2016: BOC still on tour forever!!
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A sold out gig at a beautiful casino venue on the outskirts of San Diego was the host site for this BOC gig. An enthusiastic crowd of approx. 500 people welcome the Rock heroes from Long Island.
BOC was on top of its game and the crowd was well pleased. Standing ovations on the Vigil, Shooting Shark, Golden Age, ME262 and Last Days of May took place.
Danny "the monster" Miranda was back, on bass and was kicking some serious booty! Eric voice was strong and Buck was taking no prisoners. Jules and Ritchie were solid as usual.
Buck even sung a bit of Ziggy Stardust for the passing of David Bowie and then kicked into DFTR. Also acknowledging Lemmy as well.
All in all a fantastic night, and having the opportunity to bring two friends with me, who had never seen BOC before, were completely blown away... Obviously...
I was at the concert at Sycuan Casino in El Cajon on 1/14/16 and here is the set list:
Almost song-for-song the same set they did 2 years ago at Sycuan... can they ever play Astronomy?! I think I would faint...
Here's some video from this show:
Setlist:
Excellent show at the casino in Milwaukee Thursday night. I was surprised to learn about Paul Kantner's death as I got there. Jefferson Starship put on a great show in his honor. David Frieberg is the only original left now, the guy is 77 and can still really sing. Impressive.
BÖC sounded great, Buck had a cold but I couldn't tell when he sang. Great to see Danny on bass, I got the feeling from the way Eric introduced him that he's back on a permanent basis, but don't know that for sure.
I could tell the way Eric was managing the time that they were on a strict 75 minute limit, thus no noodle before Reaper and a quick good night. The house lights came on, but the crowd got really loud and the band came back out for a fun Cities. Nice when a venue allows that to happen.
Setlist:
Danny Miranda on bass! He and Richie were clowning it up, and man have we missed Danny's wonderful presence!
Richie had to take the reigns during Burnin and start improvising and soloing when Buck's Cheeseberger had tech issues... just before before the 2nd verse. They played maybe 1 or 2 minutes that way. Buck grabbed a second guitar and they started dancin. Then went right back to to the second verse... the audience loved it. A snafu turned into a "we are professionals and having a good laugh here!" type moment. The band didn't miss a beat.
"Is it a Minnesota Viking? Is it... Jesse Ventura?" (roarrrrrr!) "Well who is it..?"
Great show... the boys were in great form and played lose and fun. Great audience.
BTW: Career of Evil was not played. It looks as if EB changed it from the setlist. EB walked over to Buck and had a small chat. Then they announced Dancin'.
Free outdoor show at the AK-Chin Entertainment Complex just north of the casino.
Foghat played an hour set starting at 6:30PM. Their setlist was:
BOC came on around 8PM. Danny Miranda was on bass
Setlist:
It was fantastic to have D&S in the set again. Band was as amazing as always.
Jonathan Sloane Trio opened. Show start: 9:33 (Danny Miranda on Bass):
BOC NYC February 13, 2016 (Danny Miranda on bass) set list:
Setlist:
We made the 3 hour trip to Tacoma WA to see The Amazing Blue Oyster Cult!!! This was show 43 for me.
The show was great and the band was engaged with the crowd. This show was sold out and the crowd was into the show.
I thought the sound was better than the last few shows that I have seen.
We got a few photos with a few of the band members after the show. Nice long show with a 4 song Encore.
Just had the pleasure of attending the Blue Oyster Cult concert at Little River Casino in Manistee, MI Saturday night 3/5/16.
The Set list played is identical to the one played on 1/29/16 in Medina, Minn. With the exception of song #4. They did not play "Dancin' In The Ruins". The order including the encore is identical.
Cactus Pete's casino, Jackpot, NV. This is a tiny casino town near the Idaho border.
An eight hour drive from Sacramento, CA. I arrive to find a very well run establishment. What a great staff!
The shows took place in the Gala showroom. A rather small room with tables in the front of the stage, ringed by booths. Similar layout can be found at the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills, CA.
I was happy to see Mr. Sulton outside the casino. I thought he was a goner. I would prefer this lineup stick together until the end.
2 shows (about 70 minutes each) from the mighty BOC!! They did not disappoint!
Very well performed, energetic performances from the band. No solos during Godzilla. We did get Buck's noodle both shows. They really made the long drive worth it.
Thanks to the wonderful people of Idaho, Nevada and Utah. Thanks to the band for coming out.
Set 1
Set 2
To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the release of their iconic, multi-million selling LP "AGENTS OF FORTUNE," Blue Oyster Cult is planning two special shows which will include an unprecedented live performance of the entire AOF album from start to finish.
The first show will take place in New York City at the second "Reaper Residency" show at B.B. King's Blues Club on April 7, and the second will occur April 17 at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills, CA.
4th April 2016 Update:
What do these 3 songs have in common?
If your answer was "all 3 songs feature former BOC member ALBERT BOUCHARD on lead vocals" you would be correct!
BLUE OYSTER CULT is very excited to announce that Albert will be joining them at all of the AOF Live shows to sing those songs.
You don't want to miss this!
Very interesting. Of course, when it transpired a few weeks ago in an interview on WUSB that Albert not only knew that BOC were playing BB Kings a week or so after Blue Coupe, but he also knew that BOC were planning "something special", we all sort of speculated that - if Albert knew about it - this might indicate something along those lines...
Still, speculation is only speculation, and it's nice to have the actual announcement at last.
4th April 2016:
At this point anything is possible. Some of these songs are a bit challenging but if we have the time to work them out we can do them.
Had a great practice tonight. We're gonna rock. Plus some surprises.
I think they've already got a ticket for me to LA. Beyond that I don't know. If all goes well, there will be a demand for this kind of presentation.
I wonder how they're going to define "Agents of Fortune"...? The original or the expanded versions...? If the latter, good luck with "Dance The Night Away"...
And it's all great news for BOC fans, of course, but where's Joe in all of this, I wonder...?
Tonight's set was AOF. In order:
Albert sang Vera Gemini, Sinful Love, and Debbie Denise. Richie sang Morning Final and sounded great. True Confessions (sung by Buck) sounded great too.
The beginning of Vera Gemini was a recording and Eric did the paperboy in Morning Final...
After that they took a short break and came back to do:
Albert only returned at the start of 5 guitars...
The encore song - Me262 - included the 5 Guitars Medley (Mk II)...
So tonight I learned something. Eric Bloom taught me how to do the duckwalk. I never knew. Backstage. So much fun. Love these guys.
I thought I knew how to do it but every time I tried it I felt awkward. Eric took one look and showed what I was doing wrong and how to do it much easier. Eric also had the original idea for the 5 guitars which actually forced me to start considering myself as a guitarist. I've learned a lot from him.
A bit of insight as to what happened to Joe has emerged on Facebook where Joe wrote:
No wasn't there. I was asked to come and sing Morning Final but I didn't feel right about it. So I declined.
So, it's as we expected - Joe was expected to come along and just do one song in a set that was touted to celebrate the album he helped write and perform...
Here are my thoughts on that...
