Red Elvises 2003
By Willie

I have been able to attend three shows this year (so far). The first show was at Rusty’s and was a bit rough around the edges. I must say though that they had only been together for less than a month and the second set was better than the first. I always enjoy going to shows to see old friends and make new ones. I met Kayt, Alex and Avi and met Jon. The highlight of this show for me was “Strip Joint is Closed” with Oleg playing accordion as the only instrument.

Forty-nine days later I saw them at Fitzgeralds in Berwyn. Things were different. For starters there was a light show with RedRon at the controls. Most importantly the music was much improved and they had added a saxophone. Again I met some old friends Heidi, Mike, Linda, and Rikki, and made some new ones. They played two strong sets with many old favorites and quite a few new songs. My favorite part of the show was just before the encore when Adam came out from behind the drums and gave a broken stick to a fan (she was about 4 years old).

Two days later I saw them in Milwaukee at The Globe East with my daughter, Marti. This was their last show at this venue because it is now closed. Once again I met some old friends Heidi, Mike, Li and made some new ones. The show was a little different because they could not use the lights. Everyone had a good time and RedRon told me that Heidi had put together the best Conga Line of the tour so far.

There has been much discussion lately in the Forum and discussion list about the new lineup. I can say that the Red Elvises play Rock and Roll, or actually, Rokenrol. The music is different now but this is the third incarnation I have seen. Go see a show and enjoy yourselves. Make some new friends -- anyone who attends Red Elvis shows has at least one good trait.