To: Carrot Styx Fans

[Monker]

Monker, welcome back to the Styx Group - LOL I guess there's not much to talk about since the Journey Forum is gone.

I have always been here...I just do not see much of a reason to post to a Styx forum where most of the posts are people putting down Styx.

Since I'm behind on all these fun posts, I don't know if this was answered, Dennis' last 2 shows sold out, so they weren't half empty.

As you say, on 'other' forums I am on I read posts from DENNIS fans who say the venue was half full. And, it was definitely that way at the concert I saw.

Just to let you know, he's working on a new cd with new songs.

Yeah, so is Journey. I'll believe it when it's released.

Did you know that he doesn't need to tour 100-300 dates a year?

What does that have to do with anything? I doubt Styx 'needs' to tour that many dates a year either...But, they do because they love it. So what?

He's happy doing what he's doing and enjoying life right now. He can do what he wants when he wants. He can make his own schedule and not have band members or a record company making all of his decisions.

That is so full of misdirection. Who was making all of the decisions in Styx between 1978 or so and 1993? It's too bad that he came to treat Styx like his back up solo band.

This is the same for many musicians. Since you love Journey so much, this is the same for Steve Perry. He can do what he wants when he wants too.

Except Perry had enough sense to not sue the band he was once a part of.

Monker, I do have to laugh at one of your posts about Styx/Reo selling out at the Iowa County Fair. If they sold out at Madison Square Gardens or a huge Arena/Stadium then I'd be impressed. When I saw Carrot Styx in 1999 at a county fair, they sold out too. The show was free.

Did I ask you to be impressed? The question was asked when was the last time styx performed to 10,000 people, with the exception of the Main Event tour. I gave the answer. It's not my fault that you guys don't like the fact that it happened.

As for the rest of you misdirection -

It was a state fair, not a county fair. The fact is that the Iowa state fair is one of the largest and most popular in the nation. They are NOT free concerts. Unless you think $35/ticket + fair admission is free.

I never laughed so hard when I saw these women in their 30's and 40's and quite beautiful - EGAD, throw lingerie up on stage to the Carrot Styx boys. Then some of them had little carrots made on the underwear and attached a few to the bras. TOO FUNNY I can see if the guys were in their 20's, but sheesh.

So what do you care if a group of people have fun throwing underwear on stage? Who cares, they're having fun. It's just a big joke between the fans and the band. It's a pity that the only real fan interaction Dennis has is getting some bathwater drinker to yell, "YOUR STYX!" so he can yell, "Thank you uncle Jerry!" back at them...which happens at every concert.

Monker, to me, Dennis' concerts are very OUTSTANDING!!! That's my opinion and I enjoy going to them and I will keep going to them.

Sure you do. But, I doubt there are enough people out there who agree with you...and I bet if he tries another tour some of these venues won't book him because of ticket sales.

Hey Monker, I'm a huge Dennis fan, but I still post happenings for the Carrot Styx fans too so there's a lot to talk about. If you go back and read the past postings, you'll see that a few people on here have made a lot of sarcasm comments about Dennis too. It works both ways.

You're right, it works both way...and I'll represent 'one way' much more often.

Again, read most of my posts, Dennis is working on a new studio album, same as Carrot Styx!!

Yeah, and since Styx has a label to release it, I think we'll see that one much sooner then we'll see an album from Dennis. Perhaps you can join the dwindling crowd who believe Steve Perry has a comeback album in the works.

Did you know that Glen has a new cd out?

Of course. But, I'm not much of a Glen fan outside of Styx. Although he did write and perform on a few of Neal Schon's solo albums ("Schon & Hammer" and "Late Nite") and Neal wrote and performed on "Heros and Zeroes". Over all I think he sounds like a kinda Bruce Springsteen wannabe...especialy on things like Slaves of New Brunswick.

Did you know that Chuck opened up a restaurant down in Florida?

Nope.

I will continue to tease about another recording of "Blue Collar Man". It's very funny, to me. Right now I think there's 12+ versions of the song. Is it me, or is that a little crazy?

Again, what difference does it make? It doesn't matter what they would do, you'd still complain. If they would have done "Renegade" (which, IMO, has a more natural bluesy sound), you would complain that they just did a take on Cyclorama...and that it was just another dig at Dennis.

Chicago is his hometown, he sold out in Chicago this last time in January (I was there).

Of course I know that. Steve Perry sold out a few shows on his FTLOSM tour. But, overall the tour barely broke even. IMO, Dennis is going to have the exact same problem.

Monker and ChicagoStyx, instead of complaining about Dennis why don't keep everyone posted on any new Styx happenings - or do I have to do that too? LOL

Why don't you keep people informed of Dennis happenings instead of complaining about Styx?

Oh by the way guys, I didn't know this was a competition between Dennis vs. Carrot Styx to see who was doing better!! Does it really matter?

