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Flame me for this... "Oh look, chairs. Again." "Oh look, clothes racks. Again." "Oh look, a concert jazz piece for our standstill section. Again." "Oh look, an opportunity for a terrible trumpet soloist, plus an out-of-place but so wants to be cool hangover. Again." "Oh look, scatter drill. Slow half-time marching. A broken line across the field. Again. And Again. And Again." We can all argue about stuff that is redundant. But when it comes to choosing what I would prefer to hear/watch (if it's even redundant to begin with) it would ABSOLUTELY be a magnificent hornline that is doing something that nobody else can do, or has ever done for that matter, in this activity. Sorry.

1980, while a very long time ago now, was still the most competitive finals IMHO. The top four were within .8 of each other, and Phantom was barely two points back in fifth place. Each of the top five shared or won a caption (BD horns, 27th GE, Bridgemen & Spirit drums, Phantom M&M). This season reminds me a lot of 2010, with BD leading the way, and the corps chasing them busy knocking each other off in captions - leading to the gap between first and second widening. Unless one of the Cadets/Bloo/SCV/Crown group can clearly break away from the others on the majority of sheets, nobody is likely to catch BD.

Yes, we know that typically our number goes down somewhat in the DCI environment of the the Georgia Dome. We were actually pretty happy that we got the 80! We all know that the only ranking that matters is the one from the week before Rochester that will determine performance order at prelims. We still have our home show in three weeks to post a number. We'll be fine. The real purpose for us doing the regional is the exposure the drum corps gets. We sold a TON of t-shirts, got numerous inquiries about membership for next year, had many many alumni coming up to us, literally in tears, wearing their CV swag saying how proud they were to be alums. There were almost 17,000 potential members, supporters, contributors and benefactors in that building yesterday and walking around after our performance, they all seemed to be talking about CV. Our performance yesterday helped solidify our legitimacy among the music community in the South. The day yesterday was about long term growth for the drum corps...not short term rankings. Oh yeah...and it is a heck of a lot of fun playing in that place! The crowd really seemed to get into our show and showed their appreciation with more than one standing ovation. They seemed genuinely pleased with what we were doing. Very cool from a member's perspective. Good luck to everyone moving forward. We at CV really look forward to sharing the field with you in Rochester. Dan

The design team needs a come to Jesus meeting after this season.

My reaction to the last few pages:

I think there's not nearly enough negativity towards WGI and what it's influence has done to DCI drum corps. It's sad really.

