Overall it was a very good show. Joe was fantastic as always. Paul Gilbert is a great new addition, and Bruce Bouillet is good enough to be one of the headliners, not just a second guitar. Their collaboration on a couple of old Racer X tunes really stole the show. Watching two guys play harmony lines in perfect sync with each other, at that incredible speed, is just mind-blowing.

The only thing that kept this from being a really outstanding show was a problem with John Petrucci's tone. He had so much reverb and delay on that it overwhelmed the individual notes. This was a major disappointment - John is such a superb technical player, with such flawless technique, and it was a real letdown not to be able to hear the nuances of his playing. Fast passages were lost under a thick layer of digital goo. John, your technique and guitar tone are as good as it gets. Turn down the mix control so we can hear you!

Other items...the mix was generally good, very much on the loud side (that's a good thing.) The Paramount is a great place to see a concert, not a bad seat in the house. Joe, John, Paul, and company - thank you for a great show and for all that you do. Please keep it up!!!

What a tremendous pleasure! I had the opportunity to shake hands with Joe, Paul, and John before the show. They were very personable and more than happy to sign a few items. Besides a wonderful show, and performances that will stay with me forever, I am most thankful for the accessibility they permit the fans. They never come across as unapproachable, and that truly makes the fans feel valued.

Thank you gentlemen for a wonderful night!