95 & 96 - Hawthorne Caballeros
best brass: (again , in random order)
sun - 88 & 89 (87 hon. ment.)
bush - 91 & 93
cabs - 95 & 96
drums - bush - late 80's - early 90's
guard - Sun late 80's
Sun 1996 (les mis - 1996 world champs)
Again, just my 2 cents!
Rich
Thomas Tufaro
Floyd, whoever you may be...
No one puts a gun to your head and makes you go through the "torture" of
a Caballero show. Your opinion is just that, an opinion...
Tom Tufaro
Caballeros
Contraline 90,91,94
Bassline 95-96
FloydCow wrote:
>
> Alright, I have listened to enough of this-
> I realize that I have already taken quite a bit of abuse since playing
> around on this damn computer, but I would like to try and make an
> intelligent comment on this subject since knowone else has. There is no
> possible way to compare the great Cab corps of the 60's and 70's to any
> corps of today. Likewise, there is no possible way to compare the great
> DCA corps of the past, such as Sunrisers, Bushies, or the Empire Statesmen
> to each other and say that one was better than the others. All these corps
> had different styles that required different strengths (or took advantage
> of different strengths) and competed in a completely different circuit.
> Is one corps better because it created a different crowd response than
> another, or what if an individual corps stands above the rest for
> performing an incredibly difficult show without the huge outcry of glee
> from the stands.
> Let's be fair!!! One might find it easier to state that the requirements
> of that particular period forced a corps to perform in a more spectacular
> way. Sure there are those shows that stand out from the others. Those
> shows that proved inovative and took competition to the next level. I
> don't think '95 Cabs are the ticket here. Having to be forced to watch
> basically the same show with the same rotating company front with the same
> music year after year hurt me in more than an emotional way, it was
> torchure!!!! Even your fans were begging for something different. I really
> think it would be at your best interest to re-eveluate your view from
> those truley groundbreaking Cab shows of earlier. Those were the shows
> that founded DCA.
> If your looking for the toughest show ever performed, and performed the
> best in DCA, I believe you would have to look at Empire's 1st crown. That
> was hard......real hard......really, really hard. I did not march that
> particular year but wished I had in some respects and not in others. A
> show of this magnitude did not due justice to the spirit of the season.
> And made it difficult for some to return. BURNOUT!!!!
> The point I am trying to make is that there are few corps and shows that
> stood out as pioniers in DCA. Those would be concidered as the best corps
> ever. To say one is the best over the rest surely suggests that someone is
> a couple peperoni short of a large pizza.
> highschool
>
> p.s.- i really wish you damned Canadians would stop messing around an come
> down to Columbus, OH for lots of beer and barbeque. juice, my lips are
> retired, besides there has yet to be a better contra player to soil the
> field for me to show up.
Henry G. Grilk
WHITE 100 <whi...@pottsville.infi.net> wrote in article
<334066...@pottsville.infi.net>...
>
> As for your remark about what I'm smoking, I'll ignore it because I dont
> usually make a habit of insulting anyone who is involved in such a
> fantastic activity as drum corps.
>
> As for Bush, I was not referring to "the long haul". In my opion, Bush
> did create a dynasty. etc, etc.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hi Mr. "White" (What's your name?),
I'll give you the same response as I did Mr. "Falcon"
Please don't get your nose all bent out of shape by the "vegetation"
comment - it's a JOKE for crying out loud!
While I certainly acknowledge Bush's accomplishments over their
"relatively" short lifetime, and am a "fan" of Bush's efforts, work ethic,
musicianship, etc., the numbers speak for themselves. The topic of this
discussion is the BEST DCA DRUM CORP OF ALL TIME.......... repeat, of ALL
TIME! There's no contest here. I could cite dozens - maybe hundreds - of
statistics. The Caballeros are a DYNASTY! If they're not on top, they're
always in the running and among the top Corp. And the best of the
Caballeros are better than the best of Bush, or the best of Empire, or the
best of Westshore, etc. Period! Once again, that doesn't diminish the
accomplishments of Bush or any other Corp. Personally, I WANT Bush to be
successful and to continuously improve - as I do for all Corp in the DCA.
Superior competition brings out the best in EVERY Corp. Given the scope of
topic, I think my remarks were quite appropriate - Bush's limited period of
existence doesn't enter into the equation. There may come a point in time
that Bush, to, can be referred to as a DYNASTY - but that isn't the issue.
The issue is the BEST DCA DRUM CORP OF ALL TIME! That was the '95 Cabs
(97.7 - Highest socore in DCA history...... FACT! It's also a fact that
the Cabs have held more "highest score in DCA history" scores than all
other Corp put together). Yes, Cabs (and other Corp) of the 50's, 60's,
70's, 80's, etc. of their time were great. But, like in Olympic (and
other) sports, it's difficult to compare from decade to decade, from
generation to generation. Today's Corps are better prepared physically and
technically (music, marching, shows, etc.), just like today's athletes can
run faster and jump higher. The issue here isn't the "best of a certain
period", but the BEST...OF ALL TIME. That's the '95 Caballeros. The '93
Bush Corp was great! The BEST...OF ALL TIME? The '95 Caballeros.
Thanks for the response, and good luck.
Joe Bogie
>The Blousemen didn't have BOB DEVLIN that monster of a drummer know as
>the
>God of Drums!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ah, but we did at Cabs in 82!! Who could ever forget (remember?) the
infamous BOP-BEEEEE-YUPS near the end of Evita?
Talk about a drug-induced flashback......
J.L. Vala
"Just when you got it made
And all your bills are paid
You stumble and fall into your grave..." V. Furnier
FloydCow
CAbate62
How about 1986 Steel City Ambassadors??? Horn line???
"Somewhere".......soprano soloist Curt Hawkins?????? No votes???
Andrew H. Grilk
Didn't Bush come in 3rd in '91?
--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Andrew H. Grilk
Software Engineer
Securities Data Company
Newark, NJ
gr...@tfn.com
RGIL67 <rgi...@aol.com> wrote in article
<19970401201...@ladder01.news.aol.com>...