So on a whim, I decided to fly to Atlanta this weekend as it would be the only time I could see live drum corps this year - and man was it worth it! I'm writing this having had about 3 hours sleep total and 2 flights to get back home - so bear with me! Overall Thoughts I don't understand designers that pick themes that are so non-linear or existential or "too fluffy" - they just can't ever be fully realized and just become hard to execute - this is especially true in the lower placing corps - simply alluding to a theme at the beginning or end of the show - or trying to tie it up with a specific musical passage or narration just doesn't cut it I'm surprised by how dirty some guards are this late in the season - we're 2 weeks away from DCI. I've said it over and over again - I would rather spend good money on great techs than on a designer who doesn't tour with the corps I'm constantly amazed by the quality of members marching today - the individual responsibilities that are placed on them, and the physical and mental stamina required to do them are astounding Having most of the regionals (and DCI) indoors has certainly upped the "danger' factor in equipement work - there is some extremely hard stuff being attempted out there that just a couple of years ago would have been relegated to WGI. Carolina Gold I'm a sucker for dark shows - so that's a plus. I was pleasantly surprised by how clean the guard was - some really great writing performed at a high level for this time in the season (for DCA). I remember one flag feature in particluar that was really, really bang on. Not sure that the tombstones added much as I don't recall them really being used much though. I'm also hoping that there were alot of horn holes, because it was hard to decipher what the drill was going for. Atlanta CV Another dark show - awesome. Loved how the main character lulls the corps into submission at the start of the show. Not a fan of having the whole guard in full length skirts at the start - it just doesn't look good on guys (to me anyway). I'm sure the show is still developing as the main character seems to come in and out of the story, but it seems to be a jilted lover putting a hex on the corps (hence the show title). Another really strong guard program backed by a really strong musical program. I actually preferred the corps proper when they all switched to the all black uniform with the green X - it helped clean alot of drill formations. I'm hoping they continue to expand and define the story and get the main character more involved in the overall production Pioneer "Joy" I totally get the constraints that this corps is under in terms of programming, but that said, I didn't really get the connection or underlying "Joy" theme that they were going for. It kind of came off as a disconnected thought process to me (the music, the guard costumes, the props, the tempos et...). That said, it's nice to see Pioneer with a larger guard. They are spinning well together and add alot to the show visually - just never really understood what they were trying to convey to me as an audience member Jersey Surf "Pay it Forward" I really liked the programming choices that Surf made the last 2 years. They were able to generate alot of buzz about the corps and get people into the stands earlier because they were fun and different from the pack. Not so this year. A much more serious product has evolved. The theme itself is too hard to properly convey on a football filed, and apart from guard members giving the corps their shako feathers, the theme never really developed (and yeah I get that they played "Lean on Me" - but song selection does not a theme make). I think that intellectually they thought the theme had alot of potential, but it never translated to the field. The all blue pallet, although really well done, just helped make the corps seem less energetic (color choice is so important!!!). Cascades "Turn" Soooooo much better than last year. They programmed the show smartly this year for the members they had instead of the members they wished they had. It feels like they also took the audience into consideration as the music was recognizable and had fun twists to it (like Summertime into Firebiird). Small corps can be very effective if done right. Where the show didn't work for me was in the props and flag choices. You could tell they were home made, especially the drawn on leaves and flowers on the flags. This took what could have been a very good show and completely brought it down a level. I understand that these things cost money, but you can get the same effect by using a basic color pallet to denote seasons and play with visual emotions. As it was, I was taken out of the show visually. Mandarins "Unbreakable" Probably one of the strongest Mandarin corps I've seen in a while. Love the corps dark purple uniform. It really gives them an intimidating look on the field. I loved the show - but the theme was forced. It didn't need to be there. Had the show been done without the narration - I would have enjoyed it more, as it was I kept thinking I was at a self help seminar. Last year's narration worked because it connected music, story and audience - this year it just doesn't Pacific Crest "No Strings Attached" Strong showing from the guard. I do feel that the all the little "strings" hanging off their costume makes them look dirtier than they are - especially on weapon - as no matter the body placement, the strings have a mind of their own. Not sure about the skull caps either. Love the beginning when they come out with strings of different sizes, but again, I was hoping the theme would develop further - and I think these struggles with committing with a theme is what takes a show from good to great. Oregon Crusaders "Nevermore" I fell in love them OC when they won Open class 2 years ago - so I was excited to see them. I like the ideas flowing from this show, but I was surprised at how dirty the guard was. They need to just clean the heck out of the show for the next 2 weeks, as there were still major body positioning issues, and flag line problems throughout. Also some great opportunities were missed. When the whole corps turns backfield left to point us to the solo rifle tosser - she tosses in front of an open door instead of tossing through the door - just a small thing, but to me goes back to committing to the theme and using all of the nuances that you can The Academy "Vanity Fair" Holy crap, what a fun