Dr. Hugh Jeffreys
From:
Southaven, MS, USA
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Posted 28 Apr 2002 8:40 am |
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| Yesterday at 5P.M., my wife and I met with Ronnie Miller, Charley's steel man, at Grand Casino, Tunica (25 minutes from our home), who greeted us with tickets to the show. We had dinner and enjoyed much conversation primarily about steel guitaring. Later, we were taken back stage where we met all the band, and then went to Charley's dressing room where we took photos and enjoyed more light-hearted conversation. I told Charley that Ronnie told us that he had gone to Memphis to visit his mother's sister. I said, "I hope you did'nt have to hitch-hike." It took a couple of seconds for him to get my quip, then he laughed. The show began at 8P.M. before a packed house. Our seats were on row 3, directly in front of the group. The monitors were placed such that Charley could not possibly get in front of them---and risk singing off key again!! In fact, on several tunes, he hit it COLD from the top with no cue whatever from the band. One example was Crystal Chandlelier; also where Ronnie produced some beautiful background using his IVL steel synth. The band was well balanced and blended--we should know---we've heard groups there that were so loud, they were distorted. As Charley sang, the backgrounds alternated smoothly between the steel, lead guitar, and fiddle, flowing with appropriately spaced dynamics and Charley sang with perfect intonation. They even played an instrumental number--upbeat with all composing nice ad-libs as they progressed through their solos. The drummer, Derek Spigner's solo was reminiscent of Buddy Rich! I would like to thank the band, Derek, Danny Hutchins (keyboards), Billy Martin (lead guitar), Reggie Rueffer, (fiddle and rhythm guitar)Ron Jones (bass), and especially Ronnie Miller and Charley Pride for their warm welcome and hospitality. Now that we know their Branson schedule, I'm sure we will see them more this year. Best, Hugh & Linda |
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