Andrew H. Grilk
Floyd, I'd also like to note, that although you thought of Empire's show in
'91 as ground-breaking, I fail to see it. The lost Visual by over 3 points
to the Cabs that year at finals, and although their horn book was very
clean, difficult (or hard as you put it) would not exactly be my choice of
words. For the top 3-4 DCA corps, from a difficulty rating of horn-book I
would place Empire last. This is not to say that their hornline is bad by
any means, just that the difficutly of the charts just doesn't match up to
the competition (Bush, Cabs, Sun, Westshore in '96).
So again I fail to see your point regarding really, really, really hard.
--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Andrew H. Grilk
Hawthorne Caballeros
Lead Baritone
1988-Present.
FloydCow <floy...@aol.com> wrote in article
<19970402020...@ladder01.news.aol.com>...
SAC95
Floydclown writes:
>If your looking for the toughest show ever performed, and performed the
>best in DCA, I believe you would have to look at Empire's 1st crown. That
>was hard......real hard......really, really hard.
Yeah, okay.....Look at the Sunrisers..1988 & 89 If you want to talk about
difficulty.
> I did not march that particular year but wished I had in some respects
and not >in others. A show of this magnitude did not due justice to the
spirit of the >season.
>And made it difficult for some to return. BURNOUT!!!!
>The point I am trying to make is that there are few corps and shows that
>stood out as pioniers in DCA. Those would be concidered as the best corps
>ever.
Nope, it's a scary thing to say, but I'd have to admit the Cabs win this
category.
> To say one is the best over the rest surely suggests that someone is
> a couple peperoni short of a large pizza.
You had just said that Empire's show was the hardest ever....you said
ever. The toughest show ever written, performed the best ever. WOW. I
missed it.
Talk about a couple of peperoni's short. You, my friend are certifiable.
Chuck Meyette
CAbate62 wrote:
>
> How about 1986 Steel City Ambassadors??? Horn line???
> "Somewhere".......soprano soloist Curt Hawkins?????? No votes???
Are you a SCA alumni? You've got a page @:
http://www.concentric.net/~cmeyette/scalum.htm
Chuc Meyette: Steel City '89-93
Siglow
The best all-around drum corp for one year, that is, most solid
performance in horns, drum and marching in all captions. The New York
Skyliners ' 72. Comparable to the ' 27 Yankees. There was more talent in
that corp than any drum corp before or since. There were sopranos who
would have playing solos in ANY other drum corp but were relegated to 2nd
soprano and did it willingly just for the privilege to play with that
hornline. True they didn't go undefeated but they definitely should have
(not going to go into DCA politics here), they lost DCA Championships by
.3 (a point penalty for every 10 seconds or part there of overtime, they
were .7 of a second overtime). Cabs won that year but definitely were NOT
the better corp. As I stated above, I will not get into politics.
I will say this. The Cabs of recent years are very reminiscent of the
attitude that was characteristic of the Skyliners of my day. I've heard
some of the recent members of Cabs whom I competed against and are still
marching (Yea you Louie) "In order to win by a tenth, we gotta beat'em by
points. Skyliners used that as a psyche move back in the sixties, glad to
see it still works.
My .02 cents!!!
Mike Siglow
Madonna - 1953-64
(Yes, there was a Drum Corp named Madonna, organized by the same priest who started St. Andrews Bridgemen, forerunner to the Bayonne Bridgemen, Fr. J.J. Donovan)
Skyliners - Nov 11, 1964-70, 75-78, 92
Henry G. Grilk
FloydCow <floy...@aol.com> wrote in article
<19970402020...@ladder01.news.aol.com>...
> Alright, I have listened to enough of this-
> I realize that I have already taken quite a bit of abuse since playing
> around on this damn computer, but I would like to try and make an
> intelligent comment on this subject since knowone else has. etc., etc.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hi Floyd,
Just for the record I'd like to point out a few FACTS! - - - -
1.) The Cabs shows are NOT the same year-after-year! They are distinctly
different each year - the drills are entirely different with the exception
of the pinwheel at the end - during the "rumps" - which is a signature
piece just like Sky's "NY-NY". However all the drill leading up to the
pinwheel and after the pinwheel's company-front are different. Finally,
this "signature" section is after all field judging and is for GE only.
2.) While the Cabs frequently play the same "songs" from a relatively
limited library of great Latin music (our theme), every year it's an
entirely different ARRANGEMENT! We get the music, and it's all new! And
these arrangements get tougher and tougher. There are no "easy" parts -
the lower-3rd Baritone part is just as technically challenging as the
upper-lead (yes, the music is written for 6 baritone parts, as many as 10
sop parts, 4 melophone parts and 3 contra parts!).
3.) In '93 we tried something "new" - West Side Story. A big departure
from traditional Cabs shows. It was absolutely fantastic! The drill was
great and the music was fabulous - particularly the brass. We lost. Our
fans said.... "where are the rumps?". No, Floyd, our fans WANT the
traditional Cabs show. There's a "Comfort Zone" in the familiar, that's
what our fans want, and - after all - aren't we doing this to please our
fans?
The point is that - although it might appear so to the casual observer -
Cabs shows from year to year are vastly different.
See ya all & good luck in '97
SNRdrmDlux
Best DCA corps?Ever?I think there are a few corps who had their moments in
Senior corps history. I could'nt say just one though. I've seen senior
shows from 1972 to today and I have my favorite shows and drumlines. 1976
Hawthorne,Skyliners and Hurricanes were great. Early eighties Sunrisers
had some great corps and drumlines. Reading always seemed to put out a
classy corps and I always liked their drumming.Hawthorne blew me away in
1995.Lately, I really dig what the team from Harrison N.J. has done in the
90's.
I don't know if I would want to REALLY sit down and analyze who THE best
corps is,because I try to enjoy them ALL.
Danny Raymond Jr.
Realdeal63
I have to agree with many of your answers. But I have to put in my two
cents. Lets not forget the Crusaders Drum Line in 1995, 2 tenths from
first. Behind Westshore and Bush. Not to shabby for a 7th place corp.
If I am remembering right then came Empire then the best corp of all time,
The Cabs. Thank God for that horn line or you guys might have been in
third behind Westshore and the Statesmen, Not necessarally in that order.
Any way, good luck to all of the corps in 1997. This should be a great
year for DCA.
FOSSIL50
Danny that was the most sensible reply to the posting that I have seen
yet!