show. I'm one of the few people that enjoyed last year (even though it was chock full of problems), but I like where they went this year. It seems like a kind of reset. Not sure about the black umbrellas. I get the pop of red - but the black overwhelms. The guard was really hesitant for the first part of the show, but got more and more comfortable as the show progressed and really made this an overall enjoyable show. They seem very young, but if they can keep them and grow the program (Academy always seems to have problems with the guard program) they should do fine. Troopers "A People"s House" As a disclaimer - I'm not American, so I find Patriotic shows kinda tacky. That said, I really enjoyed Troopers this year. I still think that the guards costumes are 1 shade of yellow too light, but they are fielding a strong guard this year. It must be very hard to design for Troopers. They have a very clear identity and thematic purpose which can make the corps seem stuck in the past. The design staff for the last 2 years has done a tremendous job of looking to the past and sticking to an identity but building it for today's audiences (Pioneer should take note). I wasn't a fan of the Lincoln face thing as it looked clunky to set up and was just an overall awkward transition - but they worked the kinks out on that one. Still seems funny though as they literally do 2 Lincoln faces in a row. I even found myself giving them a standing ovation at the end, as it was "americana" done right. Spirit "Magnolia" Where do you go with a theme about a tree. It's a tough one. Spirit has improved considerably this year, but the show design just isn't working. The Magnolia tree prop is too small, so the whole "magnificence and majesty" angle that you'd want to inspire doesn't come through. The guard had a rough run. The opener rifles need major work. Also, if you're going to have mixed weapon lines - don't have 2 costumes that don't line up dril wise - it makes the work look messier. The part of the show that I did love was near the end. The whole guard is spread all over the field with Magnolia flower flags and the work and staging is gorgeous - now if they can find a way to bring more of that to the beginning of the show. Colts "Dark Side of the Rainbow" I love this show. It's really to bad that the speakers cut off, but if you base your whole show on narration, that's a chance you're going to take. Colts have a very strong guard that really sells the show throughout. The corps proper 2 tone uniform works really well to generate effect in the drill - and the drill totally reflects the story line - so thank you for that. The new ending with the "original scarecrow" and the Yellow Brick Road Music is an insanely good idea - might not make finals this year, but definitely the type of programming they should pursue. Modern, accessible, twisted and thoughtful Madison "Time Trip" People are ripping this show apart this year.....and I won't be one of them. This is probably my favorite Madison show in quite some time. The guard had a phenomenal run tonight. The opening flag feature was super clean and I'd say this is probably the best guard Madison has had in quite some time. The time wheel is still an issue a the beginning of the show - but once it starts to be integrated (when the clock gets ripped off) I really like the idea behind it and how it serves as a "portal" to bring people into another musical era. The color and psychedelic progression of the corps is pretty awesome and I love the soft closer - as the dancer who literally started from one corner of the field and ends walking off the other. They just need to figure out how to integrate the wheel from the very start - so that it doesn't look like an afterthought. Blue Stars "Where the Heart is" I'll tell you where the heart is....it's probably in the guards throats with all the tricks they have to perform. This show is a master class in technical proficiency and extremely difficult equipment work. Watch the intricacies in the flag work, the hand positions changes and toss varieties alone are incredible to watch. The downside is that they are dirtier than the groups around them (especially the bubble wrap flags last night), but their composition scores should hopefully make up for it. Color coordination is extremely strong. From the costumes to the flag choices, they all work in unison to give us a strong emotional connection to the theme. And a big shout out to the guy that does the flip over the couch and catches his sabre - super cool moment in the show. Crossmen "Alma Gitana" I really like what the Crossmen are doing this year and the Caravan motif they weave throughout the show. I wish they would use the 3 caravans more during the show - seems like they could be used to generate more effect. A very strong guard (as always) really helps sell this program and the new corps uniform really screams "Crossmen" - should be back in top 12 this year. They did seem a bit shaky at the start - not sure if the appearance of "Bones" in the back stands caused members to overhype. Love the ballad number (I think Freelancers opened their show in '85 with this piece), but wasn't sure about the "carpets" used by the guard. Phantom Regiment The show is definitely growing on me. I wished they would stop programming around their all girl guard though. It made sense the first 2 years as it served to emphasize the return of the "Phantomettes" but I feel that they rely on this way too much now. They have made alot of changes though and it shows. Phantom has a really strong rifle line and the best part of the show for me is when the guard is separated into 4 units - the work and musicality is awesome and those ladies know how to spin. I still think that the corps propers first uniform has too much black and not enough white. So that when they do switch to all black - the effect never really happens as planned. But I was pleasantly surprised with how far this show has come. Boston Crusaders "Animal Farm" Every once in a while a show comes along that is sooo out there and soooo good, that scores don't really matter - and this is one of them. They are doing things that I haven't really seen before (and trust me I've seen alot). The drill choices have a very singular viewpoint and I appreciate that. The guard has really started to gel, and you can tell. It is an extremely complex show, and one mistake can ruin a whole segment - so I appreciate that they are going for it. The