At the 2012 so-called Reunion gig, the current BOC line-up played too long (albeit including a handful of acoustic songs) and just generally didn't grasp the fact that this gig was not about them - it was about the reunion.
The result was they started so late and played so long that the reunion part only got 3 songs plus DFTR - they even had to ditch Cities! As a reunion, it was a bit of a shambles, truth be told...
Now I don't know, but my feeling is that because of the way the non-current members were treated at that event, this might have been perceived by them as a lack of appreciation for their contribution, possibly bordering into a lack of respect...?
Could this have caused resentment? I obviously don't know, but if it did, you could understand it...
Now, roll onto 2016...
First of all, the concept of performing a classic album from start to finish is definitely in vogue nowadays and, from a fans' point of view, it's a great idea and a cause for celebration.
But what should have happened, in my opinion, is that the opening "Agents of Fortune" set should have featured the four surviving members of the band that created and performed this wonderful record.
Now I fully appreciate that we've sadly lost Allen, so any celebration was always going to have a Lanier-shaped hole built-in it right from the start, but from a practical viewpoint, an able deputy is available on hand to sub for him in the form of Richie Castellano.
Then after that set, the current incarnation of BOC could have gone onstage and done their thing, and at the very end, for Me262, they could have invited Albert and Joe back for "The Five Guitars"... OK, "The Six Guitars"...
Now THAT'S what SHOULD have happened...
But instead, they just invited Joe back to sing one song, and then leave the stage whilst the current band played the rest of the record he helped create and realise...
Same deal for Albert - except it was for the three songs he happened to sing on...
Albert thought it might be fun and accepted, whilst Joe declined...
I have to say that I can appreciate Joe's point of view on this... if put myself in his position, I might have done that also - I'd think: I'm not BOC's performing monkey, to be picked up and petted whenever it suits them, and chucked back in my box when they're done with me...
Again, I must reiterate - this is just my point of view and based on nothing other than a consideration of the known facts and public statements, together with a spot of empathy... but I strongly believe if BOC had gone about this AOF celebration the right way, they might have found Joe more willing to entertain the idea of being a part of it...
Here's some video from this show:
07/04/2016: BB King's Blues Club, NYC
Support: None
Setlist:
Blimey - I don't get angry very often, but today I am positively fuming...
Steve Schenck today has had ALL BOC concerts removed from dimeadozen and tradersden thus possibly fostering the beginnings of a thriving trade in BOC bootlegs for sale now that the "sharing community" sources have dried up...
This heavy-handed approach would seem to be a precursor to some sort of proposed release of "AOF with Albert" - in some form - and would seem to represent an attempt to wipe out access to all other versions available in the mistaken belief that if a fan already owns some wobbly bit of fan-shot footage or a home-made recording, then they will NOT want to buy the projected forthcoming "PRODUCT"...
This demonstrates a fundamental lack of understanding of how being a fan works - fans buy the official releases to support their band, no matter what - for example, even if you had a bootleg copy of Navy Pier, you still bought ALDN (even though it's a bit crap)... because that's what fans do...
The fact is - Dimeadozen has actually helped to promote BOC, and fostered and nurtured an interest in the band during some VERY lean times, so to do this now is not only completely misguided, it is also absolutely pathetic.
To suddenly come down all legal hot and heavy and ban ALL BOC concerts from dime just because you think - at long last - you might have something new to flog to BOC's beleaguered fans (who have had largely to subsist on all the "Greatest Hits" and "Best of" compilations down the years) is short-sighted and retrogressive, and crosses a line for me.
I am definitely not a happy camper at the moment....
BOC was at the Pima County Fair in Tucson, Arizona on Saturday April 16th. This was an outdoor show. Weather was sunny, windy, and a temp in the high 70's.
The band went on at 5:30PM and played for an hour. Quiet Riot followed at 7PM, but at a different smaller stage, with Ratt at 8:30 on the Main Stage.
Setlist:
A short set, but a nice jumbling of song order. The band was in high spirits and the sound was fantastic. True Confessions was introduced as an Allen Lanier song.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Sunday, April 17, 2016 started out like any other night. But it wasn't. Not at all like any other night indeed. Blue Oyster Cult was set to perform the Agents of Fortune Album in its entirety at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills with special guest founding member and former drummer (vocalist, guitarist, songwriter/lyrics and arrangement, and key contributing energy source) Albert Bouchard taking the stage with them.
A little about me: being 40 years old, I did not see BOC live during the original incarnation of the band, but have lived the music through all the studio work, live albums and concert experiences since 1998 and let me say the band has always been a thrill. Like I mentioned in other concert reviews I first heard about BOC because of the Veteran of the Psychic Wars song on the Heavy Metal soundtrack. Growing up in small town Kansas my parents listened to more top 40s, so my road into rock and roll was through movie soundtracks. In the early 90s, classic rock station Arrow 93 in Los Angeles exposed me to Burning for You, Don't Fear the Reaper and Godzilla and the realization that Blue Oyster Cult is very diverse and a band to get to know. So off my allowances I pursued ownership of every BOC album. First was Revolution By Night then Cult Classics then everything else. I was hooked. As a writer and sci fi fan I found myself engaged and alive within the material. Just wanted to provide a little about me before I went on to add some chops to my review.
As a fan and proud owner of all BOCs albums, live work and frequent concert goer, I had high expectations for this concert. I saw Utubes of the reunion concert in November 2012 and the magic that Al, Joe, Buck, Eric and Allen displayed on stage. The energy was undeniable. Al's drumming really inspired me in particular. It was like he was 20, the energy was sick. It was like he was born to drum Reaper. His rhythm and Buck's guitar screaming are a match made in guitar heaven. I see why they came together to collorate and start everything back in the late sixties. I watched this u-tube again on April 14 and just moments after I bought tickets for me and my good / best friend from high school Jason Bender to see BOC at the Saban on 4/17/16. I was amped. Finally a chance to see Albert sing Vera Gemini, Sinful Love and Debbie Denise live - all among my favorites (like Death Valley Nights and Cities on Flame). Plus hearing True Confessions, Morning Final, Tenderloin, and Tattoo Vampire live for the first time - what a treat.
After some good talk and catching up with my good buddy JB at Jones Pizza (recommended for LA dining of pizza and pasta and good drinks) we proceeded to the Saban. Seeing BOC atop the marquee was lovely. We went inside and grabbed a couple drinks, admired the merchandise table and went to our seats.
Moments later the fun began as Eric and the band came out and said hello to all of us Los Angeleans and announced they would be starting the night by performing the Agents of Fortune album in its entirely. Yes, awesome this meant a 2nd set of music. Woo hoo! The band erupted into Summer of Love. The energy, sound and attitude was higher than the last time we saw them at Saban in 2014 (if that was possible). It seemed the band was in a great place. Vocally, Eric was fresh and more powerful than last time. And the background vocals were so good. Kasim, Richie and Buck really stepped up for this one. Instrument sound - Bass, electric and drums were just professional perfection.
True Confessions was awesome. Buck's vocals on the Allen Lanier (RIP) classic were a tribute to Allen. He hit Allen's high note with ease. Loved it. Backing vocals energized and harmonic and instruments screaming as one.
