This show was a standtill performance due to Weather

July 12, Geneva, AL

Thanks to Tom on r.a.m.d for this review!

Unfortunately, I don't have scores for this show.  Due to the torrential
downpour, the show only managed to "squeeze" out a standstill performance.
With that said, a few thoughts on the standstill performances of Crown
and Magic.

With the show being delayed for what seemed like forever, the crowd was
thrilled to see the standstills begin.  Crown performed (w/o uniforms)
before Magic.  For the number of horns that they have (50 or so), they can
generate quite a bit of volume.  The drumline is very good and extremely
musical in their approach.  However, I must say that I have concerns
regarding their musical book.  It does not "stand alone", being very
dependent on the visual for any effect.  The book appears to be rather
simplistic, relying on impact which obviously is designed to coordinate
with a visual effect (If my information is correct, the large blocks of
sound coordinate with large chess pieces which move around the field). 
Unfortunately, no chess piece......little musical effect.  I look forward
to seeing the total show in Mississippi tonight.  I reserve the right to
adjust my comments based upon a viewing of the entire program.

Magic entered the field "sans jackets", but looked good in their half
uniform.  The horn line is large (62 if my count is accurate) and plays
extremely well.  They have a very mature sound.  The percussion line is
strong, especially the pit.  They play amazing musical lines which
interact with the horns quite nicely.  The battery still lacks
musicianship at the highest level, but is well on their way.  The musical
book is SPECTACULAR!  The show entitled "12 Seconds to the Moon" begins
with a beautiful hymn that I will not soon forget.  The hymn is reprised
later in the program in a much more powerful statement.  The horns are
double tounging like fiends!  The crowd reaction was very strong, with
Magic being the obvious favorite of the evening.  The most effective
moment is the point where the percussion rolls everything in sight to
recreate the sound of rocket engines.  What a great effect!  I look
forward to seeing it on the field with the visual.  

Although the rain dampened the field, it did not dampen the crowd or the
corps performances.  Congratulations to all who performed.  I look forward
to seeing Crown and Magic go head to head over the next few weeks.  It
should be very interesting.

Go South!

Tom
UAB Blazers

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