Of course people are going to compare the two. How could they not?

[ChicagoSTYX]

If you want to see a rock concert... see STYX

If you want to see an easy listening show of some rehashed styx songs and some failed show tunes ... see Dennis.

It's that simple!

[piecesofeight]

If you want to see a rock concert... see STYX

If you want to see an easy listening show of some rehashed styx songs and some failed show tunes ... see Dennis.

It's that simple!

Easy listening? At least 70% ROCK songs, with a rock band AND ORCHESTRA?

You knew you would get replies with this one.

Rehashed Styx songs-and uh, the current Styx doesn't do this at their shows, using some of the songs from the guy you are saying is playing re-hashed Styx songs.

[classicstyxfan]

So ChicagoStyx has annointed himself Judge of what is and what isn't Rock and Roll ? Cool........Now I know where to turn anytime I am confused about labeling a band, song, or performer........

I'm sorry ChiStyx, but that term is not one you get to reign over, and you obviously havent turned up the volume on DDY's DVD on a decent Stereo ( minus the Hunchback stuff, of course ) if you don't think it qualifies.

We're all entitled to our opinions here, but it's not as "simple" as you want to make it. In your world perhaps Rock ands Roll is a narrowly defined term, but I believe that puts you squarely in the minority.

[SuiteMadameBlue]

ChicagoStyx says:

If you want to see an easy listening show of some rehashed styx songs and some failed show tunes ... see Dennis.

What? Did I miss something here? What songs does Carrot Styx sing at their concerts,all new songs? Which songs are "rehashed" at Dennis' concert?

[Ash]

"Jealousy!
Got a hold on me.
And my foolish mouth
won't let me be
Can you almost see my face
as he's out-selling us
I can't control my jealousy"

[ChicagoSTYX]

By "rehashed" I mean that he is taking STYX songs and redoing them in a more easy listening - softer way. (I feel the same way about STYX redoing Blue Collar Man as a blues song) Dennis has to do STYX songs at his shows or no one would be there. The people I have talked to who have been to his show said it was boring and laid back. I prefer a more high-energy show. Maybe he feels he cannot compete with STYX if he were to try to do the songs the way they were recorded. He also keeps shoving his Hunchback songs down your through. That show played for about 2 weeks in some small Nashville theatre 7 years ago and has never seen the light of day since. He could not even get the show produced in his own hometown of Chicago. Is there anyone out there who can say that Hunchback has been a success? Dennis has gone in a different direction that he seems to enjoy; it’s just not my kind of music.

[classicstyxfan]

I used the Hunchback songs as a chance to use the restroom when I attended DDY's show ( Sorry Dennis ) and so did several others who arrived at the restroom within minutes of me.

I've always loved the marriage of Rock and Roll and Orchestral
styles...The Moody Blues, ELO and others have used this kind of format successfully. The opportunity to hear different arrangements of these songs that I have head in concert several times in their original incarnation was cool......not head banging, R&R but in most cases not "easy listening either.

On both sides of the "divorce" I can feel the absence of the missing members......On Dennis CD, God bless Dawn Marie, but to me it sounds more like Donnie and Marie are singing backup on Rockin the Paradise....and I'm sorry, but the new Styx harmonies are not up to par with those of Classic Styx..... Burtnik and Gowan hit the right notes and all, they just dont possess the gifted voice that Dennis brings to the table.

I can appreciate that DDY's new act doesnt appeal to everyone, nor does the current incarnation of Styx, both sides have their merits, but neither can measure up to what was the amazing collaboration that once was.

[Eric]

1) This forum is no where near as nasty as the Journey one was.

2) Monker's posts are among the best on any board he is on. He is entertaining, knowledgeable and consistent. I don't feel he contributed much if at all in the demise of the Journey forum.

3) I've never seen DDY or ClassicStyx, but I have been very entertained 4x by currentStyx. I probably would not have had this opportunity if the band and DDY did not go their own ways.

4) Journey is a clear headliner IMO, but Styx was absolutely fantastic last summer - and probably earned the closer spot some nights. Even their new tunes went over well with the folks.

5) While I don't love Cyclorama, I do like it, and I respect bands for coming out with new music. To be honest, I don't love most albums, even by my favorite bands. Cyclorama has 4-6 songs I enjoy, which is damn good I think. I think its awesome to be releasing things in 5.1.......and I think its great that a label has interest in Styx.

6) I think DDY fans get more from him than Perry fans get from Perry. I also think its their right to do as little as they want. I don't understand why DDYonlies and Perryonlies have to insult the bands for carrying on and entertaining their fans. It is frustrating and annoying.

7) I hope Journey and Styx continue performing live for years to come. I just wish Journey would release a new album ASAP. I also hope Styx is working on new material or planning to in the near future. You have to release new music - it is what separates compelling bands to notso compelling bands (REO) in my opinion.