change to the black and red jackets and red masks at the end really helps drives the darkness of the show at that point! Blue Knights "That One Second" This show is a breath of fresh air. Anyone who doesn't think color choice is important and can psychologically affect people - needs to view this show on repeat. It's not an "In your face" type of show, but a very cerebral one that draws you in more and more as it progresses. There are so many details in this show that it needs multiple viewings - and that's a good thing. The only thing I question is using the same color scheme on the guard as the corps - they can get lost sometimes when they're integrated into the corps - but other than that - a strong showing for Blue Knights this year. The Cavaliers "Immortal" This show has grown leaps and bounds over the summer. I was worried about the over reliance of the 8 weapon boys - but these guys are absolutely nailing their show now and grabbing our attention while selling the Immortal theme. The flag line has also improved drastically - they were tight tonight. Loved the part where the horn player becomes a skeleton right before our eyes. I really love the marimba "run-off" too - but my one criticism is how does that tie into the theme of "Immortal". I'm hoping they use "electronic sound design" to more effect and make the show even darker by DCI - but it's getting there! And major kudos to the tuba player who had to do the crazy ending drill wrapped up in his red streamer - that could have been a huge disaster. Welcome back Cavaliers !!!!! Crown "Out of this World" This show is so complexe and difficult and extreme. It has everything we love about Crown shows - yet it seems like it isn't connecting with audiences as much as last year - I blame us - I think we put them on a pedestal and no matter what they did this year wouldn't be enough. That said, I'm not sure why they remain committed to the trampolines - apart from the end of the ballad with the ode to "Gravity" they just don't add anything....at all. The guard had a wobbly run last night starting with the opening rifle sequence - it's strange to see Crown with so many breaks and wobbles - it's uncharacteristic of them. I am happy that they got rid of the circle things though - keeping the flags instead is a good choice. Overall, their equipment book is once again crazy hard - but they aren't controlling it yet - and that has to hurt their scores. The one thing I would say is that it is hard to connect emotionally and go on the journey that the music conveys as every single color choice is "bright" and "neon" - it was harder to appreciate the lush ballad because the flags were basically yelling at me the whole time. Oh - and I'm really not a horn guy - but holy crap - even I could tell that they play like no one else !!!!! Vanguard "Scheherazade" Vanguard has really developed their guard program over the last 2 years. They are once again stellar this year in execution and interpretation. I love the choices they make - like the saber flag work add on in the opener, and their fantastic rifle line. The color choices in the ballad are gorgeous and they work hard to sell the theme. That said, the theme and music and guard costuming is so similar to 2004 that I can't help but compare - and although this year's version is much, much better, 2004's version was so much more emotional and you can't compete with that. Loved the new ending though - reminded me of their 1989 Phantom corps disappearance ! Blue Devils "Felliniesque" I've had my issues with BD over the years - but not this year. Their total commitment to theme and the nuanced details that they use on everything, everywhere at all times - is a step above everyone else. The guard is in complete control at all times and go through so many different emotions throughout the show - I'm surprised they don't have a psychologist on tour with them The rifle feature alone in "Be Italien" is sooo good (yeah I know everyone is watching the tamborine girls, but next time watch the guys for a second or two!!!) Not sure about the long "film" banners at the end - I have a feeling they're still working that out as it seemed kind of tacked on at this point. I also really liked the use of the streamers - brought back memories of their '80's guards (as did their solo performer with the feathers). These performers really understand the concept and perform it with confidence. I loved the one guy walking down the stage as he was followed by the girl with the umbrella - such a unique moment in the show for me. They will win best color guard again this year - no question about it. Bluecoats "Tilted" My favorite show of the summer. It's modern, fresh, fun and engaging - what more could you want. They are strong across the board and the color choice on the corps proper uniform is so bang on. It commands authority and respect. The orange used to contrast is (surprise, surprise) perfect. I'm still not sold on the opening rifle / dance feature as I think it's a missed opportunity - but I love that the "V" poles are now orange - you can really see what they are doing now and it is insanely clean! Love the new ending too - always felt the other one was anti climactic. Cadets Cadets are doing Cadets very well - but I'm not connecting with the show. I appreciate what they are doing - but I don't see the "heart" coming from it. I still don't get the stage as it's still not used to maximum effect. Guard wise, it's definitely one of the strongest Cadets guards. The opening flag feature was spot on and their saber book (especially in the closer) is insane. I do feel that they have taken a more conservative approach to show design as it feels like vintage Cadets - not a bad thing - but doesn't hit that cutting edge level that I used to love from Cadets. Color wise - I don't like the cumberbunds matching the guard - I get the intent, but the corps looks strange with light blue and then brown cumberbunds. It seems like they are really pushing the patriotism angle at the end, but it's just doesn't work for me - then again - I'm not American remember Overall - great, great year and can't wait to see how things develop over the next 2 weeks. One thing for sure - Blue Devils will take it this year, their attention to detail, overall design, connection to theme, musical choices, color and sound design are all so cohesive that the package is greater than the sum of its parts (which is pretty strong too!!!!!) Later, Mike

