Gino Vannelli live on stage in the Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel Bear's Den Showroom in
Niagara Falls, NY, USA on 17 & 18 October 2009:
GINO VANNELLI fans & their comments:
Dear Barrend & Trees, Bear's Den was such a cool venue for him to preform in, very intimate, not a bad seat in the house! Gino was on fire! Not that he isn't always but he seemed to have just a little more sparkle than usual. I can't even pick a favorite song for this concert, they were all over the top! The little mix up in "A Good Thing" was funny, even Gino seemed to think so. I told Pat "he really is only human" as we chuckled. He and the band looked like they were having a real blast! Maybe he was happy to have completed this tour and anxious to move on to the next leg of his musical journey. Whatever it was made for a fantastic finale preformance in the US! We were in heaven! Did the meet & greet as usual and his photographer, Patty, was gracious enough to take our picture with Gino. I'm excited to get a GOOD picture with him, not like our amateur attemps. We were fortunate enough to visit with the guys in the band again later that evening. They are all so genuine, very nice, down to earth people! Then when we were at the Buffalo airport we ran into Allen and Ross! We had never really met Ross before, what a treat! He didn't seem to mind meeting a coulpe more fan's of his brother. He was very sincere and fun to talk to. We are sooooo glad we decided to go to this final show at the last minute, 1 weeks planning! This was our Christmas gifts to each other, one we'll always treasure! IT WAS MAGICAL!!! Thank you two again for all the great information you provide us concering Gino. We heard a few different whispers of what Gino might have coming up next year, Canada? Mexico? If we can plan it, we'll be there! Looking forward to getting the info needed to order the new CD from Italy as soon as possible. There's no way we're waiting until Christmas for the USA release!
Anyway, it's finally your turn to enjoy Gino's genius again when he gets to Europe. We know, like us, you two will create more magnificent Gino memories that will last a life time.
Number 15 A message from our GINO VANNELLI guestbook dated Monday 10/19/2009 3:28:10pm (19 October 2009) from Orlando C. Monaco in East Aurora, USA with the subject: Just Surfed In this Gino Vannelli Guestbook... Wanted to thank you and the band for an incredible concert on Oct 18th at the Bears Den in Seneca Niagara Casino.
Number 14 A message from our GINO VANNELLI guestbook dated Monday 10/19/2009 3:28:10pm (19 October 2009) from Jim in Buffalo, NY, USA with the subject: Gino Vannelli in Niagara Falls, USA.....
We went to his final tour show at the Bear's Den. The only thing was his sound guy had the music turned up so loud there were times you could't hear Gino. It's a shame these sound guys think that loud is always better. I saw Gino at the Tralf and sound wise the mix of music and Gino's voice was the best. Wake up sound guys, we are here to hear Gino, not for you to drown him out.
Number 13 An e-mail from Valerie H. in the middle of nowhere in Wisconsin, USA Tuesday 27 October 2009 with the subject: Niagara Falls Greetings Berend & Trees - The supreme shameless devotees: Well we survived the "Gino or Bust" trip from Wisconsin to New York. Gino and the band did not disappoint. They were unbelievable. It was a good variety of old and new. Although I would've liked to hear a little more from "A Good Thing." It was my first time seeing him live, after being a fan for over 30 years, so this was without a doubt my best birthday ever. We were able to take pictures, but my live shots are pretty blurry; wrong ASA/ISO. So I have enclosed some photos from after the show. I'm thinkin' I've got the obsessed fan part down. In response to the hair tips for Gino below. I put a teaspoon of unflavored gelatin granules in my juice every morning. It took a couple of months before I noticed the full effects, but my hair is now as soft as silk, very strong, and growing twice as fast as it used to. Although Gino might not fancy the last benefit.
Only 9 more days to go for you guys. You must be very excited!!!
Number 12 An e-mail from a fan with no name in the United States of America Monday 26 October 2009 with the subject: Here I Go Again......
Even without speakers or amps it was going to blow your socks off! I don't know maybe it was just that we knew all the words by heart to each of the songs.