[styxfanNH]

What is the surprise here. We all agree that classic styx is nothing like either the current incarnation of styx or dennis'.

To me, Dennis has always stereotypically represented the softer or ballad side of Styx, JY the harder side, and Tommy both.

It should be no surprise that Dennis would gravitate more toward an orchestral sound or thatrical presentation.

It should aso not be a surprise that the Jy led version of Styx leans more to the harder side of Styx.

What made the band great in their hey day was their ability to blend the styles of all three throughout a song or album and not slant one way or another. Both have hurt the band in their classic sense as each has moved in a direction that is pretty much avoiding what the others brought to the table.

[bugsymalone]

I can appreciate that DDY's new act doesnt appeal to everyone, nor does the current incarnation of Styx, both sides have their merits, but neither can measure up to what was the amazing collaboration that once was.

Summed up quite well, Classic. This it the crux of the whole argument and it all boils down to MOST fans missing what once was and will never be again.
So, we will take our places at DDY concerts, Neo Styx concerts, either/or, both/none. THAT is the bottom line.

The divisions come along what kind of Styx music appeals to which fans.

Dennis is doing one type of show. Clearly. He infuses what has always been his strong suit, melody and his amazing voice, into all aspects of his show and presents what he wrote and performed with Styx, what he recorded as a solo performer, and some of his strongest numbers from The Hunchback.
Take it or leave it, but many concert attendees are coming home very happy with what they saw and heard.

Neo Styx is doing its type of show and is getting enthusiastic responses from its fans. No question and no argument from me.

The bottom line fact is these shows are quite different and that is how it should be.

Some are seeing the two sets of tours as competing but that is a bogus argument. These are two entirely different productons that happen to share some of the same music simply because the most identifiable Styx music is what Dennis DeYoung wrote.

Otherwise these are very different sounding (and looking) concerts. Talent is to be had on both sides, I just happen to think that the talent scales tip very heavily in Dennis' direction.

Bugsy

[Monker]

Easy listening? At least 70% ROCK songs, with a rock band AND ORCHESTRA?

That is ABSOLUTELY how they are presented. They are performed in a 'sit down and listen...' atmosphere. There is absolutely no encouragement to stand up and sing along, or clap, or whatever.

Rehashed Styx songs-and uh, the current Styx doesn't do this at their shows, using some of the songs from the guy you are saying is playing re-hashed Styx songs.

Almost EVERY song from BOTH are 'rehashed' songs.

So ChicagoStyx has annointed himself Judge of what is and what isn't Rock and Roll ?

Dennis isn't even trying to put on a 'rock show'. If you believe that then perhaps you ARE fooling yourself. By his own admission he is doing theater mixed with classical mixed with pop/rock. That's NOT a rock concert.

[classicstyxfan]

Monker, you and I will have to agree to disagree on this one.....

The Styx songs in Dennis show, including:

Rockin in Paradise, Lady, Lorelei, Come sail Away etc feature all of the classic instrumentation you find in Rock and Roll Music,

Electric Guitar, Bass, Drums, Keyboards, and Vocals, they are palyed at a volume consistant with todays Rock and Roll ( Not Heavy Metal loud, but certainly loud enough )

The Orchestration is in addition to the core group of musicians, and adds an extra layer of sound, in a few places it replaces a keyboard solo. I will admit, there were a few songs I missed the 2nd guitar part on, and I'll agree with you that it's not the kind of show where you pull out your bic lighter and hold it over your head , smoke a joint and call out for Freebird ! ( or Renegade ) And I agree if that's what you are looking for you are infinately better off checking out a Styx show.

But I still say it's a Rock N Roll show with a few show tunes thrown in.

[yogi]

These are GREAT. Monker goes slumming on the Styx board after the Journey board is closed down AGAIN.

Funny posts. The argument goes on.......................................

[classicstyxfan]

Hey ! who set the wayback machine to 2004 ? Looks like I was a little off about the 2014 wheelchair tour(s)

[gr8dane]

Hey ! who set the wayback machine to 2004 ? Looks like I was a little off about the 2014 wheelchair tour(s)

Hey Classic.
Nice of you to swing by.
Where did the time go.

Did you change your mind about having kids ?

[yogi]

Welcome back KOTTER errrrrrr

WELCOME BACK CLASSIC!!!!

[classicstyxfan]

I stop by every few months to see if anything has changed........I rarely post because, well I dont have anything to add to the conversation that's not a rehash of something I already said here.

I will say this - I bought the GI/PO8 DVD, and I thought Lawrence sounded great on it ! Something I never thought possible. In fact, I think they should have him share duties on JY's songs. Let JY sing the parts he can still sing and let Larry handle the parts he can't do anymore. Aside of that, well done !

These days I waste most of my internet time on facebook ragging on politics.

[Toph]

Funny to look back at this 10 years later and see how wrong Monker turned out to be. Can't say I'm surprised.