In watching the 2005 Finals DVD it is quite apparent that the judging community dropped the ball during the entirety of finals week. Specifically, I'm talking about the placement of Phantom Regiment. The only other corps that put an equally impressive show on the field, (in terms of demand only), was The Cadets.
I found myself confused after watching Cavies. The difference in quality between PR's and Cavie's 05 productions is almost uncomparable. Where is the music in the Cavies show? The statement that "the hornline doesn't play while marching" holds true about 90 percent of the time. Now compare that with PR's line, playing rich melodies and tought technical passages while really on the go. If memory serves me correctly, Cavies and PR tied in horns that night. That is probably one of the most rediculous things I have ever seen out of the judging community. Where is the balance, blend, good intonation, rich sound in the Cavies hornline? Heck, where is the music?! I mean, this line doesn't play at all!
The difference in GE is also uncomparable. A very poor show in terms of audience appeal and pagentry.
The Cavies show did have a good deal of visual appeal. However this has always been their strong suit. Also, as mentioned before the brass don't do much playing while doing these drills. If "Stop, Play, then Go" is the future of drum corps, I don't think I will enjoy it nearly as much. I can only hope that Phantom is pioneering the musical future of DCI, with beatiful melodies, and memorable moments. Isn't that what music is all about? Now who can hum or even remember all of the selections from 05 Cavies?