Number 11 An e-mail from Margaret L. in the States Saterday 24 October 2009 with the subject: I saw Gino in Niagara Falls on 10/16
Last Saturday was the 8th time I've seen Gino perform. It felt like seeing an old friend.
Number 10 A few more e-mails from Kathleen & David M. in Detroit, Michigan, USA on Wednesday 21 October 2009 with the subject: Beautiful, B&T!!
Hi B&T...
Yes, photos were allowed, but no flash. And no video or audio recording allowed. And because the venue was so small, we were able to go down the aisles closer to the stage for photos, and during the encore, I just ran down the aisle on the side of the stage and ended up with everyone else at the edge of the stage. So I just kept taking photos, hoping that some would turn out.
I'm pleased with the photos I took, and am looking forward to seeing photos from other Gino fans.
Beautiful, B&T!!
Number 9 Another e-mail from Terry S. Pittsburgh, PA, USA on Tuesday 20 October 2009 with the subject: Bed Head!!
I tried pawning it off on everyone to give it to Gino - no takers!! Even DJ! He said, "oh no honey, you're on your own!" So, I wrote a note saying, "a little something for the rat's nest," and gave it to Sandin! That night during the show, Gino told a story about getting up early for breakfast and going downstairs not worrying about how he looked. He didn't think he would run into anyone. As soon as he got in the elevator he met a woman who asked him how he got his hair to "go that way?" He said it was the miracle of sleep. Then she asked if he was a performer with the Casino, a comedian maybe, because of his funny appearance. I thought, oh shit, wait till Sandin hands him this hair stuff. He'll think I'm implying that his hair is out of control after this lady's comments!! I just wanted to give him something to make it feel nice and shiny for the stage. But it just happens to be called Bed Head!
Number 8 An e-mail from a fan with NO name in the United States on Wednesday 21 October 2009 with the subject: Sounds...
Hi
So thank you B&T very very much for telling me he was playing.
Subject of this e-mail: Pictures.
Message from Mary Lou: Two Automatic slide-shows with pictures from both concerts in Niagara Falls Saterday 17 & Sunday 18 October 2009 and the meet and greet.
When you leave your mouse-arrow on the picture the slide-show stops and when you go off the picture again the slide-show starts again.
Number 6 An e-mail from Patti & Toni in New York, USA on Thursday 22 October 2009 with the subject: WOW!!! GINO strikes again!
Hi Barend and Trees! The weekend was nice since I could drive to this show and be there in an hour! Plus, no time change really helps! The venue was small and intimate and the sound was unbelievable. Ross really does a fantastic job with the sound and the band was really on for these shows. Gino too was having a blast on stage. He told a few more stories and read some of his writings to the audience. He seemed very relaxed. I was able to move aound the small theatre and get some good shots during the shows. Joyce and Toni were there for Saturday and Toni seemed to have a good time. Joyce said this was one of her favorite performances.
I am already wanting more dates here in the US as well as the new CD.
I had an elderly lady hand me a napkin with her name and address on it, along
with a $10 bill. She said I just had to send her some pictures. I gently
placed the napkin and money back in her hand and said I couldn't send her photos
and she would have to go through the managemnet. She was so sweet and looked me
straight in the eyes and called me a "bitch". I have to laugh since that's
really all I can do! I included Toni with Gino and one of Gino and I.
We all miss you and hope to see you soon.
Have fun with Gino being closer to you in the coming months.
