Alex and myself (go ahead Eric ) thoroughly enjoyed helping out with loading and unloading the equipment for you guys at the Boston and Troy shows. Finding the white zone in Boston could have been a little easier though. Alex in particular thoroughly enjoyed the experience. At 18 years old this is something that he will remember for life, (he can get counseling, don’t worry).

All kidding aside, it was a great experience.  Everyone in the band was an absolute gentleman and pleasure to interface with.  From Jim Ruffi taking the time to show Alex some of his drumming techniques to the big hug Ike gave Alex at the end of last nights gig was a great example of the quality of the people involved in this venture. 

Fridays show in Boston was great, albeit it a little short.  The three friends of Alex that joined us on Friday are musicians who have their own little rocking combo are Zappa fans for life I’m sure.  Being able to turn these young men onto the experience of a live Zappa performance was worth the price of admission alone!

Saturday night’s performance in Troy was amazing! Spanning over four hours with one quick break in-between. You guys are animals! My day job is easy! At 48 years old I’m no longer accustomed to going to bed at 4:30am. I guess I’m getting to old to be a rocker.

Eric was great working with the crews to unload and load the equipment from the truck.  He mentioned at one point that he was not a leader, but is demeanor certainly displays otherwise.  The kids at the school of rock where he teaches are lucky to have him on board. The big heartfelt appreciative hug he gave at the end of the Troy show is more indicative of the true Eric than the hard-edged persona he can sometimes display I’m sure. 

Thanks once again for the wonderful experience and memories that my son and I can share for years to come. 

Keep up the great work your doing in sharing Zappa’s music with all of us Andre’! 

Paul