Tim Campbell
Hawthorne Caballeros
Thomas Tufaro
We still won. We still have the highest score ever.
Tom Tufaro
Caballeros
Contraline 90,91,94
Bassline 95-96
Terminal User
>For the top 3-4 DCA corps, from a difficulty rating of horn-book I
> would place Empire last. This is not to say that their hornline is bad by
> any means, just that the difficutly of the charts just doesn't match up to
> the competition (Bush, Cabs, Sun, Westshore in '96).
>
> Andrew H. Grilk
> Hawthorne Caballeros
> Lead Baritone
> 1988-Present.
>
Wait a minute...My eyes must be deceiving me. Dd a die-hard Caballero
baritone just admit that Shore's book last year was (gulp) difficult???
Thanks, Andy! I never thought I'd see that day!
Harry Baer IV
Westshoremen '96
1996 DCA CHAMPS!!!
Peter Spinney
Realdeal63 wrote:
>
> I have to agree with many of your answers. But I have to put in my two
> cents. Lets not forget the Crusaders Drum Line in 1995, 2 tenths from
> first. Behind Westshore and Bush. Not to shabby for a 7th place corp.
> If I am remembering right then came Empire then the best corp of all time,
> The Cabs. Thank God for that horn line or you guys might have been in
> third behind Westshore and the Statesmen, Not necessarally in that order.
> Any way, good luck to all of the corps in 1997. This should be a great
> year for DCA.
Who the hell has the great non-biased mind to make these kind answers to
these type of questions. I think that these corp bashing arguments
between how great Hawthorne or Empire or Shore is so trivial. Just play
and march hard and try to remember why we do this. It's a long time
till Allentown. Try to have fun for the next 5 months.
Spin
Cabs 95,96
Cadets 97
Chuck Meyette
I don't know...I'd have to say that the best DCA corps has yet to be
decided since DCA is an ongoing circuit. Maybe the question should be,
"Who has been the best DCA corps to date?"
Chuck Meyette: Director-Steel City Drum & Bugle Corps
(wanting to be the best corps in the future history of DCA)
lega...@aol.com
In article <01bc403b$6f1f4660$e05a45c6@hgrilk>, "Henry G. Grilk" <hgr...@paonline.com> writes:
> In '93 we tried something "new" - West Side Story. A big departure
>from traditional Cabs shows. It was absolutely fantastic! The drill was
>great and the music was fabulous - particularly the brass. We lost. Our
>fans said.... "where are the rumps?". No, Floyd, our fans WANT the
>traditional Cabs show. There's a "Comfort Zone" in the familiar, that's
>what our fans want, and - after all - aren't we doing this to please our
>fans?
I guess this really gets to the heart of the matter regarding "tradition". The fact is, hard core drum corps fans - the folks that travel hundreds of miles to get to a show, go to those shows
expecting to see and hear certain things. Madison's "rip your face off" hornline, Phantom's treatment of orchestral works, Cab's "rumps", Skyliner's "concrete canyons", etc. Why do you think Madison
continued to play part of "Slaughter.." as a warm-up years after the show had changed? When those things don't make the field, fans are disappointed and think twice about coming back. Changes can
be good and bad. FWIW, I've been hearing the "rumps" since waaayyy back, along with "NY-NY" and (dare I say this?) "Magnificent Seven". When those signatures are not part of the show, the corps
could win it all but it would not be a memorable year from a fan's perspective.
Tradition is more than G bugles.....
Larry Girard, Jr.
Doug Luberts
Hey, some of the older corps were good. The Skyliners of the '60s had
an awesome hornline for their day, although we'd probably all cringe
if we heard a recording of it now.
How about keeping the context of the discussion to within a decade,
such as who was the best DCA corps of the '80s. That should be easier
to agree on. ;-)
"Alexander J. Nielsen" <nie...@tigger.jvnc.net> wrote:
>please keep in mind that bush is only 15 years old, not 50 like some of
>the oldtimers. you have to look at what we've done in that time period.
>keeping with your baseball analogy, we're batting .400 at championships...
***************************************************************
Doug Luberts
dlub...@citationsystems.com
http://www.citationsystems.com
http://www.mindspring.com/~dluberts
"There are two major products that come out of Berkeley: LSD and UNIX. We don't believe this to be a coincidence."
--Jeremy S. Anderson
***************************************************************
Purple408
Over the long haul, You have to go with the Cabs. I've beaten them and
lost to them, and after prelims, I thought I may not get to win a
title.....but even though I did, they were right there, and deservedly so.
No corps can march their record, especially over 50 years. The fans voted
them in 89, and if you took another poll, they'd be right there. Hey, I'm
Westshore black & blue thru & thru, but when I go to a sr. show, I base it
on my corps & Hawthorne....I want to root for my family & be
rocked...bonus if they both rock.
Jeff Ream
Westshore bass line 89, 90, 95, 96
Brian H. Grilk
Realdeal63 wrote:
>
> I have to agree with many of your answers. But I have to put in my two
> cents. Lets not forget the Crusaders Drum Line in 1995, 2 tenths from
> first. Behind Westshore and Bush. Not to shabby for a 7th place corp.
> If I am remembering right then came Empire then the best corp of all time,
> The Cabs. Thank God for that horn line or you guys might have been in
> third behind Westshore and the Statesmen, Not necessarally in that order.
> Any way, good luck to all of the corps in 1997. This should be a great
> year for DCA.
where do you base that comment? (i.e., we won marching by almost 2
points) and the drums were out by, I believe 4 tenths?
Just curious........
Brian
Brian H. Grilk
CAbate62 wrote:
>
> How about 1986 Steel City Ambassadors??? Horn line???
> "Somewhere".......soprano soloist Curt Hawkins?????? No votes???
Yeah, great solo....
Brian
Thomas Tufaro
Tom Tufaro
Caballeros
90,91,94,95,96
Brian H. Grilk
FloydCow wrote:
>
> Alright, I have listened to enough of this-
> I realize that I have already taken quite a bit of abuse since playing
> around on this damn computer, but I would like to try and make an
> possible way to compare the great Cab corps of the 60's and 70's to any
> corps of today. Likewise, there is no possible way to compare the great
> DCA corps of the past, such as Sunrisers, Bushies, or the Empire Statesmen
> to each other and say that one was better than the others. All these corps
> had different styles that required different strengths (or took advantage
> of different strengths) and competed in a completely different circuit.
