BDFan

I think the pit area is way overdone. I understand the logic of grounding the heavy instruments but it really gets to be too much. I really miss the sound of the marching tympani---I think that brought a unique sound to Drum Corps ( I'm sure some of the old-timers don't miss carrying them).

I think any exposure on a national level is good; the CBS newsclip they showed at semis is a good example. For me, Drum Corps is a lot like NASCAR----there's nothing like being there. Hopefully, exposure like the ESPN broacast will get them through the door (or gate).

George--I believe there is a nice hotel downtown not very far from the Capital and has a view of the lake. Sorry I can't recall the name; we dropped off some friends there after buying tickets. Good luck!!

The DCI web-site has a Louisville date of July 17 (Monday) that was'nt in the E-mail.

They (DCI) dont't give a crap what we think.

Through all of this thread, I've not found any information to support amplification as being anything other than a cop-out for show designers. It's amazing for years that Drum Corps have been able to tell their stories without the use of amplification. Would the Bridgemen or other Corps have been as memorable with someone "telling" their story. BD has been my favorite for years, but after seeing them at Murfreesboro last night, I'll be going to get a beer during their show. I almost became sick during their show. A Corps whose bread and butter has been their hornline takes a backseat to "YOWZA, YOWZA, YOWZA". Now thats a move forward.

I'm not sure where to find just a clip, but I believe the '74, '75, and '78 shows have the Bottle Dance. Also, they did it in '82 and '92 as you mentioned. 1982 is interesting because you can hear the hornline is off-time, apparently the echo in Montreal was pretty bad and they brought it back just for finals. You might check the SCV website for videos or DVDs as well.

Many years ago, I got a recording of '75 Muchachos and '77 Bridgemen from Ken Kobold. He sent them along when I had made an order. I think DCI has all his old recordings so I'm not sure if the recording is still available. I would enjoy being able to get a video as well.