I remember when Living Colour made it's debut in the music scene. I was blown away by their mixture of so many musical styles meshed into a rock sound. I heard jazz, funk, raggae, metal, hard rock, and pure rock & roll blended into a unique sound that was only Living Colour's sound. Everything was excellent. Voice, drums, bass (later replaced by Doug Wimbish that I think only improved that section), and a wild guitar sound that reminded me of all the greats blended into a new style. Again, a unique and refreshing sound that totaly negated the idea that rock was dead.

However, I had one preocupation. The band's members were all African-Americans. Before you start shouting "prejudice" let me explain. What I mean is that I saw/heard an outstanding talented group of musicians play rock music the way it is supposed to be played but, I was afraid that the industry would hold their heritage against them. Not only that, I knew from experience that there would be "white people" as well as "black people" that would put them down only because of their color. The same thing happened to Jimi Hendtix. Many Afro-Americans did not think Jimi had any reason to play "white man's" music and vice versa from the "white race." I know many people don't want to touch such a subject for fear they might be misinterpreted but, I have one life to live and I'm going to Rock it. I trully believe that if Living Colour was a "white group" they would have gained more success than they enjoy today. I realize this is a bold statement but, I believe it has merit. There is no doubt in my mind that this band would be ten times more popular than Dream Theatre if they had the proper "skin colour."

Venice was the first time I saw Living Colour live. I had some CD's of the band but, never saw them live. Well, ladies and gents, the band is ten times better live than the recordings! The live performance blew me away. All members were excellent. I was particularly taken by Doug Wimbish because I never saw a bass player play with so much intensity and diversity. His peace "Terrorism" was awesome! Still not a recorded piece as of yet but, I wish he would record it. Doug also played some Hendrix on the bass! Will calhoun demonstrated to be a master on the drums and as a human beign. When I met him he was so down to earth, gentle, and a pleasure to share thoughts with. Vernon Reid had me scratching my head trying to figure out how he was playing the guitar the way he was and how he generated sounds from his guitar I never imagined. Corey Glover is a passionate singer and really gives meaning to all the lyrics. And that is where this band is complete. Not only do they have outstanding music but, the same intensity and care is taken with their lyrics. Lyrics that mean something and just don't repeat themselves for the sake of filling in the song.

I was fortunate to meet their road manager and was given a second opportunity to photograph them in Milano. Ever since I got home from Venice all I did was tell my wife how great the band was and that I was taking her to Milano to see them. I told her that this is a band she needed to see at least once in her life because they Rock and are Great! We went to Milano, mingled with the band and enjoyed a fantastic concert. If you never attended a Living Colur concert you must make it a point to see them. Can't wait to see them again.