COPE 06/09/12 RINGSIDE CAFÉ

In the past, if you’d asked me who my favorite performers were, I could have given you a top 5 or top 10, in some semblance of order. More recently, however, I have seen and heard a number of truly outstanding musical performances, to the point where all I can say is: in the moment, this is as good as it gets. I can list 10 or 15 bands who have delivered truly transcendent shows, and I can honestly not distinguish among them.

The Lee Boys, for me, reached new heights last fall and consistently deliver heavenly music – in more ways than one. Shak Nasti is the consummate power trio, all three members constantly driving each other nightly through funk, jazz, and rock. Bogus Pomp, the Zappa tribute band, has always been internationally regarded, but they were absolutely stratospheric in a recent performance including originals and a stunning reading of “21st Century Schizoid Man” in additional to their usual treats.

Which brings us to Cope, an incredible quartet from the Tampa area. They are heading out on a much-deserved national tour, launched by a pair of shows at the Ringside in St. Pete. As great as I thought the dozen shows I’d seen before were, their Saturday show was a quantum leap beyond. Everything clicked. For starts, the sound was PERFECT. At first, bassist Kenny Stadelman stood out, playing from another galaxy, I think. Then I honed in on Juanjamon, whose tenor sax work was better than ever, and that was overshadowed by his awesome keyboards. Then came the realization that Dave Gerulat’s time on the traps was impeccable. Dennis Stadelman was killing it on guitar, and I saw this was truly an all-star effort.

Get your ass out to see Cope when they visit your area, and be sure to check out these great Florida bands and more including Bride of Chaotica, Burnin’ Smyrnans, the Heavy Pets, Infinite Groove Orchestra and J2K.

Am I a cheerleader? You bet! I have a vested interested in great music!

http://therealcope.com/COPE.html

RIDIN' HIGH IN APRIL... SHOT DOWN IN MAY...

Just got this Facebook post from Tim Turner, guitar player and vocalist for our beloved Shank Nasti:

Sorry to say that Shak Nasti as you know it is calling it quits in August. I'm moving, Rion is playing with Blue Man, and Matt has his irons in various things. Glad we were able to record a final cd, thanks to everyone. I might keep Shak going up north with a different line up, unless I find a good stable job with a nice 401k and their structure allows growth and advancement. We're doing a farewell show in August sometime, so keep an eye out! Thanks for the support throughout the years!

Love,
Tim

Where is the Cope tour taking them? North? How far? I can't get on their site from furk!!!! ARGHHH!!!

I see 21 shows listed, including:
GA, SC, NC, VA, KY, PA, OH

No ME, I'm afraid.

Thanks TYS! I'll have to scope it out when I get home...

Anyone know the Ohio dates? I can't find them.

Aug 14 Columbus
Aug 17 Logan

http://therealcope.com/COPE_-_Live_Shows.html

I was hoping they were hitting the Peach Festival but noooooo, they're in FL then...

COPE will be playing at Skippers Smokehouse in Tampa on July 13th.
Great place for a show if youv'e never been
I am planning on going, hope to see you there!!!!

No NY Dates