Four years between shows is way too long for me to wait to see my favorite music combo, The Uptones. I saw them @ the benefit they threw recently for the NorCal fire victims @ the Ashkenaz in Berkeley, CA. It was so enjoyable, it was the kind of music show I’ve come to appreciate – meaningful songs and superior playing from a combo who likes each other, and likes performing together. I only wish they wouldn’t wait 4 more years to have another show. The Uptones’ horn section is magnificent, and the solos by Adam Beach, Jeanne Geiger, and Jay Sanders display a true mastery of their instruments. It was a pleasure to witness the sheer joy of playing from the band members. I think the fun had on stage by the Berkeley High School band founders Ben Eastwood, Eric Din and Paul Jackson (who’ve been performing together since the early 80’s when they started), along with their tremendous drummer, Mikey Stevens, is infectious and exactly what you’d expect from a “30-plus years tight” group. I glowed for days, after witnessing the performances of 12 GR8 (well known only in the Bay Area) original songs, by this talented band. Being in the same room with that much music, wisdom, and joy was worth the price of admission!