Some good stuff here. I DO like Dream Theater. I'm a big fan of a band called Porcupine Tree, that I think you'd like, (start with "In Absentia), then move forward, and THEN backward with those guys. That seems to work best. Also, an offshoot of them called "Blackfield" is pretty awesome. I don't care for what little "Cristian Metal" that I've heard any more than the other stuff. Nickelback doesn't speak to me. Kind of bland pop stuff. My music tastes are pretty difficult to explain. I guess a more comprehensive list would maybe trigger something to cognitive reasoning shrink. Anyway, if Metal does it for you, cool. I also like a LOT of instrumental stuff. Primarily Guitar. I've actually seen Tony McAlpine as a member of Steve Vai's touring band, on of the years I saw him. (Vai is my favorite guitarist). I've seen G3 a couple of times, and Joe Satriani on his own a couple times. I also am getting back into Jazz a bit. I got through this cycles. The constants are Beatles and Yes, because they formed the soundtrack of my life. I associate most the events in my life with a Beatles song (pre-1970), or a Yes song (1971 and beyond). I rolled with Yes through every permutation and member change which has been plethoric to say the least. Most Yes fans are factional. Usually marked by the guitarist of different line ups, (Peter Banks/Steve Howe/Trevor Rabin). I'm part of a small breed who would be called a Yeswhole, as I love it all. Every phase. I'm about to blow a gasket waiting for the first solo album from Trevor Rabin in 23 years (that's not a movie soundtrack). It's coming out May 12, and it's called "Jacaranda", which is the name of his studio in LA. It's supposed to be an all instrumental album just showcasing his guitar and piano prowess in a variety of ways, including bluegrass, jazz and rock. Sounds just about right for me right now. I'll let you know how it is.

Peace

Feels kind of weird just writing on YOUR blog, without you being around much anymore. I hope all is well, and you're inspired to write again. I'll try to get the hang of the letter thing again. I got the new Trevor Rabin, and it is everything I hoped, and then some. No metal on there, I'm afraid, but I know you like all kinds of different music, and he does most kinds on this CD. Some stunning guitar, piano and keys, and bass, (all provided by Rabin), and even great drumming, (by one of Zappa's drummers.). It's so deeply refreshing to have music this different and original in this day and age. I'd send it if I could, but I guess we can't do that. Retirement is getting old fast, so I'm looking for work. Jeanette and Cat still live in Las Vegas, but sadly, since they moved out, we don't see or hear much from them. I was saddened to hear that you aren't hearing from Jeanette either. I'll start work on a letter.

Love you,

Dad