17 Jan 2002, Ventura Theatre, Ventura, CA, USA
I've been a Dregs fan for about 15 years now. But believe it or not, while I've seen Steve (almost by accident) twice in my life (Opening for Rush circa '84 and with Kansas circa '87), I'd never seen a Dregs gig until last Thursday in beautiful Ventura, Ca.
The sound in the small theater, formerly a movie theater originally opened in the 20's, wasn't optimum, but the way Steve rolls from town to town with his bands, it's understandable if every "arena" isn't set up to sound specs. But boy did they play!!This is one of the most well-rehearsed bands anyone will hear, so it's so nice to see top-notch musicians having an incredible time just playing the tunes they virtually grew up playing. I was amazed listening to "The Bash". This is a real challenging song, and it's country/bluegrass thing is infectous. I looked down and I saw everyone in my rows feet tapping at a frenetic pace. Jerry and Steve play unison lines effortlessly. It was awe inspiring.
Steve said some pretty nice things to the crowd with his usual sarcastic wit. But the one thing he said about playing "for recreational" purposes actually went without saying, because I heard it in the music all night. The pure joy these guys get from playing this material is obvious. Rod's solo towards the end, along with his own pre-recorded section was unique and original. Jerry's playing was right on the money. Dave Larue has as good of chops and feel as anyone playing bass today and what's not to LOVE about T and the textures he adds.
Thanks for a great evening and please return to LA soon.