I don't think so. I think it's worse for The Cadets. Coats were 0.35 from Cadets two nights ago. Patience.

. A cow in a taxi chasing a white rabbit in a schoolgirl uniform .

If a corps has that kind of talent, it needs to be on display as much as possible.

So.... Space Oddity Interstellar Suite Shadow Behind the Iron Sun There's No Place Like Home from LOST Major Tom Perihelion Vitae Aeternum Those don't fit the concept of Crown's show this season? They're just notes for notes sake? (which btw would further imply that Klesch *added* all those notes to the arrangments). Just curious. As for "Bigger, louder, faster, higher = boring", I'd simply point out that the crowd in the Georgia dome seemed to be quite entertained -- not bored at all. Does that matter at all?

I feel like someone says these same things every single year. This top 5 is the best ever. This 6-12 is the best ever. This group of non-finalist corps is the best ever.

"That judge just hates us!!!!" - said every high school band parent/ booster ever.

I saw this for the first time this weekend (Nashville and Atlanta). I'd already heard about it but deliberately chose to NOT watch videos of it so I could gauge the full effect of seeing it live for the first time. One of the best GE moments and crowd reactions I've seen in several years. I'm generally not an electronics guy but in this case it is used beautifully. It doesn't make a difference to me whether the brass did the pitch bend or not -it works so well because of the integrated corps movement and chord progressions. Something does not necessarily have to be complicated to work. It's called General Effect - something that in my opinion has been sorely lacking in DCI shows in recent years.

Perhaps the drum corps activity needs the "super judge." "Those are some tall tubas! Golly." "I keep losing my pencils like gangbusters." "Those sure are some purty flags."

Your comment is so offensive! Obviously, you have no idea what this man has done in the visual arts his whole life. He is not just a math teacher (not that there is anything wrong with that) and you do have to be qualified to be a judge. Please do not complain about the adjudicator because you do not agree with their assessment.

nailed it.

I appreciate and respect the replies from those of you who don't think that the pitch bend is anything special - especially because the majority of several members of my family are ex bluecoats and I feel like they are often very biased. Never having marched before, I am much less enthused by drum corps in general, but being a part of this family requires a level of interest in the sport. So I don't want to offend anyone, I truly love DCI, but I feel very critical of the coats, simply because they feel like a part of the family. But I'd like to share a relevant story (imo): I was in my kitchen doing dishes while my brother, a bluecoats age-out, was playing past drum corps shows on youtube. He was going through all kinds of shows for about an hour before he started to play the coats 2014 music. Now, this was EARLY in the season - it was a recording he made for himself after visiting the Bluecoats move-in site and watching them practice. I hadn't heard any of the coats music yet, he didn't mention it was them, but as soon as the pitch dipped I stopped doing what I was doing, whipped my head around, wide-eyed, and said, "Who the f*ck is that?!" It was an authentic reaction. It could have been any corps, phantom, bd, pioneer for all I knew. Again, I respect your opinion…buttttttt: If you are saying that you don't think the pitch bend is anything special, I have to assume that you have something against the Bluecoats in the first place….because that part of their show sounds surprising and phenomenal and new…no matter how its done, synth or no. I can attest to that. I had no idea who I was listening to, but I knew it was baller as f*ck.

I love this part but I think it would be more impressive if the horn line actually bent the pitch. Imagine the GE

Bloo is tied for 3rd and they didn't even perform tonight.

So in 4 days, Crown goes from being down 3.10 to Cadets, to 1.35, to 1.05, to 0.80. Yikes, LOOK OUT!!!!!!!

Wow, just checked into the Boston thread.. Hmmm, I think I'll go back to the Cadets bashing on the Cadets thread.

BlooandBlue1and2 even better

Of course I'm biased, but Cadets did great, great energy, solos, marching, minor brass ensemble issues. Standing ovation!

New ending, hell yes. (Madison are you paying attention...)

Fantastic performance in Atlanta, BK. Great job passing up Phantom; you deserved it. Also a very impressive score relative to the Cavaliers. A 6th-place finish, while unlikely, is not out of the question this year. Keep it up!

No way can Troopers overtake Crossmen Signed, 1979 Prelims

Because they're clean. Whatever technique BD uses put them at an advantage.

It's fine for you to say that is the way it strikes you. The issue I have is that several posters this year have said something like 'Crown is playing a lot of notes just for the sake of playing them.' In addition to arrogantly suggesting they can speak for what is universally entertaining, they are essentially accusing Crown of sacrificing entertainment for whatever selfish reason they ascribe to them. I can only say that if all these things are true, Crown has entertained the heck out of me this year, apparently quite by accident.

for me effect is effect. I dont care how it was done . It can come from the cosmic forces for all I care.....hmmm wait thats someone else..lol

Disagree. Klesch is probably the most hands-off arranger in drum corps. His arrangements always respect the original.

