Procol Harum at Longwood Gardens, PA, USA

What a wondrous setting for a concert. I have missed only one Procol tour of the USA since 1970, and I must say; this was a gem.

A hot, muggy, night near the City of Brotherly love didn't dissuade the multitude of fans who waited anxiously for the boys to strike that first chord. And what a chord it was, Geoff hit the first note of Cerdes; and I knew we were in for a special evening. Wow. The first song, and already I can go home happy? But wait: Broken Barricades (did the band know I was wearing a BB tee-shirt?) – perfect. Kudos to Mr Dunn for putting his own stamp on the percussion. Well done. The Devil Came From Kansas is a welcome surprise, as I had not seen this one performed live since the 70s. Rock solid, great vocals, and again GD is right in the pocket.

Took me a bit to get used to the new vocal arrangement of Grand Hotel, but really, what's not to love? Wall Street Blues blew me away!  I hope Gary keeps this one in the set list. Strangers In Space was heavier and much more melodic than I remember the live version in 1977. Josh excelled, and Gary's voice soared and whispered as need arose.

If Sister Mary is any indication of what is in store for us on the new studio album, we are truly in for something special. A Salty Dog never disappoints, and I have come to love Geoff's guitar fills; tasteful with feeling and excellent technique. Conquistador, Whisky Train and AWSoP rounded out a magnificent set. I'll be at Harrisburg on 4 November, and New Jersey a few days later.

Hope to see some of you there.

Shine on!

Buddy Zech
Gettysburg PA, USA