Russell Thompkins and the New Stylistics

[ralpht]

I suppose if I have ever commited any crimes, the fact that it took me until this past Saturday to catch Russ and the guys would be one of my worst. If I need an excuse I could say they were usually appearing some place a long ways away from me. And it is true. However, now That I caught the act, I need to expand my travel comfort radius to, say, China.

What a show. All pro from top to bottom.

The band:
Abdul Beatty...Guitar [[this dude tore it up)

Lonnie Henson.Bass [[total pure thumping bottom. Just the way I like it. [[I mentioned to Abe during the show that I could feel the bass in my feet)

Keith Williams..Drums If anyone ever reminded me of Uriel Jones, this dude took the prize. [[most that know how I operate, know how I love watching good drummers work. I was one happy dude)

Adrienne Garner keyboards. A very tasty player weaving in sweet string pads and such, adding to the total power of the band.

Gary McKean
Rod Berry
Henri McMillan Horns: These three guys played sax, trumpet and trombone and you would swear you were listening to a full brass section. Great job, guys.

Kenny Thompson: Keyboards and musical director. More about him in a moment.

The Stylistics:
Russell Thompkins
Jonathon Buckson Beyond description. You will just have to see these three guys sing to experience it for yourself.
Raymond Johnson

Pianoman, PianoDr, or just plain Kenny Thompson. The absolute best at what he does. A musical director is no gig that could be confused with a walk in the park. I watched him work during the sound check. Not only going over parts with the band, but attending to every detail in the sound. This is one busy dude.Come show time he is at his keyboard and directing the band. And the show was TIGHT.

I'll probably be adding some thoughts to this initial post along with a few pics, but I know Smooth has a few things he would like to add, so I'll post this much for now. More to come.

I just want to add that it was a pleasure to meet Russ and the guys. They are all that I expected to be. Real pros, through and through. I'm sorry time was limited and we didn't get time to just hang out and talk. Next time, guys. And there will be a next time.

[smooth]

First let me thank Russell Thompkins and the New Stylistics for their Hospitality and Professionalism.Please come back this way again soon!
Russell you are the most amazing voice in the business... God Blessed you with a Falsetto from Heaven!!!
I am an old School Vocalist from Jersey City,New Jersey and I Know Great Vocalist!!
New Stylistics you are polished,professional and Soulful to the maximum!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed Rock and Roll Baby,Betcha By Golly Wow,Hurry Up This Way Again, People Make The World Go Round,Ain't No Turning Back,Break Up to Make Up,
You're a Big Girl Now,You Are Everything and Everything Is You,You Make Me Feel Brand New. Kenny you are the Man!!!! and sincerely appreciated. If Ralph and I may ever be of assistance to you please contact us.May God continue to bless and Keep all of You.
Abraham Smooth Wilson

[goomba]

Hey Ralph:

Thanks for going. Glad you got to see for yourself!! I will not miss you next time Happy Birthday to You and Russ

[ralpht]

Thanks Goomba. Next time for sure.

[ratjr]

Ralph,

Me and the fellas were honored to meet you and your crew. You're a true Motown legend. Next time we'll have to make time to just hang out. Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to come to see us. You're welcome at any of our shows at any time.

Look forward to hanging out with you in the future.

RATJr & TNS

[PianoMD]

Hey Ralpht
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING!! SEE U SOON....

[ralpht]

A few sound check shots.

[tsull1]

Good report, thanks. Outdoor show, cool? Where was it, Sacramento?

Russell, remember, the Pacific Northwest has some great casino venues! Spirit Mountain Casino, Chinook Winds Casino, and Emerald Queen Casino. All have strong soul music schedules ... you're up next!

[ralpht]

The venue was at Cache Creek Resort about 30 miles outside of Sac. It was rather warm[[100) that day.

[ralpht]

I had some tech problems regarding pictures but was able to get this one down loaded to my computer.Attachment 3301
Yours truly with Russell and the guys.