Eva, Rogie and I had a wonderful four-day cruise with the Ventures February 3rd through the 7th, 2003.

The 2800-passenger Carnival cruise ship left San Pedro en route to Catalina Island and then to Ensenada, Mexico.

The first night's entertainment was a concert in the Starlight Lounge - a five hundred-capacity room with a good stage and lighting. The Ventures performed a hilarious, loose, fun, and tight set of the music they have been keeping world-famous since the sixties. Did you know they are the biggest selling instrumental rock group of all time? 90 million and counting! Wow!

Leon Taylor on drums is a crisp, energetic, focused musician with unrelenting pocket groove. He captures the feel of the Ventures as probably no one else could, being the son of the original drummer, Mel Taylor.

Bob Bogle on bass guitar is the epitome of level-headed, unwavering solidity. His permanent slightly-amplified Mona Lisa smile reveals the simmering joy of many years in the professional arena. I get the feeling that even in the middle of some stage meltdown the smile would still be there, entertained by IT ALL, thinking of the clever quip he would aim toward lifelong buddy Don Wilson.

Don is a big-hearted, high-energy (for a fossilizing codger just-turned-70), comedic ham who just happens to be one of the most engaging and lovable entertainers in the business. Good show, Don! A termite went into a bar and asked, "Is the bartender here?"

Nokie Edwards on guitar is awe inspiring. Nokie is one of the world's best guitarists. His touch on the strings is the gentle loving touch one places on the neck of a sweetheart. His tone is the refined embodiment of years of channeling the higher power - that is the only explanation I can conjure for such a divine sound. His knowledge of guitar belies an uncontrolled love and fascination for country, jazz, classical and rock. Truly a musician's musician, and a hoot, to boot! Thanks for the inspiration, Nokie...I've got your album and I'm learning your licks.
See nokieedwards.org

The Ventures as a whole have a clear, clean, tight sound that stirs magic in the heart. Their presence accomplishes what many groups and individuals aspire to: ENTERTAINMENT!
See theventures.com

On Catalina Island we rented a golf cart to zip around, catching a glimpse of the Wrigley mansion, gardens, and colorful local life. The warm, sunny day prompted a swim in refreshing, clear-blue saltwater.

After returning from our wonderful time on shore, Eve and I checked Rogie into the "Kids Camp," freeing us to attend the clinic (actually it turned into a jam) given by Bob, Don and Nokie. We walked into the room hearing House Of The Rising Sun being performed by the band with Bob Spalding, Alan White, and I'm not sure who else sitting in. I made the casual comment that I could sing that song and before I knew it, was ushered onto the stage. It was fun being the lead singer of the Ventures for one song.

The second nights' entertainment was provided by the masked Los Straitjackets. A hit in Southern California, these guys play instrumental rock, very Venturesque, with some original twists that are refreshing, innovative AND FUNNY! I see a bright future for this band...definitely worth checking out, if you have the chance.
See straitjackets.com

The third night we had an All Star Jam, following an abbreviated Ventures show. The guest artists were Jeff Cook from Alabama; John Durrill, keyboardist/singer/songwriter; Bob Spalding (the fifth Venture) on guitar; Alan White from Yes on drums; and myself on guitar. The professionalism of all the artists involved was evident as they gave inspired, intense performances that absolutely thrilled the riveted audience.

I would have to say that if there was a standout moment of all the performers, it would be John Durrill's performance of the number 1 hit he wrote for Merle Haggard, Misery In Gin. When he finished singing the song to an absolutely hushed house, I found myself in tears, moved by one talented musicians' inspired insight and uninhibited performance. Thank you, John for giving from your heart something that speaks the unspeakable to so many who need to hear it!

The fourth day Alan gave a fun clinic in which he used drum pads to trigger various samples that, in the context of his solo drumming performance, were very effective. After playing intensely and very well for about twenty five minutes, he addressed the audience for questions. He talked about experiences with John Lennon and Eric Clapton, performing at the Toronto Give Peace A Chance concert; partying with Jimi Hendrix, including one story that I won't repeat; as well as talking about the general music scene in England at that time. Very fascinating and fun to listen to! Thanks, Alan for sharing all that. He then invited myself and Bob Spalding up to play Imagine, Slow Down, and Hey Jude. Needless to say, I felt very honored while singing Imagine with the guy who played on the recording of the timeless classic! Great fun, Alan and Bob!
See alanwhite.net

Next, a rising star from England took the stage, Zoe McCulloch. This sixteen-year-old guitarist performed with a CD of prerecorded material. She came off very professionally, playing her parts cleanly and precisely. I think she has a shining future - you'll want to follow her!
See zoemcculloch.com

Tracy Alan Moore didn't become Elvis as he took the stage. He didn't impersonate him, although at times there were striking similarities and familiar gestures, partly because Tracy is from the deep south as well. Tracy Alan Moore paid tribute to an American music treasure. His show was clever to say the least. The pacing, song selection, and ferocity of spirit were thrilling.  I was very fortunate to have been asked to play on a few songs, as Elvis has always been one my favorite musicians. Alan on drums, Jeff on guitar, and me on bass and did we have fun?! We played Hound Dog, All Shook Up, and Mystery Train (and maybe one more...these things tend to blur). WE ROCKED! The highlight of Elvis for me was the way Tracy closed his show, paying tribute to all the people in and associated to the armed forces; firemen and policemen and all who give to their communities; and offering kudos to all those who organized and pulled off the Baja Cruise. Tracy, you are a big-hearted class act! Your spirit is pure and beautiful and you deserve all the success you are surely going to reap! Thank you, my friend.
See tracyalanmoore.com

The fourth and final night was bittersweet, as we all knew the trip was nearly over. The Ventures put on an inspired show, clearly illustrating why they are the best instrumental rock group in the world. Near the end of their set, Alan, Bob, and I were invited up to play Hawaii Five O and Wipe Out. I must say we pulled out the stops and cut loose with some kick-ass rock and roll!  Thanks, guys!

In summation, it feels like a new family has been made...new friends, the kind you know will always be there even if separated by miles and years. Even some long time friends' feelings were reignited with a new sense of urgency that silently said, "Hey - I don't know what's going to happen with this crazy world, but by God, I LOVE YOU!"  And that will never change, my friend!

Deep, deep thanks to all of you who helped...you know who you are!

And heartfelt thanks to those responsible for my being there!

Rog