The band proceeded into E.T.I., then stopped as I am not sure if it was an oversight or humor to go past Don't Fear the Reaper, but it was great either way as the band stopped and moved into Reaper. Every aspect of Reaper was great, still marveling at the attention the band has made toward the background vocal improvements.
E.T.I. featured more of the same greatness, including all of Eric's signature gestures to sell the vibe. Always an amazing showman. Incredibly underrated frontman. Buck's dazzling guitar great as always. E.T.I. closed and Eric then announced special guest Albert Bouchard. Then Al came out gray bearded and just awesome. I went nuts and shouted "Yeah!" in a rocker's growl and the band proceeded into Revenge of Vera Gemini. Albert sounded great. The energy was electric. I felt the rebel rock punk vibe that amplified the Agents of Fortune punch. The chorus had me singing along, "oh no more horses horses, I'm gonna swim like a fish. Into the hole in which you planned to ditch me my lovely Vera Marie". It was awesome. And live, with Buck's screaming guitar, the thorough drumming, the pounding bass, and the quality backing vocals. My God, it was good. It was so cool when the crowd cheered afterwards and Albert said, "Aw schucks". So cool.
Sinful Love only magnified the punk rock attitude of Vera Gemini as Albert's vocals and energy dazzled the room. During a guitar solo Albert ran over and strummed his guitar side by side with Buck. I marvelled at the thought of these 2 guys being the genesis of the band and here 49+ years later rocking on stage side by side bonding through musicianship - what a great life. Headlining in the 70s and still having fun in 2016. Albert was all smiles running back to the mike and delivering the lyrics with authority and heart - what Al does like only Al can. What I love about BOC is that Al, Eric, Buck, Joe and Allen all could sing, each were sonically distinct and that each of their styles evoke different emotions. What a band.
The crowd was a mix of rowdy and subdued, perhaps due to the mixed age of the audience.
Albert stayed on stage during the slash metal-esque Tattoo Vampire. Eric took the mike with power and attitude and Albert did background vocals moving his hand back and forth on his throat to the the vibrating Vampire sound. So cool. So creative. Kasim's bass, Buck electric guitar and Jules' drums were the perfect compliment to this thunderous rendition. It was neat seeing Albert smile over to Kasim about the Vampire vocal effect. Nice to see the commoroderie. Epic.
Moving on to Morning Final, Richie took on the vocal duties and performed the song very good. To me Joe is a legend so anyone taking this song on - or any Joe song on for that matter - is viewed with much scrutiny. Richie's performance soothed the absence of Joe for me alot. They have such a great diverse band mate in Richie. What a find by Eric and Buck. Admittingly, deep down in my heart I was really hoping to hear Joe do Morning Final and for Joe to perform bass with Al on drums as the rhythm portion of the band at least once this night. Someday I hope to see that at least once. But I understand that sometimes for whatever reason things just don't materialize for a plethora of reasons. The background vocals again were awesome. It was great hearing Al, Kasim and Buck doing background vocals for the song. My God it was sooo melodiously good.
Tenderloin was next - another personal favorite of mine. Man, Allen sure can write a narrative. Eric was thunderous and deliberate in this psychedelic rebel rock classic, Buck's solo was awesome, the bass and drums rocked and the backing vocals of Albert, Kasim and Buck were so pitch perfect - a smooth blend of all the right octaves. This is a chemically sound band right now. I hope for more Albert, BOC collaborations as Al brings such passion and energy to this already solid band. It was great hearing Al on cowbell and assisting on drums and symbals. Overall sound was so good. RIP Allen - you would be proud of what your band pulled off on 4/17/16. What a love fest of musical prodigy.
Debbie Denise brought Agents of Fortune to a strong but melodious close with Albert singing an autobiographical song to the audience. Although written by Patti Smith this was undeniably what life on the road for the Oyster Boys must have been like from the beginning, through the big venue days to the present. This song and In Thee always humble me with tones of space, time and distance. Albert's lead, Buck's guitar, the rhythm section and the backing vocals really sealed the deal for me. I love when Al sang "I was out rolling with my rock n roll band", "I was out rolling with this band", "I was rock n rolling with my band" and "I was out rolling with my rock n roll band" making it explicitly narrative.
Everyone sounded so great, Albert with the band. Made me cry a little as my grandmother died on April 2, 2016 at 88 years old on her farmstead in Jennings, KS and I felt blessed to be alive for the moment of seeing Albert, Buck and Eric onstage, recapturing just a taste of the magic of the mid-late 70s BOC. I'll never get another talk with Grandma Norma Marie Bailey but at least I saw Albert, Eric and Buck take the stage at least once. Bucket list checked.
After a short break the second set began and did not disappoint as BOC went right into Dominance & Submission. The delivery was powerful, with thunderous vocals, hard hitting drums and screaming guitar. A highlight is Eric singing Dominance with the crowd singing Submission. It's always a crowd pleaser.
The band then played an energetic Burnin' for You. It was cool to see a pretty blond standing and dancing to the melody. Must have been what the Fire of Unknown Origin concert days felt like. After the soothing swing of Burnin' for You was over the band moved on to an uncompromising Career of Evil. It was rebel, with teeth and hard hitting. Eric then asked if we wanted Shooting Shark or Harvest Moon. It was a tie so the band went with Shooting Shark. It was as polished a version as I've heard before, the arrangement enhanced - just as all of these tunes were on that mystical night.
Vigil was next and was a good contrast to the soothing Shooting Shark with the in-your-face opening guitar riff and dazzling guitar solos. The band seemed so young and fresh and alive. Buck's Boogie would continue this high energy. It also kept all the pretty girls dancing and everyone entertained.
Next Eric Bloom gave the narrative introduction to Black Blade and the band performed it hard-hitting as ever. Godzilla would follow - without the Kasim bass intro solo, perhaps for time's sake - then Richie on Hot Rails to Hell. Then the band went into their classic ME262, speed demon rocker track which led into 5 Guitars as Albert would join them in the middle of the stage on his guitar and play away. It was a sight to see - Eric, Buck and Albert - the founders doing what they do, bringing the rock. They would then bow and wave to the crowd. Eric said good night and the band waved and left.
The crowd would not stop cheering and clapping. I shouted "we want more", then the crowd shouted "BOC". Then I noticed something. In the dark they were bringing out a second drumset. I turned to my friend Jason and said, "They're going to do Cities On Flames. We get to see Al on drums". I nearly lost it. Sure enough it was to come.
Albert came out in his short sleeve shirt all smiles and said, "Wow, Amazing", to hearing the cheers. He smiled to Eric then to Buck taking in the moment. He then asked "Jules you ready?" to Jules to and the band, then said "Ok let's do it. 1-2-3-4", then started druming the intro to Cities on Flames. The look on Al and Buck's face indicated it was awesome for them to be performing this together. Al led on drums with Jules playing back up drums. Al sounded great on vocals and drums, pounding them with hard authority, solid rhythm and passion. Buck smiled digging the moment, I think he knew the synergy Al brings with him and Eric when he is present. Al's energy is so electric.
