BlooContraGuy

Just state the cliches. And then just show everyone that they were true in the summer. ...ahem... 2010 Bluecoats.

Such a weird funny time to drop. I laugh almost every time I see it. I feel bad for the guy, but it's just funny how it happens.

Because 2008 was awesome, for all the top 6 corps except maybe one (that had a less-than-stellar script). The shows are just so much fun to watch and listen to. Hell, a bronze in 2008 is just as good as the gold in a few other years (IMO). Awesome summer for drum corps.

Great review! Thanks for writing it Also the Metropolis (movie) video is great. I've heard its not an easy movie to watch, but I'm thinking of renting it from the library sometime soon.

This.

Tim Fairbanks is legit. A creative genius in my mind.

Well, someone thought of it. So clearly, it's not a fact that they did the unthinkable. Wish I could have seen some corps from the stands. That would have been nice in a year like this. It didn't feel easy. But what do I know? I've just been doing this for a few years. Though I do agree with you on your first point here. The judges do usually get it right by finals. My nice thing to say: Most Cavaliers I've met are much more humble than this. I like them. They're a fun bunch of guys. They sounded really good this year from the various tunnels and sidelines from which I got to hear them, and I can't say I was surprised by the move finals week. And I don't need a different colored medal to make myself feel good about it. But thanks anyway for expressing how you feel.

(coming from a guy who hasn't seen the dvds or the Blu-Rays yet) Did you try it on a DVD player attached to a decent sound system?

Bluecoats and Cavaliers definitely don't have trouble getting along in my experience. Even when we are close in competition, its hard to have disgruntled feelings toward those guys. They're just too much fun to hang out with. Our corps seem to have very similar atmospheres as far as attitudes go.

I feel like it's important for the drum major to have an existing relationship with the corps members and staff. I certainly believe that it's more than possible for the audition process to work out, but in my experience with my corps, a strong veteran leader is a great way to go. Notice I didn't just say "veteran," but a "strong veteran leader." Look at the 2009-10 Bluecoats DM, Eric Humbert-Story. He may not be mentioned as much as the guy who left BD for Madison, or some others, but I can tell you that having him on the podium the past two summers has done wonders for the corps. He is a phenomenal leader. In 2008 he was one of our two horn sergeants, and he was asked to step up to the plate in 2009. People like him are the reason I love Drum Corps, and the reason why I love the Bluecoats. There is absolutely no one that I would have rather had representing the Bluecoats. So thanks Eric. You helped make the past few summers of my life beyond incredible. Anyway, different corps have different atmospheres and different ways of approaching their leadership. Its all preference.

That would have been totes cool bro.

From time to time, I get some pretty bad back and knee pain. The knee pain usually comes around when it gets colder or humidity levels rise these days. I've had a fair amount of marching experience, and most of my joint pain started in high school with those #### sousaphones on a concrete field. Some days on tour my back just goes numb and tingly while holding the horn. Not too worried about that.

I just want to see the show!

Well, they do have very good brass staff. I think they'll be just fine. (even though I really don't prefer jupiter)

...what? Someone said that BD wanted to use snippets of a piece... what's the big deal?

I can't remember the entire story, but: There was no competition like that. BD talked to Mackey first, and he wanted them to do it because hey, they make him money. And somewhere in that mix, the Bluecoats asked for permission, got it and did a hell of a job with it. The only reason BD didn't use Asphalt Cocktail was because they found out that the Bluecoats were playing it and announced it first.

If they want to stay competitive, have a good guard staff and choose the right members. If they want all girls, I think its great!

Just saw one of my friends post this on their facebook, Thought it was great

... really?

I love that vanguard contra picture so much...

...wait. What? DCI is screwing crown over? When did this start?

Beat me to it. That would work as an awesome preshow or exit segment.

lol Las Vegas 2009 had fan voting. Not exactly what I think you have in mind, but it certainly implemented the fans into some sort of ranking process. And essentially you're right. The fans don't have an obviously direct impact on any contest outcome. Though indirectly, I believe that fans and their general opinions do impact the activity indirectly in many ways. Is it quantifiable? maybe not... but I still believe that fans have some impact.

I'd like for people to chill about the whole woodwind thing. I don't think it's gonna happen. On the (separate) subject of orchestral volume, the difference in acoustics of the performance venues between drum corps and orchestra is just night and day. Physics people. Didn't you pay attention in school? Also, if you've ever heard a corps in an auditorium or gym, you know that it is MUCH louder than when they are outside. Now for the actual thread. I'd love to hear BD play some music. They are being experimental in their approach, which is cool, but I like music. A lot of people like music. Please play something maybe a little more accessible than last year. You guys are champions, celebrate with a cool show. I'd like to see cool stuff like what Madison did this year. Keepin it real. Just tidy it up around the edges. Wouldn't it be cool if the Crossmen could come back to Finalist status? I hope they can find a staff set that can click enough to get the corps back up there. I'd like that. And what I'd like most to happen next summer is to have a fun age out. It's been a long run, and I'd like to go out with a killer summer.

Ridiculous Low brass parts. Not judged. Too bad indeed. They would have gotten some serious points for that i think.