from Zupe.net, July 7, 2007
written by Zupe home

The Altoona music scene will never be the same. I went out to dinner, with my family, at Burgi's Roundhouse (http://www.burgisroundhouse.com). Besides the food, we were there to hear my friends in their brand new band, "CK & The Boomers" (http://ckandtheboomers.wetpaint.com/). Well, due to a family emergency, Boomer keyboardist John Koeck couldn't do the show. Talk about timing! There I was. There they were. A quick trip home to fetch my gear, and suddenly I'm playing the show!!!!

I had a great time! The fact that I've played with Bob and Patty Helbig numerous times at the UVA Club didn't hurt. And of course, my right hand man and co-writer, Dave Nichols, handles lead guitar duties with this band. We've been working together in the studio for 19 years. Playing with him on stage was the most comfortable transition ever. What a pro!

Since I was set up right next to drummer John Stevens, I was especially glad he uses an electronic kit! I still have nightmares about my band in Germany, and drummer Terry Storm smashing the hell out of the cymbal that was 14 inches from my head!!! (I won't even talk about the time he lost a grip on the drum stick!!!!)

Another of my studio co-writers, Chuck Knepper, also sat in with the band. So the stage was a bit crowded, which made it all the more fun!

Our prayers go out to the Koeck family. As fun as it was to be a Boomer for the night, I only hope you can retake your rightful place soon.