slabbit

I never realized how lucky I was when I marched Star. Bloomington was a 2 hour drive away, there were 10 camps, and each camp cost $20. I had to get there and pay $200. That was it. It's a real shame that other corps were unable to attract benefactors like Bill Cook and/or have good businessmen directors like Jim Mason. We were so lucky.

I have to say, as someone who frequently dislikes what the Blue Devils are doing but is usually impressed by their show design, I actually love this show. It's interesting, fun, gorgeous, and well-executed. I'm never much of a fan of electronics or recorded voices, but their use in this show is so well integrated that it really works. Honestly, I've never cared much for the way the Devils play, but this is frankly what corps should be doing if they want to elevate drum corps. Most corps design, especially the "entertaining" design is just really great marching band design, which is fine, but is never going to give drum corps the artistic respect it should be going for. I absolutely want variety and entertainment in DCI, but I do think the strive to have a easily followed narrative through a show comes off a cheesy most of the time. Abstract designs can be pretty compelling and exciting if done right. They also separate the drum corps activity from marching band much more in my opinion. B.

Thank you Crown! I have frankly been ambivalent about DCI and the direction of the corps for the most part since 1993. Over the last two years and especially this year, you have single-handedly made me a fan again. I get chills like I used to back in high school hearing Star hit one of their beautiful chords and instead of just hearing "loud" I hear "notes" which happen to be louder than anyone else. How in the hell any judge gave you 5th (FIFTH?!?!?!) in brass is a shame, but is typical for what drew me away from drum corps. Keep it up and I hope for a Jim Ott and maybe more next year. Thanks again Crown and congratulations!