[Dixielandjazz] Out from lurking, but why??

[Vaxtrpts at aol.com]

Well, lets see, first of all, I lurk because the only time I get any  
responses on this list is when I say something controversial.  When I say  "nice 
things," it is if I never said anything at all......
So here goes.
1. I LOVE soprano sax in a dixieland or "trad" band. And that has nothing  to 
do with a Sidney Becket vibrato, which I hate.
2. I am also one who likes the band to be amplified, unless it is in a very  
small space.  But I only like it with a good sound person.  We had a  TERRIBLE 
one at the Radisson Edgewater Ballroom in Sacramento.  We did a  really fun 
double band set with Nightblooming and the Great American Jazz Band  on Friday 
night and the sound guy almost ruined the whole thing.
No clue at all!  When we tour with the Stan Kenton Alumni Band (opps,  am I 
allowed to talk about that band here?????)  We bring our own sound  person and 
use the sound systems that are supplied by the venues.  It  states in our 
contract that they are not allowed to touch the system, once it is  set up.
3. It is interesting to me that almost all the bands discussed on this  list, 
when talking about Sacramento were very trad bands or all-star bands.  There 
were plenty of other wonderful bands there, but I guess many of you  didn't 
bother to hear them.
4. Interesting thread about recorded solos as opposed to live solos.   I have 
heard great solos in both idioms.  I have to agree that one of my  favorite 
recordings of all time is "Ambassador Satch!"  Talk about great  energy and 
great solos, while being recorded live...............
I have lots more to discuss, but maybe I'll let this one suffice for  now.  
Wouldn't want to get everyone too upset with me at one time.
More later.............
Mike Vax