This had to be the best outdoor gig I've ever seen and heard. Of course the Sons Of Champlin are the most awesome musicians on earth, but this was really special. There was a lot of love shining through the smiles of the band and the fans, along with the sunshine and wonderful weather. The Sons were so hot they were smokin'. The mix was so close to perfect, it was right "in the pocket". I couldn't have asked for anything more. The Sons just seem to get better and better.

Geoff Palmer (Hammond B3) - David Schallock (bass guitar)

Here's some quotes from members of AOL and The Champlin Mailing List.

" Just got home from the PDX gig. What a rip !!! We had a great time, heard an awesome band, and what a great place to have an outdoor show. The Oaks was fabulous. From the opening note, bass and drums just kicked it!!! Great sound for an outdoor show, no swirling, mushed up, feedbacking, pa. Hats off to the crew, for great sound !!!

	All hail, Bill & Co. They came, they played, they kicked ass, conquered, and still had time to greet fans after the show. Very special thanks to Bill for taking the time to talk to and autograph my 8 years old son Kyles ticket, he is so proud of that, beaming from ear-to-ear. It was great to meet and talk to Mic. Just how the heck can someone be so good at trombone, and trumpet?" - Keith
Bill Champlin (synthesizer)

"I've been a fan of Bill Champlin since he joined Chicago in 1982. Through Bill, I have found The Sons, and thankfully since the Sons have come to Portland, I have found that I enjoy seeing them play live more than I enjoy anyone else. Having witnessed 2 of the most amazing concerts I've ever seen (and believe me I've seen a lot), I have to tell you that I can't wait for them to come up to Portland again.

But the best part of it all is seeing great professional musicians that actually appreciate the crowd that comes to their show, and when the crowd is standing on their feet cheering, they look almost humbled by the adulation. It is hard to explain, but it is really nice to see. So thank you "Sons" and I will be looking forward to your next appearance." - Dave Jepsen
	James Preston (drums)

And now, some comments from my favorite trumpet & trombone player, originally posted on AOL.

"Thanx to all of our Portland Peeps and Northwest Abnormals for showing up and supporting us in such a lively fashion. Kate, you're the best. Dave, you're the man. Thanx also to Sheila and Sharon for making the trip. That's what REAL fans are like. Thanx too, to Bill for letting me play. I wanna go back and do it again, with both lips." - Mic

Mic Gillette (trumpet) - Tom Saviano (saxophone)

Mic, thanks for your kind words. I wouldn't have missed being there for anything and I know Sheila wouldn't either. I agree, Kate and Dave are two very special people indeed. And so are you. :-)

Terry Haggerty (guitar)	Geoff Palmer (vibes)

The big smile on Terry's face in the picture above says it all. You could feel the joy! There was a lot of energy flowing throughout the night. When the crowd got to its feet and began to dance, it was amazing. The Sons definitely turned on the lights in Portland... and it was a magical experience.

David Schallock	Mic Gillette & Tom Saviano

Thank you Bill, Terry, Geoff, Dave, James, Mic, and Tom. Y'all are the best! Your talent is beyond compare and your warmth and friendliness are appreciated by the fans who become part of the "Sons family" just by connecting with the music.

	Special thanks go to the "Sons family" members who made this trip very special indeed. Kate, you're a great hostess and tour guide in addition to being a wonderful friend. Thanks for everything. I had a blast, tons of laughs, and I can't wait to do it all again. Dave, you're very special. Not everyone can be a great organizer, a cool chauffeur, a lot of fun, and a genuine nice guy to boot.
Terry Haggerty (guitar) - James Preston (drums)

Sheila, it was wonderful to finally meet you! Let's do it again. :-) Dara and Kalena, it was great to see you both again. Y'all are a lot of fun and such sweet people. It was good to finally meet Dave Jepsen, Valerie, Mike Sherwood, Keith, Carol, and others whose name I'm sure I've overlooked. Renee, Gail, and Stephanie, it was nice to see you again too. It's cool to know that I've met so many wonderful people through the Sons' music.

Bill Champlin

Visit the official Sons Of Champlin web site for upcoming performance information and much more.

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