> Is one corps better because it created a different crowd response than
> another, or what if an individual corps stands above the rest for
> performing an incredibly difficult show without the huge outcry of glee
> from the stands.
> Let's be fair!!! One might find it easier to state that the requirements
> of that particular period forced a corps to perform in a more spectacular
> way. Sure there are those shows that stand out from the others. Those
> shows that proved inovative and took competition to the next level. I
> don't think '95 Cabs are the ticket here. Having to be forced to watch
> basically the same show with the same rotating company front with the same
> music year after year hurt me in more than an emotional way, it was
> torchure!!!! Even your fans were begging for something different. I really
> think it would be at your best interest to re-eveluate your view from
> those truley groundbreaking Cab shows of earlier. Those were the shows
> that founded DCA.
> best in DCA, I believe you would have to look at Empire's 1st crown. That
> particular year but wished I had in some respects and not in others. A
> show of this magnitude did not due justice to the spirit of the season.
> And made it difficult for some to return. BURNOUT!!!!
> The point I am trying to make is that there are few corps and shows that
> stood out as pioniers in DCA. Those would be concidered as the best corps
> a couple peperoni short of a large pizza.
>
> p.s.- i really wish you damned Canadians would stop messing around an come
> down to Columbus, OH for lots of beer and barbeque. juice, my lips are
> retired, besides there has yet to be a better contra player to soil the
> field for me to show up.
3 years? Horns were damn clean, but not playing difficult stuff.
Cabs won visual by almost 3 points in '91.
I don't recall any Cabs fans complaining about us doing the pinwheel
with Espani Cani, infact, when we didn't do it it '93 we took a lot of
heat from our fans.
You don't have to watch the our shows, and you don't have to like us,
that's fine.
But maybye you should consider the facts before posting.....
Brian
Brian H. Grilk
concert. Let's use Elton John as an example, or Rolling Stones, or
Kiss, they've all been around for 25-30 years.
Would a fan be pissed off if they went to see one of those concerts and
they played a song or two from when they first started? NO!!! That's
why they bought the tickets in the firt place! The hope to hear some
old stuff, and the excitement to hear the new stuff they're still
writing and people are still liking!
Tradition demands certainly corps play certain styles or pieces, and
this is part of the heritage of drum and bugle corps. Bringing a 1960's
version of Malaguena into a '90's style show, with today's advancements
of drum corps is exciting.
I can't help but have the hair on the back of my neck stand up everytime
I hear Hurcs play Mag Seven, ya know?
Brian
Nutrocker --
Brian H. Grilk wrote:
> > If your looking for the toughest show ever performed, and performed the
> > best in DCA, I believe you would have to look at Empire's 1st crown. That
> > was hard......real hard......really, really hard. I did not march that
> > particular year but wished I had in some respects and not in others. A
> > show of this magnitude did not due justice to the spirit of the season.
> > And made it difficult for some to return. BURNOUT!!!!
Sorry, '91 Empire was NOT the toughest show ever. Trust me, I was there
and
I got the ring to prove it. In fact, I'd say that '91 was probably one
of
the easiest shows in my drum corps career.
> '91 Empire? Um......Did you not repeat that show (almost entirely) for
> 3 years? Horns were damn clean, but not playing difficult stuff.
> Cabs won visual by almost 3 points in '91.
> I don't recall any Cabs fans complaining about us doing the pinwheel
> with Espani Cani, infact, when we didn't do it it '93 we took a lot of
> heat from our fans.
> You don't have to watch the our shows, and you don't have to like us,
> that's fine.
Let's see, '91 Empire repeating the same show almost entirely for 3
years?
As I recall, back then we had a tradition of only playing 1 song from
the
previous year and that song was never played for more than 2 years in a
row.
Where do you get 'almost entirely' from that? I will admit that from a
fan's
persective it seemed to make the years run through each other,
especially
when the musical style remained the same for all those years.
As for '91, I will agree that the horns did not play extremely difficult
stuff, but it was impressive, like you mentioned, for how clean it was.
IMHO, for Empire I think our most difficult year was '93. Many of us
were
quite talented in that corps and our abilities were challenged for most
of
the show. I've heard from people meaning to be derisive that our show
looked and sounded simple; being there and *knowing* how difficult it
really
was, I just take that as a testament to our abilities: making the
difficult
seem simple.
Speaking for the drum line, I believe '93 was the first year (for
Empire)
that the parts started out 'hot' when written and got hotter as the
season
progressed instead of getting watered down as usual. What was mentioned
above about burn-out? We got burned-out that year, big time, but we
loved
every minute of it.
For the record, I was one of the people that missed the Rumps in Cab's
show
that year. I've only been with Drum Corps since the early 80's, but I
can
appreciate tradition when it's there for the fans and performers alike.
Good Luck in Allentown!
Nutrocker -- Francis Schwalm
Statesman in a Strange Land...
KZ2
long live Mag 7!!!!
...I loved your comment about tradition.......I can still remember way
back when...
the tell tail cascade of sound as the Hurcs transitioned from the soft
"maria" (not sure how to spell that!) and "hit the stands" with the Mag
7.......
.......boy this dates me!...LOL
Karen
GEORGE 82
Wait a minute...My eyes must be deceiving me. Dd a die-hard Caballero
baritone just admit that Shore's book last year was (gulp) difficult???
Thanks, Andy! I never thought I'd see that day!
Harry Baer IV
Westshoremen '96
1996 DCA CHAMPS!!!
**************************************************************************
********************
Andy said it was difficult....he DIDN'T say that it was played well!!!
Andrew H. Grilk
I never said I didn't call a spade, a spade. If you're good I tell ya, if
you SUCK tell ya.
--
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Andrew H. Grilk
Hawthorne Caballeros
Lead Baritone
1988-Present.
GEORGE 82 <geor...@aol.com> wrote in article
<19970408004...@ladder01.news.aol.com>...