The Rock and Roll audience participation part was awesome, the drum duels were awesome, Buck's guitar solo 2/3s in was awesome as ever, staying true to previous live powerrock performances. Drumming was awesome, Kasim running around on stage. Eric hitting Jules symbals. Richie adding his guitar in doing a 4 man guitar duel with Buck, Eric and Kasim. Albert was beeming with smiles, Eric thanked everyone for coming and the band pulled together for a final bow then waved and bid good night. It was the greatest BOC experience ever for me.
Looking forward to the next big top BOC concert. Will have to see what new surprises are in store from the greatest act out of Long Island New York. Thanks again to all for a great concert!!!
There is going to be an additional performance of AGENTS OF FORTUNE on Monday, April 18th.
Blue Oyster Cult will be taping a 40th Anniversary AOF episode of AUDIENCE MUSIC for AT&T/DIRECTV at RED Studios in Hollywood CA
The show will be available later this year via the following outlets:
Blue Ocean Music Hall
Salisbury, MA (USA)
May 6, 2016
**Danny Miranda on bass
**Dan Lawson Band (opener)
Set list:
The BOC/April Wine show on May 14th in Riverside IA was a great show. Sold out in advance btw.
Here was the BOC setlist:
Both bands did one hour sets (typical casino times) and were both well received. April Wine opened.
I attended the Blue Oyster Cult concert in Coleman, Michigan last night. Here is the concert setlist:
Concert lasted an hour and a half. Bassist Kasem Sultan was absent- in his place a young blond-haired man that Eric Bloom introduced as Eddie Askaluce (sp ?) (sounded like he said Aska- Loose).
Warm day, slight breeze, enthusiastic crowd.
BLUE OYSTER CULT honor the life and music of ALLEN LANIER.
Special guest appearances by JOE BOUCHARD and ALBERT BOUCHARD.
We lost our dear friend and band mate Allen Lanier to complications from COPD in 2013.
As we approach Allen's 70th birthday (June 25th) we are going to salute him by devoting the first set of the 3rd and final "Reaper Residency" show at BB Kings in NYC on June 17th to Allen's musical legacy.
Please join us as we celebrate the words and music of ALLEN GLOVER LANIER.
A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to the AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION in Allen's memory.
Maria Molito Q104 DJ kick off
Buck & Eric intro Bouchards
First Set [ Buck/Eric/Richie/Kasim/Jules ]
* 2 backup singers (one was Richie's wife)
Second Set [ Buck/Eric/Richie/Kasim/Jules ]:
The very first song was Albert and Joe performing "Ravens" off of Albert's solo album. He wrote it for Allen. They performed it with Albert on acoustic and Joe and piano.
Then Richie/Kasim/Jules joined the Bouchards for "Dance the Night Away" with Albert on vocals. Joe stayed on the piano and Richie played lead guitar.
For the encore, they pulled a mean/clever trick. They started Hot Rails and I was waiting for Joe to come on stage and instead Richie started singing and I was so pissed. HOW COULD THIS BE HAPPENING?!?!? DID JOE LEAVE?!?!?!?
But it was a brilliant misdirection as they sneaked Joe on from the opposite end of the stage while all eyes were on Richie at the other end. Then Joe took over with the second verse to much applause.
Pretty clever. Except for the part where I almost lost my mind thinking Joe wasn't going to do Hot Rails! Haha.
All in all, it was an amazing show. I heard so many songs I'd never heard live before, the tribute to Allen was great, and I got to see Joe and Albert sing their signature BOC songs on stage with Buck and Eric for the first time in my life.
What a great night.
Oh, and Albert played Allen's guitar on Cities on Flame. As in his actual, physical guitar.
Does anyone know who the second backing singer was?
Her name is Nicole Taubman!
17/06/2016: BB King's Blues Club, NYC
Support: None
Set 1:
Set 2:
BOC at the brand new House of Rock in Santa Rosa,CA. Santa Rosa is about an hour north of San Francisco in the Napa wine country. This is a place for young kids to learn how to rock. BOC was the second band to play. Quiet Riot played the night before. Nice big stage, with an ego ramp down the center.
A pair of paternal twins opened the show under the name of V2 (Victor and Vinchenzo) get it, V2, Ha-Ha. Their bass player was "Frankenstein" a guy in a mask. I suspect it was their father or another older relative. I also suspect their family built this place especially for them. A lot of old money in this part of the world. These kids rocked!! Very good.
There seemed to be an issue with Jules' monitor. There was a delay of about 20 minutes. Boo! There goes the possibility of a long show. I have had it with opening bands at BOC shows. There always seems to be a f'ing problem. 70-100 bucks a ticket should have bought us a longer set. I do not blame the group. I blame the faulty monitor.
The guys hit the stage around 9:35. They then proceed to rock for a very appreciative audience. Give it up for Santa Rosa. Don't Turn Your Back was an unexpected treat. A very metal ME 262. No solos during Godzilla. Folks started clapping along to Buck's noodle immediately, with no prompting from Jules. Great version of Reaper! Excellently performed show from start to finish.
Thanks for the night of rock! See you guys in Plymouth,CA in a couple of weeks. This winery show is very expensive. How about something unique, Psychic Wars maybe? Subhuman perhaps? See You in Black? Pretty please!!!
BOC in the wine country! Plymouth is an hour East, then south from Sacramento.
A beautiful drive to the western Sierra Nevada foothills. It is also at the northern tip of the Amador county wine region.
This place has a tiny amphitheater on the premises. It can hold around 300-400 people. I would guess there was 300 for BOC.
Tiered sides with a lawn in the middle. Plus a dance pit in front of the stage. Great sound system, clear and loud.
What a ripping rock show this was! The guys were on fire! So nice to see them tearing it up on a stage with trees and vineyards behind them. Lips in the Hills was appropriate.
Thanks for the rocking good time! BOC!!
Set list:
This was always going to be a gig that took the breath away.
The Royal Gorge is a 1,250 feet canyon rising above the Arkansas River near Canon City, Colorado. After entering through the Visitors Center, the walk to the Elk Park Amphitheater takes you over the suspension bridge that traverses the deep canyon. Stunning views, especially with the sun coming down over the vast Colorado panorama.
The small stage was isolated from the crowd by a stream with stoned-lined banks. With a walkway across to the stage, it had the appearance of a mini-moat. So, as the crowd looked down from the hill across the moat, the Game of Thrones introduction heralded the arrival of the band all dressed in black.
There was a strong beginning to a set that increased in intensity as the night approached. The sound was crisp in the high altitude. Eric introduced Burning For You with the question, "where were you in 1981 when this one came out?" (Answer: The Venue near Victoria Station to see the Soft White Underbelly).
As often the case, the overall energy on stage and in the crowd picked up as the band got into the more-guitar orientated, middle section of the set. The Vigil and Last Days were terrific and it was a surprise to see Lips In The Hills make a welcome appearance between them. Buck came across the walkway towards the crowd during the Cities on Flame finale.