Number 5 Another e-mail from Terry S. Pittsburgh, PA, USA on Tuesday 20 October 2009 with the subject: Niagara Falls I did stand in the lonnnnnnng line!! Haha! I waited until the very last bow. I asked him to sign my cd from Vegas. Well actually I couldn't speak as usual, I just pushed it across the table to him. I had it opened to a poem I wanted him to sign. The background on the page was black and so was his pen, so he was trying to figure out where to write and he had to turn the page and then he was waiting for me to tell him my name but by the time I figured it out he already just signed "Gino!" I'm always so nervous and on a 5 second delay around him. Then Patti pushed me around the table for a picture and I muttered something stupid about the show and he said, "nice jacket!" Then I was reallllly embarrassed and of course felt so special but was so shocked I didn't even thank him!!! I had just gotten done telling the girls in line that my son Chris had told me I was going to look like "Michael Jackson" in it. They said no, "maybe Sgt. Pepper!" I guess I got the last laugh! I just want to tell you I already love the new cd page - the background and font color!!! Soooo coooolllll!!!!!!!!!!! I do have an ax to grind with the editors this morning! I was looking at ALL the updates and I have to tell you I smiled so big and deep I threw up a little in my mouth of happyness when I clicked on THE BEST AND BEYOND!!! You should have issued a warning!!! I was over my quota of GOOD GINO PICTURES for the year!!! Vegas, Niagara. DJ walked in. I saw him look down at me a couple of times. The next thing I know he walks across the theater, down the steps, tells me to stand up so he can give me a "bear hug." Then he sits down and puts his arm around me to watch practice and talk. Then after the show everyone is done seeing Gino and his two uncles are there for pictures and DJ clears everyone away!
Bottom line -
Number 4 An e-mail from Cyndi Haskins in Pittsburgh, PA, USA on Tuesday 20 October 2009 with the subject: Niagara Falls
Hello Barend and Trees,
Oh well… Quote… “Life is sure beautiful when you’re halfway gone.”
So, I will write my review later and email it to you…right now I am lost for words to describe these two incredible shows
except for, Bravo to Gino and the band…
Number 3 Another e-mail on this early Monday morning of the 19th of October 2009 from ROSS VANNELLI in Niagara Falls, NY, USA with the subject: Ross...
Hi Guys, Great enthusiastic crowd !!!
Number 2 review!!! The editors (B&T) came out of bed this early grey Monday morning of the 19th of October 2009 and saw Kathleen and David's e-mails with attached pictures... And even a comment e-mail from Ross Vannelli!!! WOW!!! All this together made B&T smile, always so good to read good news and enthusiasm about GINO VANNELLI concerts somewhere on this planet and this time so far away in Niagara Falls, NY, USA.
Subject of this e-mail: Gino @ Niagara Falls, October 17 - 2009.
Hi Barend and Trees, The musicians were in fine form. Allan, Sandin, and Reinhard were enjoying themselves. Greg Goebel plays some mean keyboards...and was terrific backing Gino on Canto. The horn trio were a great addition to the band.
Crazy Life They played one encore --> People Gotta Move Following the show, Gino signed autographs and posed for photos. It was a long line to start, but Gino did not keep us waiting very long, and the line moved quickly, even with Gino taking the time for photos. Afterwards, we chatted with each of the guys in the band--Allan, Reinhard, Greg, and Sandin. It was chat one on one and catch up on what they've been up to. Here's a few photos from the October 17 show.
Thanks again for your wonderful website!!
A manual slide-show with 18 pictures of these 2 GINO VANNELLI concerts made by Kathleen and David M. who travelled from Detroit, Michigan to Niagara Falls, New York, USA to see and hear GINO VANNELLI's MUSIC & VOICE!!
Number 1 review e-mail received on Holland time Sunday afternoon 17:37 date 18 October 2009 from Terry & Ken still in Niagara Falls, NY ? or back home in Pittsburgh, PA, USA with the subject: You Gotta Move...
You Gotta Move... And did they/we ever!! The theater is small and we were warned about the sound level down front but we don't think anybody minded. Gino and the Band all performed their hearts out. Sometimes we go into these smaller venues wondering if Gino gets as motivated like at a "Vegas" or bigger show but then once the music starts Gino can only perform his music one way, magically. He just gives his all to every show!!! The same with Ross, the sound has to be Vannelli perfect, no discriminating in favor of venue. Our favorites this show would be A Good Thing, From This Day On, and Brother to Brother, which Gino intro'd with a brief anecdote about he, Joe and Ross. Gino received a well-deserved, standing ovation for Canto!! The only flaw in the fabric I noticed was that they announced a couple times that Gino would be signing autographs after the show, so before the encore people were hustling out to get in line first and may have missed out on the most fun!
