Call to Duty

I'm not sure if people don't understand the process of recording or how it works but bands are recorded and then mastered. I have seen the US Army Field Band live and they blew me away. When I listen to recordings if I want them to seem like they are really there I have to put them on my good stereo and turn up the volume. Sometimes I just have to turn up the volume on my hearing aid. In either case this album has tons of emotion. These proud professional soldiers perform with excellence and power. Each track makes me think about all the sacrifices that have been made for our freedom. This excellent group of tracks gives you the feeling of the vastness of our nation and the massive influence we have had on the world. Tracks like Summon the Heroes and Let Freedom Ring make me proud to be an American citizen. If you want some really rousing music try the Sousa's Greatest Hits by the US Marine Band.

You know, as a professional brass player, it's sad to hear premier military bands these days playing with zero emotion. Yes, it's true they play very accurately, but some of the best high schools in the country play accurately. My biggest complaint is they play too soft. Forte should be FORTE not mezzo piano! I think it's safe to say this is one of the many reasons why concert attendance for concert band and wind ensemble performances has dramatically declined, and military bands are on there way out! Play with conviction people! Nobody wants to hear safe, especially live!