The encore break was just a few seconds. As Eric explained, "Life's too short, we need to play some more right away." I had received some sad news from the UK just before the gig started so the atmosphere for me during the gig was somewhat poignant, but also a time to reflect on how lucky to still have the chance to see this great band. "On Tour Forever" - thanks Oyster Boys!
Setlist:
Damn - this is a post I never ever thought I'd be making - I thought he was indestructible...
This is the hardest post that I've ever had to write. It still doesn't feel real. I lost my daddy, Sam Judd, today. He was my best friend and a kindred spirit.
For any of you finding out via Facebook, I'm sorry. I don't have everyone's phone numbers and I know he kept in touch with so many of you through here.
We're still figuring out arrangements and details and grieving. Message me for my phone number if you want to get in touch with me.
Daddy, I'm going to miss you more than I can ever put into words.
This is terrifically sad and I still can't quite take it in, to be honest. Sam Judd was the best friend I ever had that I never actually got to meet in person...
The website you're currently now on owes much of its existence to the hard work, inspiration and encouragement of Sam...
As Sam himself might have said: just damn...
Eric Bloom posted these thoughts on his FB page:
My life-long friend Sam Judd passed earlier today. He worked on my side of the stage for BOC for many years, mostly during our earliest years in the 70's into the 80's.
BOC fans will know him as an expert on our history and several of his stories are posted on the Hot Rails to Hull site.
He was my go-to guy for all discussion on politics, science, physics and aviation.
We talked a few days ago and he wasn't ill or had any unusual health complaints so this was a sudden, shocking event.
My best wishes go out to his family and other friends of which he had many. We lost a great, bright guy who will be missed by all.
Tonight's performance in Omaha was dedicated to Sam.
Buck posted this note on his own site:
It is with great sadness we learned today of Sam Judd's passing. He played a huge role in the band's early years and the climb to success and fame.
And there's no one of the many people that have been a part of the band's history that have sustained more love and respect than Sam.
Through the advent of the internet we all remained close and in regular contact with him.
Our hearts go out to Margo and Rosie, and his entire family and friends.
Tonight in Omaha we dedicated DFTR to Sam.
Joe:
I pains me greatly to relay the message that our long time roadie/stage tech/therapist/historian and much more has passed away.
Sam Judd was the man. Kept me smiling on the road and beyond for many years... (deep sigh!)
All the Blue Oyster Cult family will miss him greatly. Our deep condolences to his family and friends.
On the gofundme page that was set up to help the family in the wake of Sam's untimely passing, there was a nice tribute to Sam that I think captured the mood:
Sam Judd crossed the rainbow bridge yesterday, July 20, 2016, while asleep at home. A loving husband and dad, Sam, in the kitchen, as many know, could whip up a batch of awesome!
His legacy on the road with Blue Oyster Cult and Atlanta's own Hydra will live on, especially every time any of us orders from a "take out" menu... who would know how much fun that could be with Sam, back in the day!
All who knew him, have their own "Sam Judd" stories to share. Sam said that he was attracted to ALL things that shook the earth --- big engined race cars and Rock & Roll! Tennessee Sam's mission was to bring "loud ass rock and roll," to the world, and that, he did!
We are making an appeal for your donation, however small or large, to assist Sam's family. We would like to offer this to them soonest.
There will be a Celebration of Life event, and that information is forthcoming. We hope you will all be able to join us for that occasion.
Our numbers are dwindling. We have lost so many of our musical heroes and talented entertainers in 2016. Sam Judd was always a star, a dedicated professional and a loyal friend to all!
May his larger-than-life personality and laughter inspire us all to enjoy our simple lives.
Part of the story of Sam's time with BOC can be seen here:
I've spent a good portion of today just reading over all my old emails with Sam - lots of them were to do with batches of information and memories he'd send me for inclusion on the site and he was initially skeptical whether or not anyone would be interested in reading any of his old road stories - I couldn't help but notice how he ended his first email containing the start of his story:
I tend to ramble a bit, but it might possibly be of some interest to someone.... somewhere...
Ever the master of the understatement, I just wish he was rambling still...
DFTR Sam...
As Sam himself might have said: Just damn...
:-(
From the July 20, 2016 show at the Baxter Arena in Omaha, Nebraska:
Foghat: 7:00-7:45
Blue Oyster Cult: 8:15-8:50
Boston: 9:30-11:30
Blue Oyster Cult setlist:
I can confirm that the above setlist is complete and accurate.
I've seen a poster for this gig on eBay which consists of a large colour live shot of Foghat, with a massive "Foghat" logo running across the top, and a much smaller "Blue Oyster Cult" at the bottom. That's a bit of a strange one, when you look at the actual band running order for this gig...
Setlist:
Local band Red Baron supported.
Just when you thought the week couldn't get any worse, these messages started appearing on Facebook:
It is with deep sadness that I share the news that Sandy Pearlman passed away peacefully at 12:30am this morning in Marin County, California.
A celebration in honor of Sandy's life will be held soon.
On behalf of Sandy's friends, thank you for the love and support you showed and shared for him over the past several months.
Sandy Pearlman, poet, writer, songwriter, producer, manager, professor, polymath, visionary, passed peacefully, surrounded by love, at 12:30 am, July 26, 2016, in Marin County, California.
A celebration of his exceptional life will be announced later.
Thanks to all who gave to Sandy Pearlman's support fund but unfortunately he passed last night. We got the word that it was peaceful.
I met Sandy in 1968 when I did the sound for SWU at the Electric Circus in NYC on Thanksgiving Day. In the Spring of 1969 he approached me to front the band.
He was the creator, mentor, early manager, occasional lyricist of what became BOC and he penned the name.
He got us our record deal with Columbia Records. He wrote the lyrics to ETI, ME-262, Cities On Flame and many more.
He produced several albums. He certainly changed the path of my life. He had a brilliant mind, could discuss almost any topic and recently was lecturing at McGill University.
Rest in Peace.
I knew it was coming. I couldn't picture the way he was when I last talked to him. He was more than a mentor to me. He was my intellectual father figure.
We liked each other the first time we met. I can see it like yesterday, upstairs in Joan's house. We were completely different. I said I loved him. I said goodbye.
Sandy Pearlman died today. For the world he was the visionary inventor, manager, lyric writer, and producer of Blue Oyster Cult. He also managed and/or produced many other musical artists like The Clash, The Dictators, Black Sabbath, on and on.
He was also the real character behind the Christopher Walken character in the infamous SNL "More Cowbell" skit. But you can read all about this in the many articles on Sandy today in the music press.
For me, personally, he was this incredibly smart, fascinating guy who I met at 19 years old when I moved into the BOC band house in 1971. Sandy and I hit it off right away. I worked in a bookstore and was an avid reader with an inquisitive mind.
When we were together we didn't talk music, we talked about books. He turned me onto Colin Wilson, HP Lovecraft, and Algernon Blackwood. He was particularly interested in Colin Wilson and I quickly read everything of his I could find. Sandy was my mentor and I think that he enjoyed steering me in my literary explorations.
Very sorry that Sandy has left us. He was a brilliant man and gave much to many artists while making careers for them. He will be missed.
