ShutUpAndPlayYerGuitar

Edit: Problem Solved :P

Divisions II and II have their own scoring system. Basically, if you take a division II/II score and subtract it by 10, that gives you a (very rough) indication of how that particular corps stacks up to their div. I brothers. Well...at least that's my understanding.

Has DCI ever considered the Edward Jones Dome (formerly the TWA Dome) in St. Louis? It's just like the alamodome. And they do host a BOA regional every year. As much as I enjoyed going through the big blue doors, I can't wait till I see that sound-trap known as the RCA dome demolished.

It's only politics if it involves your corps...

A score is nothing more than a number given by a series of judges (most of whom have experiance and expertise, and others who don't). It is very easy for both fans and marching members to get carried away with the results of even the most inane competition (Oswego anyone? ). Overall, performance and acheivement are what really matter (I'm saying this in my best Scott Stewart voice). But... Without judging or scores, this activity would definately not be where it is today. As someone else previously posted, competion is a major part of life. You can look at scoring as a necessary evil if you want. But without it, DCI would be nothing but showbands.

There needs to be a Frank Zappa show. I know BD's drum solo in 86 was a Zappa work, but I think a lot of his stuff (ok, half of his stuff. This is the same guy that wrote a song in 17/5 meter) could translate on to the field as an entire show. I think this is something the Cadets could definately do.

This was my first time actually paying to see a show, so this was a new experiance for me. Govenaires: I have never seen a corps with 15 horns, 6-7 flags, and 7 drums rock out like these guys. The Govies had tons of confidence and a swaggar to them that many junior corps can never have. Favorite part was "The Penguin Shuffle." Blue Stars: Very intruiging show. This was my first time seeing this corps, so I finally understand what the hype was about. The hornline obviously has a very difficult book. But I could tell from up top that many people weren't playing at certain points. Also, the mellophones need to put in some serious work. Almost all the mello features were muddled. Awesome low brass section (got some serious goose bumps). Drill was almost unreadable at times, but that will fix up in due time. The guard was very strong (the unis, however, were a bit of an eye sore). Great flag work in the ballad. I'm sure this corps is a strong contender in div. 2. Colts: Great improvment by the entire corps. The marching technique by the hornline is considerably better than previous years. They looked much stronger than the Blue Knights. The drill and visual design, however, does not look too difficult. Sure the Colts have their share of visual impacts and "goose bump" moments, but nothing really stood out among the other div 1 corps. The hornline sounds incredible. The drumline is strong too (the tenors were lacking though). It's great that they are doing well this early, but I won't be surprised if they peak later in the season. Blue Knights: Very difficult and well designed show. But I understand why they're getting these low scores. Marching execution is atrocious at some points. The visual design has many cool features, especially in the drum solo. Musically, the battery is running the entire show. The hornline has some cool moments, but is sounding pretty weak and muddled. The opening hit was a rude awakening to many audience members. Guard was fantastic, though. Integrated well throughout the show (especially during the drum solo). I'm hoping the staff changes a few things later in the year. Last year's show was one of my favorites; I would hate to see them go down this year. Madison Scouts: THAT is what a Madison hornline sounds like! Even though there were plethora of missed releases through out the show, but nobody seemed to care. I was sitting lower in the stands at this point, so I couldn't get a good look at the drill. The drumline was fairly solid. Even though I hate McNutt's writing (him and his love affair with paradiddles), I was enjoying the battery's performance. The guard seemed to have an off night. Lots of drops, especially in the intro. The uniforms have gone through a bit of a change. No red any where, not even on the aussie. Even though I'm debating with my self whether or not I liked this show, I'm pretty sure this will get Madison into the top 5. My apoligies to MN Brass and Chops Inc. I wasn't able to see their shows.

I voted for Scott Stewert. The guy was a genius when it came to the finance aspect. The fact that many of his veteren members paid no more than $100 in the late ninties was remarkable. I would also like to give props to the Combine crew.

This is a brand I know very little about. From what I've heard, Musser has made some quality products and several corps have used their pit equipment in years past. What do you all think?

I know Scott Boerma arranged at least two of their shows.

Dutch Boy 88 Southwind 00 Madison 02 BK 02 Spirit 04- I fail to realize how people can say this hornline was "unemotional," as is described in most of the reviews I've read about them.

Edit: nevermind

93 Star 95 Madison 96 Phantom

80 27th Lancers 83 Garfield Cadets 85 Suncoast Sound

74 Kingsmen 76 BD (Dying to see this show) 77 Bridgemen I admit, I'm not as familiar with 70's drum corps as I would like to be.

Are there any corps who use Ludwig? Are there any good models?