Added 2014 Nashville, TN reaction. "Jesus Christ"

Till this time in 2015 anyway

Blue Knights 2012 has absolutely nothing to do with the trajectory of Boston Crusaders 2014. But, if it is historical perspective you find yourself in need of, might I suggest Boston Crusaders 2000 and 2002? In both cases, BAC was in 8th this week and finished in FIFTH at finals. I am growing tired of these oft-repeated posts all providing the same narrative: Boston's show is amazingly demanding, BUT can they clean it? Seriously? They ARE in fact cleaning it and are gaining on the pack with every show. Check their relative spreads from corps like Phantom Regiment, Bluecoats etc over the last 30 days. Ironically, some of these folks are most likely the very same people who will shockingly say something like, "Where did Boston come from?" when BAC scrapes their way into 6th in two weeks.

Agreed I find this show getting stuck in my head a few times too. I'd like to see Phantom take a 2010 approach again though. Original music that may or may not be considered completely classical in the sense that it wasn't made by a 200 year old man (exaggeration) that is used in a show that is designed to challenge the corps and pull the audience in with emotion.

I suspect that's not quite the case.

That's 6 corps. Maybe that's what gives them the edge.

I guess if the qualification to become a MLB umpire, or an NFL referee, etc and other sports is that you have had to play that sport professionally, we'd have to eliminate all the math teachers, real estate brokers, insurance agents, travel agents, small business owners, lawyers, that are currently judging in these sports too that never played the sport " professionally " either.... which means goodbye to most these umps, refs that have been working these jobs for decades as well. My concern is not so much with the current people judging.. all of 'em good, honest, people who are asked to do essentially an impossible job, ie compare and contrast completely and wholly disparate things, but the fact is that most of the judges are white ( or white-Asian ) and are mostly over 50 years old. DCI could use a younger judges perspective, and with fresher eyes and ears, and with perhaps more eclectic and younger tastes in musical genres. I have little doubt for example that judges under ( for example ) 35 or 40 might have a different take on this season's BAC show, and conversely also, a different take on the Cadets show ( for just one brief example ). People over 50 that are white DO tend to have musical impulses that instinctively and intuitively respond differently than do most people under 35, 40 and how they respond to music and visual images. George Oliviero is a good guy... honest to a fault. Solid integrity. I've known him for 40 years. He judged DCI shows when he was in his late 20's. T. Nicolaris also was in his 30's doing major DCI shows back in the early years of DCI as well. Where are today's 20's, 30's, early 40's judges doing DCI major shows ? We don't have that, and their younger perspective outlook on the shows. DCI could use an infusion of much younger DCI judges, imo.

Boy a lot of second guessing the judging panel and results! This was a very deep, experienced panel Doesn't mean you have to "like" the outcome - but personally I think the recaps look pretty reasonable A couple of notes: Clearly BD is the front runner this year - I'm not sure anyone will challenge them. The judges see the same thing I'm seeing, VERY strong and balanced corps performing the heck out of a strong and well-designed, effective program Cadets: seems some polish is off the apple as the recaps are much more mixed. A week ago they were a pretty consistent #2 in everything, now we see more 3s & 4s mixing in. Cadets are clean and technically sound, but as the corps behind them have improved execution their show is starting to come off more "stale" in comparison. Time for Cadet land to get busy and ramp this show's GE up and put a better ending in place. If they fail to do so - they could easily drop as low as fifth by finals. If they make the perfect changes it's possible they could close in some on BD and give them a challenge Coats: a true contender for second, an outsider contender for Gold. They'll need to clean clean clean this next week to cut that gap down to a more reasonable 1 point with BD at Allentown and then have a GREAT finals week. If I was on Coats staff Crown would be making me vary nervous, as would SCV. Crown seems to have more momentum and GE potential to move into the medals ranks. Crown: a very talented corps with a dirty show. But changes in place have improved the clarity of the program and its effectiveness. The Brass caption is theirs - they've got to clean their feet and that guard. If they do - watch out. Bit downer here remains percussion. After starting the season in great shape they've been posting fifth and sixth place finishes. Looks like it remains their achilles heal - perhaps cleaning the feet will help. Guard MUST get sparkling clean, and they could contend for a medal or even second place. SCV: a very dangerous corps but frankly the judging community is placing them lower than I'd expect. Drums are unreal and they've got a great shot at the Sanford. With the right cleaning they could medal - and the 3 corps in front of them should keep close watch on SCV as they clean that marching - particularly direction changes and the transitions. Guard doesn't seem to connect as well this year as last, and the "story" is a bit fuzzy - so some changes in that regard could help their GE Some real interesting stuff in the middle ranks (Boston could take out Regiment if they can clean enough), around 12th place (which seems like Crossmen's to lose, but it could be Madison's to lose eventually) and also of course the 13th-17th place corps which are very strong this year and quite competitive. Getting into semi-finals will be a real challenge and a very good corps or two will be left watching on Friday night! Overall a great year in DCI with several competitive shows, and a ton of variety in the top 12 ranks - perhaps the most varied programs I can recall Looking forward to A-town! George.