Doug Lieux
There has been a lot of debate over this topic and a lot of people
didn't take the original poster's advice and did the "rah-rah wait till
next year thing." I have a few random thoughts:
First of all I am a Westshoremen and have been for 3 and a half years
now, I am proud of where I march but am not about to throw it in
anyone's face. I've been in the snareline this whole time and have
accomplished some great things with them.
Is Westshore the greatest of all time ? NOT ON YOUR LIFE!!!
Is Hawthorne ? I think there are a couple of reasons why they are:
1) Track Record.
The Hawthorne Caballeros have amassed more DCA championships than any
other corps; on top of that they are the only corps that has
consistently been in the top 3 the longest. This not only makes them
great, it also pushes the rest of the activity to be better.
A lot of people have made the claim that Cabs '95 championship was their
first in ten years and that they were weak between '85 and '95, what's
the lowest that they placed during this time 4th ? 5th ? Established
DCA corps like Reading and Sky would kill for this track record.
2.) High Performance Standards
I'm just a young'n, have only been around DCA since '90 but I've heard
and seen the videos...throughout their history the Cabs have maintained
high performance standards for drumcorps performance (I also don't see
things as Senior vs. Junior, there's good corps and bad corps in my
book) that other corps have had to try to measure up to, this is the
reason for point 1.
and most importantly:
3.) Class
Hawthorne has proven over the course of 50+ years that they know how to
win and lose gracefully. After DCA 1995 as we were leaving the field in
Scranton, in second place, a member of another corps (I won't say which
it was here) spit on us in disgust!!! That is something that the Cabs
would never do. After finals this year they turned and played to
us....as Mr. Ream stated earlier "That was class, power and emotion."
They didn't have to, but they did because they are a classy organization
and they always have been.
So, as has been stated here previously, over the long haul, I gotta go
with Hawthorne. They are my favorite corps besides the one I march in,
though my fiancee doesn't see why, but nonetheless....
Doug Lieux
Harrisburg Westshoremen snareline '93,'95,'96,'97
Susan Zellea
Doug,
I am part of the Caballeros organization and feel the thrill of the
competition as much as the marching members. My sons and husband march.
One thing we always say is that all on the field are winners. It takes
discipline,determination and a love of belonging to be any corps
member.Each and every performer has dedicated time, effort and a part of
him/herself to a goal,to do the best they can.
I truly appreciate your comments and agree with you. The Cabs believe
in doing their best, pleasing their fans, and holding their heads up
high, no matter how low they may feel. We've had our defeats that were
questioned and those that were deserved, as well as, some wonderful
winning seasons, but I feel that at all times we displayed respect and
pride for who we are and what we represent.
Thank you for your comments and I wish you a good season.
Susan Zellea/Cabs Booster Staff
Timothy Ace Holleran
To me, the fact that veteran Westshoremen tip their caps to the Cabs
says it all.
But my money's still on Tommie Martin of the old Sky as the best
soloist. There was a corps who could rock the house on any given night.
Some, I repeat, some of those Sky corps had the excitement level and
soul, that made me forget about the Cabs.
Yes, being from the Nutmeg State, the Hurcs did it for me with "Mariah,"
"Mag Seven" and many others. In fact, going for a trek in the Wayback
Machine, the seniors gave me chillbumps, which is a foreign term here in
New England.
But sheesh, over the years, how can you not name them Silverbranders as
the best DCA corps?
Ace Holleran
Henry G. Grilk
Doug Lieux <dli...@udel.edu> wrote in article <334C36...@udel.edu>...
>
> Is Westshore the greatest of all time ? NOT ON YOUR LIFE!!!
>
> Is Hawthorne ? I think there are a couple of reasons why they are:
>
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hi there Doug,
Many thanks for your very eloquent message. I'm very proud to have had the
opportunity to contribute to the Caballeros' ongoing tradition of
excellence (including the incredible '95 season). As I have stated in this
NG on a number of occasions, I have great respect for ANYONE involved in DC
- I know how much work it takes, the dedication, the physical aspects, the
musicality, etc. - and I deeply respect the accomplishments of all other
Corp. Sure nice to see someone like you sharing my thoughts on this
matter.
Good luck in '97.
Hank ("Homer") - Cabs Baritone, '91-'96
Lancaster, PA
David P. Linton Jr.
I don't know, I'm not knocking the Cabs, because I saw them every week in
'95 and it was a great corps, but keep in mind a few things:
1. It is silly to compare scores from year to year because they are
higher each year, on the average and are based on the initial scores
given at the beginning of the season. There is usually a pretty consistent
average increase that most corps recieve during the season.
2. In the tail end of the season, especially prelims and finals, the best
corps are on towards the end of the show, so whatever scores are given at
the beginning of the night will set the pace for the rest of the show.
Why do I make these points? Well, IN MY OPINION, I don't think that Cabs
getting the highest score to date is really a very serious consideration
in who the best corps is. It should be just the overall track record and
any number of other things, but not that.
Anyone who was there will tell you that '93 Bush was one of, if not the
best marching corps to this date. And we were undefeated for 18 or 19
shows. We won visual at every show by at least 2 points and I have the
sheets to back this up. We were not the best corps in DCA history, I am
not saying that.
Just making another point. I don't think that Cabs would win it hands
down, just because of "the '95 season."
> Hi there Doug,
>
> Many thanks for your very eloquent message. I'm very proud to have had the
> opportunity to contribute to the Caballeros' ongoing tradition of
> excellence (including the incredible '95 season). As I have stated in this
> NG on a number of occasions, I have great respect for ANYONE involved in DC
> - I know how much work it takes, the dedication, the physical aspects, the
> musicality, etc. - and I deeply respect the accomplishments of all other
> Corp. Sure nice to see someone like you sharing my thoughts on this
> matter.
>
> Good luck in '97.
>
>
> Hank ("Homer") - Cabs Baritone, '91-'96
> Lancaster, PA
>
>
******************************************************************************
Would a Hindu dentist transcend dental medication?
******************************************************************************
David P. Linton Jr. GES Internet
Lin...@ges.com Technical Consultant
http://WWW.GES.COM/linton http://SUPPORT.GES.COM
800.358.4437
Thomas Tufaro
How about the other 7 times the Cabs won DCA, the numerous state titles,
VFW titles, AL titles, the 4 undefeated seasons ('95 just happened to be
one of them. The "All time greatest..." anything is a loaded statement,
but the Cabaleros are certainly one of the most successful. That's my
opinion, which just happens to be based upon facts.