SHORT-LINERS: Number 1We sat next to a couple and it was the woman's first time at a Gino concert and the man's second. He had seen Gino years ago. They were, of course, blown away. I asked them if they were going again tonight and they looked at me like I was crazy. Then I explained how every show was different and you don't know when you'll get the chance again.......... I think I convinced them. Number 2 To see Gino and the Band! How often do you get a chance in a lifetime??? WOW!!!!!!!! Number 3GINO VANNELLI: You are one of my hero male singers for more than 30 years! GREAT CONCERT! THANKS GINO! Number 4It is a must see for the music people I belong to. I like most everything he does....but some of his work reaches my soul more than others.
GINO VANNELLI fans & their pre-fun: Sunday 11 October 2009: Pat & Alice in Seattle, WA, USA e-mailed with the subject: WOOHOO!
Dear B&T,
It's a CRAZY LIFE and such A GOOD THING!!!!!!!!!!
Friday 9 October 2009: Carry in New York, USA e-mailed with the subject: Gino Niagara Falls
Hi Guys!
Thursday 8 October 2009: Valerie H., Accounting Manager In Wisconsin, USA e-mailed with the subject: Niagara Falls
I just went online today and got a 3rd row center ticket for the Sunday night show.
I also put this in the guest book, but didn't know if you preferred it via email.
Tuesday 29 September 2009: David and Kathleen M. Detroit, USA e-mailed with the subject: Gino Niagara Falls shows
Hi Barend and Trees, I received our tickets for the Niagara Falls show, so I've scanned one of the tickets for your concert archives.
Your devotion to Gino and his music is extraordinary.
Monday 7 September 2009: David and Kathleen M. Detroit, USA e-mailed with the subject: Gino @ Niagara Falls Casino
Hi Barend and Trees, Gino's name came up last week at work when the subject of concerts came up as another well-known Canadian artist--Randy Bachman from The Guess Who and Bachman Turner Overdrive-- was giving a free concert on the Detroit Riverfront this past weekend. A couple days later as my husband Dave and I were driving downtown before the Bachman show, he happened to ask me if Gino was touring these days, and I had to say that I didn't know. This morning I got online to check and was almost shocked to see that Gino will be appearing in Niagara Falls in October. The reason that I was so surprised is because Dave and I just visited the Niagara Falls/Buffalo area a couple weeks ago to see some historic and architectural sites, and we had been discussing a return trip to do some family research and see a couple sites we missed on our first trip. Gino's concert weekend coincides with one of the two weekends we had been considering for our return trip!! It didn't take long to figure that we were destined to take that trip back to Buffalo!! And s we are attending Gino's Saturday show. Can't wait!!!
Saterday 5 September 2009: Peter from Michigan, USA e-mailed with the subject: Niagara Falls& Gino
Dear Barend & Trees,
Tuesday 1 September 2009: Lady ML from Pennsylvania, USA e-mailed with the subject: Niagara Falls Shows
B&T,
Friday 28 August 2009: Terry & Ken S. from Pittsburgh, Pensylvania, USA e-mailed with the subject: Thanks
Great, we were "lucky" enough to get seats for Niagara Falls (slowly I turned...). I wonder if you can press "sabotage" charges against these ticket sellers who misspell a performers name...
Wow, the Portland show is almost here. My sister called last evening and was telling me all about Multnomah Falls and Lodge, Crater Lake, Mt. Hood......... It was making me sick! Hahaha!!!
Thursday 27 Augustus 2009: Lady ML from Pennsylvania, USA e-mailed with the subject: Re: Gino in Niagara Falls
B&T,
If it is for sale on ticketmaster it should be okay.