people that have day jobs: Brian Hall, VP at VISA; World Cup Referee Mark Geiger, Math Teacher in NJ; World Cup Referee Ed Hochuli, Attorney; NFL Referee

With two weeks remaining, here goes... 1. Blue Devils 2. Bluecoats 3. Cadets 4. Carolina Crown 5. Santa Clara Vanguard 6. The Cavaliers 7. Blue Knights 8. Phantom Regiment 9. The Blue Stars 10. Boston Crusaders 11. Madison Scouts 12. Crossmen 13. The Troopers 14. The Colts 15. Spirit of Atlanta 16. Oregon Crusaders 17. The Academy 18. Pacific Crest 19. The Mandarins 20. Advancing Open Class Corps (Blue Devils B, Vanguard Cadets, etc) 21. Advancing Open Class Corps (Blue Devils B, Vanguard Cadets, etc) 22. Jersey Surf 23. Seattle Cascades 24. Advancing Open Class Corps 25. Pioneer

What makes the pitch bend so awesome is the "combined" effect it has with the brass and the electronics. It's brilliant, it's perfect, and it works wonderfully. Believe it or not, there are a lot of us old drum corps dinosaurs out there that love the Bluecoats ending. Moreover, this is one of the first drum corps shows that has the electronics integrated perfectly with the brass and percussion.

I'll say this, the Cadets are super talented; but, man, what a letdown coming on after the Bluecoats. In your face, over-the-top, history lesson, white picket fence, apple pie, oh golly gee wiz, Americana shows just don't do it for me. ...Starting next year, can the music of Appalachian Spring be shelved for a looooooong while? Please?

George Oliviero has spewed hate on The Cavaliers from back when I was a marching member until the present. Every time I think he reaches a new low he grabs a shovel and continues to dig a deeper hole.

This was an A+ panel and the scores were very consistent as a whole. I cannot believe some of you rookies are stupid enough to take on the likes of Oliviero, Hinman, Torchia and Lo. These folks are finals level judges who have done this for ages who frankly, rarely get it wrong. If they saw it and it is reflected in the score then you can take it to the bank it happened how they called it!

I'd be super embarrassed to have to do all that silliness they have to do now with the nonsensical leg movements. They've made drum corps less and less bad*** since the early 2000's. Drum corps don't have to be gymnasts to have that swagger. Just silly what the judging guidelines have required.

Just got back from Atlanta. I had bad seats so I couldn't tell if the drop in score tonight was from a bad run or if it was the rough go-on draw. Regardless, I still enjoy the show after seeing it a second time. But the one thing that troubles me is how far behind in show design Scouts are right now. I'm not talking narration and a field full of props...but goodness. It is just night and day from Scouts and the upper corps....I mean, not even the same zip code. And it really pained my heart to see that huge Atlanta crowd give the Scouts just a nice ovation when all was said and done whereas Crown and Bloo had that crowd rocketing up out of their seats before their respective shows ended.

. My guess is it has something to do with the 4 corps ahead of them.

I would agree that it is possible. We all know what consistency BD will have and a final push We all know Cadets will bring a final visual blast to their already successful show We know both know how to win and what to do What we dont know is how BC will handle the last few weeks. Now this is a good and bad. The unknown can certainly work for them also knowing how the other 2 will react to the next few weeks. They do seem to be doing the right things at the right time.Make any sense?

Okay guys and gals. You sold it hard tonight for me. Sappy crap and all. Best show in a very long time.