Brian H. Grilk
average score) but I disagree.
If that were the case, then every year should be a record score, right?
Before '95 Cabs, Bush held the record with a 96.9 in 1990. At the end
of that season (correct me if I'm wrong) Bush didn't really have could
placements at shows (I'm refering to not going on last) till Prelims,
and then ofcourse finals because you won.
Between 1990 and 95, they were very few final scores above 96, let alone
coming close to the record.
'93 Bush was definately a great year for them (and you), but in '95 Cabs
one every show by over 2 points (except for one), consistently winning
visual captions over 2 points, and horns hovering at almost 2 points.
Infact, the only time a corps came within that 2 point range was the
Bushwackers in East Stroudsburg (Remember the heat that day??damn that
was hot!!) in July, and Cabs one the show by 1.2 points.
So if your arguement was true about average increase in score, then look
at the overall spread of points during the season.
Also I might add that at finals, that was the second highest spread
between 1st and 2nd place ever at DCA's. (The highest spread was in
1976 when the Cabs one by 6 points)
And please, I am not knocking '93 Bush, but 18 or 19 shows undefeated?
As I recall, there were not that many shows during the season, and
please correct me if I'm wrong, but Bush did not compete in several
shows in August.
Brian
David P. Linton Jr.
Brian,
first of all, when I refer to 18 or 19 shows in a row, we won the
last 5 or 6 shows of '92 and then all shows in '93. I'm just referring to
the streak. And, we did 15 shows that year. We had 3 weekends where we did
2 shows. We also won all of our shows in '93 by well over 1.5 points,
except for finals where we only won by 1.2 or somwthing like that.
I am not trying to say that we were better than anyone after that,
just trying to prove that the record score doesn't mean crap. It is not
accurate to compare it from year to year because the 95 cabs were not
competing against the '90 bushwackers. They were competeing against the
1995 corps only.
Also, we competed in all our scheduled shows in '93, we just did a
few different ones than you guys did in August. Sometimes there is a small
show somewhere and they needa member corps to headline it, so we have done
that.
Jaime Bartushak
Let me first state that I have been involved with the Sunrisers for many
years. During that tenure, there have been many seasons which we duled
both Hawthorne and Bush during the August stretch run. Some years we
came out ahead, some years they came out ahead.
Comparing scores week to week is not accurate in drum corps let alone
comparing scores year to year. My humble suggestions as some of the
better seasons for DCA corps.
84, 95 - Cabs, 84 was a probably a better all round corps. Had a better
drum line and color guard relative to the times. 95 Cabs had a better
horn line. Knowing Mike Longdo, this horn effort was the culmination of
his years in drum corps.
87, 88, 89 - Sunrisers - Pick a year. Quality shows, quality corps,
superior staff. George Zingali, Jim Prime,
90, 92, 93 - Bush - Pick a year. 93 - Sunday in the Park with George
stands out in my mind. In fact, discounting the Sunrisers due to my
undoubted bias, I think 93 Bush was one of the better DCA corps to date.
Originality, Proficiency, Difficulity, and Consistancy.
Regards,
Jaime Bartushak
RGIL67
AGREED - AND WELL SPOKEN AS ALWAYS - MY FREIND!!
RICH
Brian H. Grilk
David P. Linton Jr. wrote:
>
previous year, sorry! I know you guys were not at every show that we
were at, and I wasn't insinuating that you didn't compete because we
didn't see you, I really thought that you guys did not compete in
several shows, like the weekend of DCI's.
Anyway....
seeya
later
Brian
David P. Linton Jr.
In '93 there was no show the weekend of DCI championships. That has only
come about the last couple of years.
> I didn't know you were refering to the entire streak of wins from a
> previous year, sorry! I know you guys were not at every show that we
> were at, and I wasn't insinuating that you didn't compete because we
> didn't see you, I really thought that you guys did not compete in
> several shows, like the weekend of DCI's.
>
> Anyway....
> seeya
> later
> Brian
>
>
******************************************************************************
Brian H. Grilk
David P. Linton Jr. wrote:
>
TAllen77
Since I'm the guy who started this whole debate , let me clarify a few
things:
I voted for the '95 Cabs as having the best single season ever. One of the
reasons was ( and I'm going to get killed for saying this ) - They were
the only DCA champion during my time with Empire ('89-96) that didn't just
"go through the motions" after winning the prelims by a big margin.
Now the Bushwackers guys are going to get pissed at me.
But , we were certainly guilty of this in '91 and '94. And Bush was also
.
I've had people from Bush e-mail me saying that their Prelims performance
in '93 was possibly the best performance ever by a Senior corps. Hell,
even some of OUR fans say that, and I even know of 2 Visual judges that
say the same thing.. But in the Finals we were .4 away - with all due
respect to my RAMD idol , Dave Linton - look it up.
And while I'm at it, to all you Cabs guys - the voting was for best single
season, and you'd probably win "Best All Time History " as well. But it
wasn't intended for you to take the opportunity to say that everybody else
sucked.
Now I'm a little nervous about saying this - but -- we (Empire) beat the
Cabs every time we faced them from Cumberland '91 to Jersey City '95. Of
course , we haven't been close since. ( and since I'm retired , I 'll
never have a chance to redeem myself- but that's a challenge for the new
Empire guys).
Now that I'm on everybody's list , let me say something that I'm surprised
hasn't been said yet - Frank Ponzo ( Cabs) deserves alot of votes for best
soloist in DCA history. I originally voted John Grass of Sky , mostly
because I was 12 at the time of DCA '75 at Aquinas Stadium in Rochester -
and John Grass was the "DA MAN" But Frankie certainly knows the respect I
have for him.
Flame me if wish , but let's keep this debate fun - because it has been so
far.
Tom Allen
(Empire lead soprano and Visual staff 89-96)
And what the hell , I might as well say it - Syracuse Brigadiers Visual
Staff '97.
But I'm not playing , I left my mouthpiece in Kodak's Parking Lot.
RGIL67
I am only responding to one part of the previous message - FRANK PONZO!!!