Thursday 27 August 2009: Gord B. from Toronto, Ontario, Canada e-mailed with the subject: Gino in Niagara Falls NY
Hello Barend and Trees,
Wednesday 26 Augustus 2009: Lady ML from Pennsylvania, USA e-mailed with the subject: Gino in Niagara Falls
B&T, Tickets went on sale today at 12:00pm and I was able to purchase Row 2 front and center for both evenings.
Do you know anything about these shows???
The Media GINO VANNELLI mentioned in the Niagara Falls Review Canoe.ca in Canada:
Anyone looking to hire a drum teacher would be impressed with Graham Lear's credentials. Imagine learning to play drums from someone who has played for Santana, Gino Vannelli, REO Speedwagon and Paul Anka. Luckily for all the rhythmic hopefuls in Niagara, Lear has settled in Niagara-on-the-Lake and has started teaching from his home. "I have a few kids now, and I'm building up my roster," he said. "There are some really talented young kids around here." Years ago, Lear was one of those really talented kids. "I did have a very normal life, I grew up in a suburban setting and didn't really start to travel until after high school," he said. "Looking back. I'm glad it happened like that." After finishing high school, he travelled with the band Natural Gas to Eastern Canada and the United States. Lear then moved to Montreal, where Gino Vannelli saw him play. Vannelli and his brother, Joe, were just starting a band and looking for someone else to back them. "After he saw me play, he took me back to their basement and played me their demos. They had just returned from L. A.," Lear said. "When I heard their songs, I thought they had a lot of potential." He played with Gino Vannelli from 1973 to 1976, which allowed Lear to make contact with many people who would shape his drumming career over the next few decades. When Carlos Santana's drummer, Ndugu Leon Chancler, decided to leave the band, Santana ordered his producer Bill Graham to track down Lear after hearing him on a Vannelli record. In 1990, Lear's second son, Trevor was born, and he decided he wanted to spend more time with his family. He and his then-wife relocated the family to Portland, Ore., so they could be closer to family and give their sons a more normal life than Los Angeles had to offer. Lear settled down to family life and began teaching drums, until one night when he was playing a gig at a local jazz club and everything changed. "Gino Vannelli relocated there at the same time and we didn't even know. He had signed for one album with Guy Eckstein and they wanted Gino to do a jazzy album," Lear said. "He came into the club and asked me to play and I said of course." As his sons got older, Lear gradually started touring again. He was asked to audition for Paul Anka's band and although Anka didn't attend the audition, Lear was hired by Anka's musical director, Chuck Smith. He is still playing with Anka, which is in part how he ended up in Niagara. He had always intended to return to Canada to be closer to his family in London.
Back Home to the index... Back to all the concert reviews... Or check out the tour dates again... Copyright © 2009 - 2010 Barend and Trees in Holland
| ||||||
I have been listening to you for years but this was my first chance to actually see you live. I wish you and the band all the best on your tour and hope your paths cross WNY in the future sometime.
Winning friends the world over....
bought the CD there and had him autograph it.
Ohhh Geez........
Number 7 WOW!!! It's now Tuesday morning 20 October 2009 and very sunny! The editors (B&T) came out of bed and saw more than 100 pictures in their e-mail box from Mary Lou and Judie from Pennsylvania in the USA.
WOW! I am very fortunate to witness such great performances so often. I have
to stop and realize how lucky I am to get to enjoy the show and all the songs
Gino performs, new and old. I also enjoy this band so much. Greg really has
settled in nicely and he is a sweet guy too. The rest of them are just great
guys, kind and always happy to see the fans.
Gino had fun on stage and was
having a great time. These were great shows and each one had great audiences.
The crowds were screaming and dancing, singing and totally enjoying themselves.
There were a lot of regular fans there and Gino commented that it looked like he
was performing for family and friends from Buffalo to Toronto. We met some new
people and I have just a few meet and greet photos to send off. I got a photo
with Gino that Toni took and she was happy she could do that for me.
It all goes by so fast that you have to really sit down and relive it all to
enjoy it.
Here's the set list: 
An aptitude for percussion leads to great things