Long Island Journey Tribute

Evolution, Tribute to Journey, Long Island, New York
First of all, I have no idea how Hugo the lead singer of this band can walk down the street or into a store, or anywhere public without someone mistaking him for Steve Perry. He must get hassled on a daily basis by people asking him for autographs! Basically what i'm saying is if hugo sang with Journey, the fans would never know that it wasn't Steve! Oh, did I mention he sounds exactly like him, has the same mannerisms and gestures as him! You have to see this guy to believe it! Anyway, it was an awesome Long Island night March 22, 2003. FInally the essence of spring decided to break through after a long, cold winter. The place, the legendary Dublin Pub of New Hyde Park. I have seen many bands here, and have played this venue a few times myself. Although the club was not filled to capacity, there was a good amount of people who came out to see the band. From the first note of the nite, the audience was captivated and responsive to a very well polished band featuring musicians that were obviously accomplished and knew what they were doing. Journey is one of those bands that if your going to play it, you better play it right. The songs are complex, melodic and dynamic. Evolution seemed to have no problem at all kicking out tunes like "Separate Ways", "Send Her My Love", "Anyway You Want it", and "Faithfully" to name a few. They played for over 2 hours straight with amazing energy, tone, and you could tell how much they all enjoyed what they were doing. Hugo had the lead singer thing down, and interacted with the crowed like a pro. What was most impressive to me was everyone in the band sang! The vocal parts and harmonies were flawless! It sounded like a record (or should I say CD). These guys really did their homework when it came to the vocals. Guitarist Eddie Jelly, who also fronts Cold Shot a stevie Ray tribute band played exceptionally. He had great tone (what do you expect a Les Paul through a Marshall!), great chops and played with an obvious passion for the instrument. Joseph Cumia Bass Guitarist who also plays in Joshua Tree a U2 Tribute band, did an amazing job holding down the low end and rhythm parts. Mike Morales on drums who hit the skins consistently and had an excellent meter! Lance Millard on keyboards who did a great job of playing, as well as matching the keyboard patches to the original recordings. To sum it up in a nutshell these guys kick ass, and I recommend you checking them out if you get the chance. Here is there tribute-band page. Here is there official website.