He already has the biggest ego ever - why make it worse!
I love frank - we marched together in the Sunrisers in tha 80's and he
teaches the charts I write to a band we work for - we know each other very
well! - HOWEVER,
best solist ever?????? He is (i'm gonna regret this) a great player - ONE
of the best ever - but of all time ??? In the world of SR corps, I am
considered a kid - being 30 years old and only starting corps in 85 ----
but I am sure that there are others in SR history that are just as great
if not better!
Did Jeff Kevitt (spelling??) do senior after his stint w/ muchachos?? if
so...........
Just my 2 cents - and I love ya' frank!!
Peace!
Rich Guillen
Brass Arranger & caption head
Sunrisers drum & bugle corps
Bmarbs
Hmmm very interesting on Ponzo being the best soloist ever, damn good horn
player but i don't know if i would say best ever, different players,
different styles...
Shelly
Brian H. Grilk
because I take him for granted!!
Just a note: I think you overstated the fact that Cabs members are
using this as an opportunity to say everyone else sucks. If you truly
belive that's what was intended, I feel bad for you.
Brian
Brian H. Grilk
two and a few beers, welllll.......)ha
David P. Linton Jr.
Tom, I will not flame you or disagree with you, because you are realistic
and level headed. I never voted for Bushwackers as the best corps,
because we have not yet proven ourselves over the long haul. I also will
not count the American Legion or VFW championships after 1975 because
they don't count for anything. The best corps since then have been in DCI
and DCA so a championship in those arenas is not as valuable (IN MY OPINION.)
I wish we could hear more from you Tom, you make sense.
Hornman331
Here is a list of twenty of the all-time best soloists ever to perform in
Senior Drum Corps. These are not in any specific order, and some of these
gentlemen are no longer with us. The fellows listed below have a special
way of communicating to an audience, that puts them in a class of their
own. Whereas I know that I probably have forgotten someone, the soloists
mentioned are people that truly made an impression on Drum Corps fans for
years.
1)David Martin-Empire Statesmen (having him #1 is not an accident)
2)Jim Centorino-Matadors
3)Richie Price-Matadors, Buccaneers
4)Mike DiMeo-Brigadiers
5)Pepe Notaro-Skyliners
6)Frank Ponzo-Cabs
7)John Grass-Sky
8)Tommy Martin-Sky
9)Tommy "Bucky" Swan- Sky
10)George "Side-Mouth" Richardson -Sky
11)"Duke" Marrotta-Cabs
12)Kurt Hawkins-Steel City
13)James D'Amico-Cabs
14)Don Angelica-Cabs
15)"Riggy" Laus-Pittsburgh Rockets
16)Frankie Farr-Geneva Appleknockers
17)Kenny "Ace" Peterson-Geneva Appleknockers
18)John "Screech" Arientano-Sunrisers
19)Jamie Coolbaugh-Bushwackers
20)Jimmy Steele-Empire Statesmen
As was stated earlier, these are in no specific order (except #1),
basically because all of these performers can perform magic on an
audience. There are others that have this special gift that I'm sure that
were not mentioned in this posting. Apologies indeed to those outstanding
performers.
Hornman331
TWASIK77
Okay, so now we're into "who is the best soloist ever?"
But you left someone out. Since you've been around long enough to know
Ace Peterson, and still close enough to the activity to mention Jamie
Coolbaugh, then you may have heard of Donny Allen from the Empire
Statesmen ( yes, he's my brother, but I'm heavier).
To leave him completely off the list is either misinformed - or personal.
I guarantee you that 90% of the guys on that list would have him in there
somewhere.
To be fair, I'll be the first to tell you that he hasn't hit a Double C
in 15 years ( or at least since his run in with his dentist - Dr. Gordie
Howe ). I'll even admit that he isn't nearly the dancer he thinks he is.
And I won't even tell you what I think of his singing.
But no one in DCA ( maybe even DCI as well) has ever brought Jazz Improv
to this activity like him. Sure, I'm biased - but you're nuts.
He might not be the best "soloist," but he has crafted some of the best
"solos" in DCA history . Check out "Old Man River"- 93, and "I Go To Rio"
-96. Say what you want Empire's show concepts over the years, that's OK
--- Here are the chord changes - YOU take the next 8 bars.
I've got to believe that some of you older guys(Macy's, St. Joe's ,
Blousemen, etc.) will back me up on this.
By the way, I would have had David Martin #1 also - mostly because he hit
a Double E one day at Empire practice, and it dislocated my shoulder from
about 30 yards away.
While were at it -- the time has come for David Martin to be put in the
DCA Hall Of Fame - He's due - enough bullshit and foot dragging. He
shouldn't have to wait another year. Mike Longdo' s next - he shouldn't
have to wait much longer either.
But back to Donny Allen not being in the top 20 soloists: Does he have
the range and power of a 1991 David Martin? - no . Does he have the
passionate machismo of a 1994, 95 Frank Ponzo? - no. Does he have the
schmoozabilty of Mike? - no. But considering the advancements in Bugle
Technolgy (oxymoron), he 's got to be in the Top 10. I 'd even have
Screech Arientano alot higher as well.
Why didn't you put any of the Rochester Crusaders soloists in there as
well?
Whatever -"Hornman."
Tom Allen - (Empire' 89-'96, Donny 's brother' 62-'97)
FOSSIL50
Nice lineup Hornman but you're right, you,ve forgotten someone.
Bobby Burke,
Skyliners & Sunrisers certainly belongs on that list if not in the top
ten. Having marched next to him for a few years it was nice to have a
soloist who'll play the line parts too before and after solos. Ditto for
Frank Ponzo. I think if you consider that criteria also, you may narrow
your list a little, but that's something only we players would know.
Tim Campbell
Hawthorne Caballeros 90-97
Sunrisers 78-79 86-89
Blessed Sac( Really long ago)
Gary Winkelman
You know Tom, there have been a plethora of great soloists in drum
corps since the Big One (you know WWII). My earliest rememberances
take me back to the days of the Geneva Appleknockers with Frankie Farr
and the kid, Ace Peterson. As I look back at their accomplishments I
am truly amazed at what they could get out of a WFL horn that had one
valve and after you were through playing it you could always drive
railroad spikes with it! That corps was built around those soloists
and for a good reason!
