Tony, bands, including jazz trios, are also a dime a dozen. The distinction I intended to make was not so much between the musicians as the audiences. I think it is infinitely harder to entertain an audience as a single than as the (practically invisible) member of a band, complete with a featured vocalist. I know for sure that I couldn't do it and I admire those that can do it well. I have a friend who does it (well) and he does, for sure, have a following; a big one. He is a better than average singer and an incredible musician (pianist/organist/synthesist, in the truest since on the word) and has always made a good living (he's never done anything else). He's also a great entertainer, a true professional. BUT....I still think the people that come to see him, his 'following', come for the 'event', not the music. The fact that the music is good only enhances the 'event' but is definitely secondary.

So, by "dime a dozen", I'm referring to the thousands of musicians, OMB's/groups, etc. that work the (too few, largely second-tier) bars, clubs, restaurants, dance halls, senior facilities, "concert-in-the-park", corporate parties, etc.

Actually, I knew when I re-read it that that particular portion would draw some flak but was too lazy to re-word it. The truth is, with the exception of one individual, I have no feelings of animosity towards any of the members of Synthzone. In fact, I feel a great affinity with quite a few of them. In the case of the exception, I feel that the person is a hard-core bigot, and I hate bigots, simple as that. Trust me, it's not hard to tell the difference between when someone is 'funning' you (like Fran ), and when it's something much deeper. And, let's let it go at that.

I appreciate your thoughts and your sincerity, Tony, and if you're ever in the neighborhood, look me up. I really enjoy the company of other 'ol' fart' musicians. Hey, there could still be hope for our 'trio' .

chas