Thank you Sandy for your many contributions to the world of Rock & Roll!
No words , he discovered me...
I was lucky too... Most best memories, I think are last minute. There are also good ones like the one I had.
Robert Duncan PAID!!! me to do an interview at his company in SF - 50, 60, about, people there..maybe more... Sat on a raised little stage, facing each other at angles, like the Dick Cavett show... Sandy in front row, ever present baseball hat on Gave him a TON of SHIT for being a Giants fan when back in the day he LOVED THE DODGERS!... LOOK at the DICTATORS baseball jackets!!!...
Anyway, Sandy was responding out loud at times out, and we went back and forth more than a few times to the audience's delight.
A WONDERFUL last memory for me as well.
I'd like to extend my warmest sympathies to the family and friends of a man who was a visionary in the music industry, my first manager, Sandy Pearlman who passed away the other day.
He was the one along with his partner Steve Schenck who was responsible for starting off my career in 1982.
I will always remember him. Thank you Sandy, Rest In Peace.
It feels like an era is ending, somehow...
BLUE OYSTER CULT announce first ever appearance in Ireland.
Band to play AGENTS OF FORTUNE album in full and more.
In celebration of the 40th anniversary since the original 1976 release of "AGENTS OF FORTUNE" on Columbia Records, the Long Island rockers will be jetting in from NYC to play their first ever show in Ireland on July 28th at the Academy in Dublin. The show will feature the complete 'Agents' album, plus a full set of powerful classics from a back catalogue spanning over four decades.
Commented the band, "It's seems unbelievable that after 44 years on tour we've never played Ireland. Having waited a lifetime to play there, we are extremely excited to be presenting this very special show for our debut live performance".
Agents of Fortune, Blue OYSTER Cult's platinum-selling fourth studio album, included the hit single "(Don't Fear) The Reaper", arguably still one of the most haunting and recognised tracks in rock history.
The band features core original members Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser (guitar, vocals) and Eric Bloom (guitar, keyboards, vocals), with a very special guest appearance from co-founding member Albert Bouchard (percussion, guitar, vocals) who was instrumental in writing the early material. The legendary line-up is completed by Richie Castellano (guitar, keyboards, vocals), Kasim Sulton (bass, vocals) and Jules Radino (drums, percussion), bringing a relentless and unrivalled energy to the stage.
BOC have been a major heavy metal influence on many other acts, such as Metallica, and were listed in VH1's countdown of the greatest hard rock bands of all time.
Tickets go on sale on Friday 24 May at 10am via www.ticketmaster.ie
This was the very epitome of Classic Rock. A former stadium band now playing smaller venues but tonight returning to the big stage. Could they recapture former glories?
I met my son Scott at 5pm. Born in 1991 he had missed the golden years but had been a fan since he was a few weeks old. We headed straight to the nearest tavern which luckily was two doors down from the venue. Not so luckily the place had had a revamp since I was last there with Mouse during his famous cardigan wearing incident at a Lynyrd Skynyrd concert and they were now charging £10.70 for two pints.
We sat for 2 hours and I was pleased to learn Scott had been listening to loads of BOC prior to the gig and was well into Agents of Fortune etc. A hardened festival goer he had just returned from seeing Radiohead in Portugal, so there was plenty to talk about. The bar started to fill up with fans and there was a huge array of t-shirts all bearing the BOC logo. We spoke to several of them and there was this amazing buzz of anticipation.
7pm, doors about to open, let's make a move and get a good spot in the "Buck Zone".
What the hell is this? There's a queue from the doors, round the back of the building, down the road and into the next street. There are ticket touts asking to buy spare tickets. We trudged to the end of the queue and swapped stories with a guy and his wife who had seen them in the '70's. Loads more t-shirts everywhere.
We're in. Get a t-shirt, get a beer then fight for a good space. About 10 rows back with a great view of the whole stage. Perfect.
This was the venue we saw them at in October 1992 but today it is jammed packed and sold out to the maximum. This is the first time at a BOC gig I've had to queue for the toilets!!!!
We'd been told it would start at 8.15 sharp and they were not far out. Here they come. Eric - "We are going to play our 1976 album Agents of Fortune" and off they go.
Summer and Confessions went by so fast and then a slight pause amongst huge cheers. Reaper was majestic and beautifully played followed by a terrific ETI which really got the crowd singing. Then, movement from the back, huge cheers, a man steps up to the microphone, his guitar is painted with the Agents album cover, "It's been too long" he says "Too fucking long" and Albert launches into Vera & Sinful love. Excellent.
They finished the album with Tattoo a highlight and then time for a 10 minute break and a queue for the loo. I suppose the only negative was that Eric clearly wasn't as pleased to see Albert as everybody else was and decided to be Mr Grumpy all night. They won't be sitting together on the plane home. Clearly still some friction there.
OK we are back and this was clearly the time for a classic rock band to shine by playing eh... their classic rock. Did they nail it? Did they flunk it? Did the fans go home happy?
Oh yeah. The crowd were brilliant all night and all though there weren't too many youngsters in and the average age of the mostly male audience must have been in the 60's they all went home happy.
Starting with Dominance, they got the lighting rig going and the sing along bit at the end set the tone for another sing along at the start of Golden Age. O'D'd next followed by a hugely well received Burning for You. Harvest Moon, The Vigil and Lips in the Hills - they were really in the swing now weren't they - no just getting started.
Buck's Boogie took it up a notch and Last Days of May sent it into the stratosphere. Lovely normal beginning before Ritchie soars into an amazing solo before being brought down to earth by BOC's lead guitarist who showed him he still has a little way to go. Must have been 10 minutes of pure joy.
A moment to recover then Eric walks forward "How about a little Hot Rails" he says. We agree and then finally a rip roaring Godzilla without losing the momentum by the bass and drum solos. Good to see they've been dropped. Hang on Albert's back and a curious almost honky tonk piano heralds ME262 which ends in the 5 guitars (Jules has really got to get himself a guitar too).
Time for the last number and we wonder how they are to fill the void by not having Reaper to call on. Fear not they bring back Born To Be Wild complete with lights, formation high kicking, the rubbing of the guitar necks with the strobe light and a huge flash bang finish. CLASSIC ROCK!!!!
Back they come to a huge ovation. Eric gives a nice tribute to Allen, Sandy and long term roadie Sam Judd who also recently died. Especially for Allen they play In Thee whilst another drum kit is pushed onto the stage in the background. Lights go down. Albert moves to the back and sits behind his kit. Lights go up. Cities on Flame with Albert singing and you have the perfect ending.
Such a great show. Were they saying goodbye to the UK? Was this the last time we will see them on these shores? Who knows, but if it was the last time they went out with a bang.
Much of the show is now available on facebook/youtube. Obviously you don't get the real atmosphere and sound quality but it's well worth a look. Especially Last Days of May.
Thought I'd give you some of my thoughts on the London concert - though those of 'Imaginos' have all the essentials covered really.