Speaking about the "old days", there was this cocky kid that played
the Jose' and My Heart Belongs to Daddy solos with St. Joes back in
the 60's that could light up a crowd. Gee...wasn't that Jim Allen?
What kind of cereal did your mother feed you guys?
This discussion could go on for a long time. Every corps has great
players but there's something special about those guys that week after
week stand in front of their corps and lay it on the line for the
whole world to see and hear! They are truly special...
Bmarbs
Tim, agree with ya on Bobby
Shelly
Jaime Bartushak
As always Timmy, absoultely correct and eloquently stated. Also, Richie
Price had some noteable solo's as a member of SUN in the middle 80's
after his tenure with Reading and The Matadors.
Regards,
Jaime B.
_________________________________________________________
Tom Jones
In article <19970418032...@ladder01.news.aol.com>, twas...@aol.com says...
>
>Okay, so now we're into "who is the best soloist ever?"
>
>Why didn't you put any of the Rochester Crusaders soloists in there as
>well?
{Lurk mode off}
Thanks Tom Allen!
Well FINALLY!!! I'll speak up on this one.
I've only been watching DCA since the late 80's, and performing it since 92.
But one of the most emotional solos I've ever heard would be Scott Shyne,
Summertime, Crusaders 93. Everytime I listen to the tape, my heart melts and
it's hard to hold back the tears (not to mention it was an awsome 36 horns that
were only .3 shy of a tie for the Brass caption. YES, I said 36 HORNS!).
Not really hearing many of the perviously mentioned soloist before, this would
be #1 on my list (since I wasn't even born when some of these guys played,
no flames please).
>Whatever -"Hornman."
>
>Tom Allen - (Empire' 89-'96, Donny 's brother' 62-'97)
{Lurk mode on}
Thomas J. Jones
Rochester Crusaders Senior D&B Corps 92 - Present
Mellaphone 92 - 93
Lead Soprano 94 - Present
Board Member 95 - 96
M&M Instructor 97
AJLisko
>>>hornman331's top soloist list included:
5)Pepe Notaro-Skyliners
7)John Grass-Sky
8)Tommy Martin-Sky
9)Tommy "Bucky" Swan- Sky
10)George "Side-Mouth" Richardson -Sky<<<
Nice to see so many of Sky's soloists mentioned.
Here are a few more that added to Sky's magical sound:
George Rodriquez
Gus Wilke
Johnny Guarino
Joe DeFiglia
JoJo Todaro
PeeWee Todaro
John Simpson
Kenton Clarke
Dominic Livoti
Joe Chizek
Ruben Ariola
"Dirty" Eddie Lawrence
John Girardi
John Leonhardt
All exceptional soloists. All recorded. All capable of
giving that emotional performance fans look for in a
solo. I'm glad I knew them all.
And - how about Art Hylwa from the CT Hurricanes?
Andy Lisko
St. Raphael's/Bpt. PAL 58-68
NY Skyliners 69-81
Joe Geswaldo
TWASIK77 wrote:
>
> Okay, so now we're into "who is the best soloist ever?"
>
> well?
>
>
> Tom Allen - (Empire' 89-'96, Donny 's brother' 62-'97)
Tommy,
Also keep in mind the Great Solo work of Dr. Vinnie Boombatso of the
Blousemen Alumni Brigade in the early 70's !!!!
Labubalo's soloist was pretty good too!!
Joe
Joe Geswaldo
Richie Price & Jimmy Cenarino were great Matador soloist of the 70's and
early 80's.
Thomas Tufaro
Granted horns are very important to d&b (especially those screamers),
but ask any DCA/DCI bassline who the best soloists are. You might be
taken aback
Just call me the Tieresias of d&b corps
Tom Tufaro
Thomas Tufaro
RGIL67 wrote:
>
> I am only responding to one part of the previous message - FRANK PONZO!!!
>
> He already has the biggest ego ever - why make it worse!
>
> I love frank - we marched together in the Sunrisers in tha 80's and he
> teaches the charts I write to a band we work for - we know each other very
> well! - HOWEVER,
>
> best solist ever?????? He is (i'm gonna regret this) a great player - ONE
> of the best ever - but of all time ??? In the world of SR corps, I am
> considered a kid - being 30 years old and only starting corps in 85 ----
> but I am sure that there are others in SR history that are just as great
> if not better!
>
> Did Jeff Kevitt (spelling??) do senior after his stint w/ muchachos?? if
> so...........
>
> Just my 2 cents - and I love ya' frank!!
>
> Peace!
>
> Rich Guillen
> Brass Arranger & caption head
> Sunrisers drum & bugle corps
>
>
I love you Frank!
Tom Tufaro
Cabs
Wink
Joe,
The Blousemen soloists were of course truly mystical, but who in DCA
can forget the numerous MARCHING solos performed by Tom Schaller of the
Empire Statesmen? You never know when he'll step out of the form to
perform an improvisational drill of his own. The best part was that he
would always argue "I'm on my dot"! These guys are what make senior
corps the challenge of weekend warriors that it truly is!
Gary
FOSSIL50
How true Tom since I know how much you enjoyed my Flamenco Cha Cha solos
in the parades last year !
Tim
Andrew H. Grilk
Whatever happened to Bushman? Not on your list!
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Andrew H. Grilk
Hawthorne Caballeros
Lead Baritone
1988-Present.
AJLisko wrote in article <19970419135...@ladder01.news.aol.com>...
Thomas Tufaro
I still wake up in cold sweats at night! :)
Tom Tufaro
Purple408
hey Ponzo,
I'm the former Westshore drummer you drank with after
Serenade saturday....like I said, we don't call you The Machine for
nothin'. Thanks for the chat & brews and I'm glad you liked my post about
you guys.
Jeff Ream
westshore bass line 89,90,95,96
Purple408
what about mellos & baris? there is a lot of greats there too!
Jeff Ream
Westshore bass line 89,90,95,96
PMTATOZ
A couple of names come to mind when you ask about soloist... JIMMY
CENTERINO & RICHIE (superfly) PRICE. Both soprano players I had the
pleasure to perform with. Can anyone name the DCA Corps we all marched
with????
Later,
Paul from Boston~