My experience wasn't quite as good as his however... I had booked 'Seats' on the Balcony. I was aware they were unreserved - I was aware the venue opening @ 7.00pm - what I didn't account for however was the fact that they oversold these places quite significantly. It was standing room only on the balcony by the time we got in there - no seats at all (there was also a roped off VIP area which made me wonder whether I'd been bumped for this as I actually booked one the first day tickets became available......) anyway, neither me or Renee my wife are 6ft+ people so we had a 'restricted view' to say the least. It has occurred to me to demand a refund of both/either the venue or the promoters - I haven't done anything as yet and hand on heart I probably can't be bothered in what I suspect will be a waste of 2 stamps. To add to the misery the further back (up) you went in the venue the stiflingly hotter it got - no a/c. Quite what it would have been like a week before when the heatwave was in full swing I dread to think.
Anyway... highlights:- Albert's joie de vivre was a sight to behold. You will have seen the videos by now... Vera Gemini and Sinful Love/Tattoo Vampire were just superb. Albert I feel brings a bit of rock'n'roll maverick to an otherwise 'straight' 2OC... the soul of the band that is sorely missed IMHO. His delight at just being there was a joy to see, it really was, I was glad for him.
I might have selected a slightly different setlist and maybe Astronomy might have been an appropriate addition after the death of Sandy Pearlman... I would always prefer a BOC concert to contain 'I love The Night' and' Shooting Shark' but hell, I'm not going to quibble too much... the return of the crossed guitars and five guitars were just excellent - something I thought had been consigned to the 70's and that was that.
Overall I'm very glad to have been there - are suggested elsewhere - was it their UK swansong? - but I'm also very glad all is available to watch on youtube for me to savour in some comfort. The (previous...) last concert I went to was Blue Coupe, so I've retired again, maybe for the last time... being 60 and in some discomfort for the sake of rock'n'roll are maybe not compatible afterall.
Oh well... I've had a good run.
The Rock of Ages Festival was in Seebronn and not Balingen (the Bang Your Head Festival is in Balingen).
It was an outdoor show :-)
Running order of the festival:
Cucumber, Blackslash, Lucifer's Friend, Treat, Chris Thompson, Ken Hensley & Our Propaganda, Magnum, Blue Öyster Cult, Avantasia (last band)
Homepage:
The setlist is complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
Please note: the correct city name is: Pratteln
Regarding BÖC's first ever concert in Norway, in Drammen 02 Aug 2016, the correct info is:
Buck posted the following update on his forum:
I'm in Helsinki near the end of the 12 day Euro run. It's been a great trip with fine shows and wonderful fan response. We had a little excitement yesterday traveling from Hamburg to Copenhagen.
SAS airlines failed to fly our gear and baggage from Hamburg to Copenhagen yesterday. So we did the gig with the hire company's amps and guitars. After a rental Les Paul crapped out (bridge pickup stopped working as soon as the show started,) I wound up playing the show with a $200 Epiphone bolt-on neck Les Paul, and none of my floor pedals or echos. A Roland ME-50 was pressed into service for a little sauce and drive.
You can perform with anything. If you have to.. : )
We did get the gear back today to go to Helsinki, except for Eric's SG, which should make Helsinki by show time.
The set list this night was:
This was the 3rd BÖC gig in Finland (once in the 80's, 1998 and now 2016). The Band seemed happy, venue seemed packed, happy mixed age crowd, all merch was sold out and nice review in the nations biggest newspaper (Helsingin Sanomat).
Definately one of the best gigs this year for myself.
Sam Judd's memorial will be Sunday, August 7 at 4pm until 8pm at Vinyl; 1374 West Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta, Georgia...
Please wear your fav tee-shirt and share YOUR Sam Judd story! Music and celebration for that guy that took our hears with him!
I will see you ALL there... Loree
Sam Judd. The After Party. Great name and quite appropriate.
So I finally arrived at Center Stage. The party was in Vinyl, the lounge next to it. I got a kick out of that, as most know Sam hated vinyl records. Called it "rock on a stick" technology. Kindofa dingy, dumpy little place. Unassuming. Perfect.
I instantly spotted Joe and Albert, and everyone's fave, SS. I milled about a bit, not really knowing anyone but Fred Bieser, got a beer, and started making the rounds.
I had a fine time with Joe and Albert, but this isn't about me or them. Rosie didn't really remember me, although we'd met when Sam and her came to the Fox years ago. Katie remembered me. I had never met Margot. A very quiet woman, unlike the very loud Sam. A more broken hearted lady I have never seen. We talked and hugged a couple times. I made her laugh once. What more could be done?
There was Asian catering, with stuff Sam loved, and it was pretty good. No Brandy Ho's, but the pot stickers rocked, as did a few other things.
Rosie spoke with great difficulty, and then played what was called Sam's Playlist. A group of songs very important to The Culo, and really, the only thing he insisted on at such a gathering. Printouts with all the lyrics, which were what was most important to Sam were handed out.
The Setlist:
Then anyone that wanted to was invited to speak. No one was moving, and I hate awkward moments, so I went first to break the ice. It was kinda funny, because out of the people there, I was the one almost no one knew. But that struck me as the whole point. Most of these people had no idea how many people Sam had befriended beyond the family sphere.
I introduced myself, and told them of how we came to be friends, and of the vast network of cyber family that so loved his contributions to everyday chatter. I suggested that if everyone that wished they could be there was, we would need a much bigger room.
EB had sent me an email with a couple paragraphs he wanted me to read as he couldn't be there. It was an honor to do so:
Hi Dave, in Germany today. If you don't mind, I'd like you to say a few of my words for the 'celebrants' of Sam's life. We will be in Finland.
Wish I could be there. I'm in Europe working. Over the years Sam and I stayed close, mostly by phone. Often something would catch my eye in the news, something about aviation, CERN, NASA, something I knew I had to discuss with somebody who shared my interest and that somebody was Sam. I was also on the famous receiving end of his mailing list about a plane being recommissioned or a German tank getting fixed up or some such.
I called him a few days before his passing because I had a question about the NASA Juno project and when we could expect video. I knew he was the go-to guy with the answer. And he had it. He explained the lag time and the testing of the variety of satellite components and it would take months.
When those videos come in I'll reach for the phone to talk to him and I'll miss him terribly.
But this event is a celebration of his life. He was a very funny guy. All you had to do was have a meal with him to know that. And I had plenty of those. I can still see him mopping his brow eating quite nuclear Hunan food at Brandy Ho's in San Francisco.
One of my favorite anecdotes was when we were rehearsing at Fillmore East in New York City and took a break. I walked down 2nd Avenue and saw Sam coming towards me with a greek souvlaki (a gyro) in each hand. I said "You're really diggin' them souvlaki's, ain't you Sam? (using his drawl). He replied "Goddam right! Sixth one I had today!"
He was a special guy. Everyone here knows it. My best wishes to Sam's family, Margot Rosie and Katrina and his sisters.
Eric Bloom
I made sure the family knew of y'all and how much we adored Sam and what he had to say to us. There were some good stories. Most there just didn't like speaking publicly. But stories there were. Dale Shelton. Ricky Reyer. People I'd never heard of. Albert had a couple funny stories, about Sam, still working for Hydra, arranging to meet Robert Fripp, and going to his room backstage to find him playing his guitar sitting on a stool. Naked. You had to be here.
Then it was time. Albert, Joe and his ladyfriend onstage. Joe on acoustic, his girl, Joan, on electric, Albert on a bongo-like thing. Astronomy, Burnin' and Reaper. Excellent. I got most of Astronomy, Sam's all time favorite BOC song on my camera video. I hope it came out. I hope I can get it where y'all can see it. There was a video screen by the stage scrolling a montage of pictures, and I pointed at the screen for the most part while the music played. Not easy. And then it was over.
Sam "Culo" Judd was an amazing man. Seriously. Unbelievable intellect. Solid family values. Ridiculous sense of humor and irony. He enriched my life like few before. He left a legacy of love for all to see. The outpouring of awe and respect for the man was like nothing I've ever experienced.
I was indeed... uplifted.
Setlist:
I was the gig promoter for this event; Mark Owen of Owen Productions, LLC in Shreveport, Louisiana.
Eric Bloom remembered playing in this historic building many years ago. The building was the once made famous by the words, "Elvis has left the building".
We had an enthusiastic crowd and a great night.
Here's the set list for the Payomet Music Pavilion show in North Truro, MA last evening:
The band appeared to be using a rented backline for their gear for this show.
"Blues for Provincetown (P-Town)" began as Eric telling a story about when he lived in Provincetown, Massachusetts (a nearby town to the venue) in 1968 for which the band played a blues backing track while he "sang" the story. This lasted 3-4 minutes.
This was a highly enthusiastic crowd. The venue is a large tent which Eric referred to the set as being like a private party for us. It was worth the 4 hour trip each way.
I had to catch a shuttle so walked out during Cities. I don't know if they played the 2x ending, or anything after. Eric said "1 more" and Marshall Tucker was coming on next. But rest is spot on...
Danny on bass...
20 August 2016
Milford Oyster Festival
Milford
Connecticut
*** Danny Miranda on bass for Kasim Sulton
Here's the set list for the August 25, 2016 BOC show in Oshkosh Wisconsin.
BOC played the Osh Gosh, Wisconsin Waterfest on Thursday August 25th. The outdoor amphitheater and grass lawn were really very nice.
Local band The Pocket Kings went on first and they were very good. The Greg Rolie Band (Greg is a founding member of Santana and then Journey) went on next playing classic Santana songs. They were excellent.
BOC came on about 8:45. Danny Miranda was on bass.
Setlist:
Another excellent show!
August 26th - Skokie Backlot Bash
Lineup #1 (w/ Danny Miranda on bass), outdoor show
Here's the setlist from last night:
The lineup was lineup 1, with Danny Miranda on bass, and this was an outdoor performance,
BOC played the Skokie, Illinois Backlot Bash street festival on Friday, August 26.
The stage was set up on right on Oakton Avenue.
They came on at 8:30. Danny Miranda again on bass.
Setlist:
Nothing like a BOC two-fer (two nights in a row, two different states)
I bought a cowbell at Harbor Freight Tools that morning and was lucky to get Ritchie, Buck, Danny and Eric (saying "I don't sign cowbells" as he signed it) after the show.
Here is the set list for this show I received from a friend who was there:
Moonshine Junkies opened for the East Durham show 9/17.
No opening act and the show started right at 20:00. The hall was full and the crowd was loud and ready to rock and the band did not disappoint. The setlist had some some great variety for the true fan.
This was my 6th time seeing BOC and my 18 year old son's first and he had a blast. We made the trek across the border from Ottawa to New York State to catch the show.
The band was very tight and in sync all night. What really struck me this time around was how strong the harmonies are with Richie and Kasim. Jules and Kasim held down the bottom end in lock step all night long. Jules was energetic and steady and Kasim really shone on Shooting Shark with the slap bass style.
Eric was resplendent in his Roswell shirt and gave a shout to all the Canadian fans who made the trip across the border. He told tales of the band house in the late '60's and dedicated Reaper to Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. His voice was strong all night long. Richie was a revelation for us.
Whether he was tickling the ivories, playing rhythm, sharing leads with Buck on Shooting Shark and Last Days of May or taking the lead vocal on Hot Rails, Richie was looked like he was having more fun that the anyone in the hall.
And Buck? He's the master of fluidity and seemingly effortless playing. The notes just flowed from like aural candy from his Steinberger. Quite simply, he's the man.
An awesome concert all around and we can't wait to get a chance to see them again.
BOC played in Lake George NY at an outdoor event called the American Music Festival for the Lake at the Charles R Wood Park.
Johnny A open for BOC along with, Super 400, Let's Be Leonard, and Doctor Magnum.
Ritchie Castellano was absent, Eric stated he had a prior engagement and filling in for him for the first time was Andy Graziano. Eric also noted that Andy was playing without any rehearsal.
BOC took the stage at 5 pm and ended at about 6:35 pm.
Setlist:
Great having Staten Island's Andy Graziano sit in with us for today's show in Lake George NY. Richie Castellano had a commitment before this show was booked and suggested Andy as his replacement.
Andy did an awesome job considering no rehearsal with us and no chance of a sound check today.
Hat's off to Andy Graziano (hope I spelled that right) who sub'ed for Richie last Saturday. Andy Ascolese was on vacation and Richie had to go to a wedding.
Andy learned the songs with Richie, then joined us with no rehearsal or even a sound check and got right in there with us. Bravo!
We went to the show in KC on 11-12-16:
Excellent show... 2nd row seats
Tonight was a night unlike other nights. Buck, Jules and I did an acoustic set due to canceled flights and weather keeping the rest of the guys from reaching Tahoe in time.
A bit chaotic but the crowd seemed to have a good time with this unusual evening.
None of our fly gear made the gig in Lake Tahoe last night. Neither did Richie or Kasim, Steve and Andy. Their travel was completely buggered and they never got to Tahoe.
Eric, Jules and I did the show unplugged acoustically in the Storyteller format and with only 50 or so unhappy people we entertained the rest of the crowd in a one off unique performance.
Today goes down in the books as one of the worst travel days ever.
Left my house at 5 am. STILL traveling!
BOC in Tahoe in the middle of snow season. What could go wrong? Nice 2 hour drive into the Sierra mountains. I lined up around 7 for a 7:30 show. Why are we not going in? My spidey sense told me someone was not going to make it. After watching the news about the East coast's inclement weather, not being let into the venue had me certain of it. They let us in at 7:45. At about 8:30 Buck, Eric and Jules come on stage. They then tell us Richie, Kasim, Andy and the sound guy are stuck in Phoenix. So tonight would be a special acoustic Q & A campfire kind of evening.
My first thought is Astronomy!!! Did not happen. We received a nice story and bits of info from the early days before each song. Burnin for you was aborted after Buck forgot the words. They started over and got it right. It was nice hearing different versions of songs I have heard a billion times, such as Golden Age, Career of Evil and Last Days of May. A fun intimate evening with rock legends!
Set list:
No encore.