To:  <elp-digest-web@reluctant.com>
      From:  "mark bustamante" <marktv3@earthlink.net>
   Subject:  ELP in L.A. and San Diego
      Date:  9/2/98 10:18 PM

     Hi all. I had front row seats for ELP/Deep Purple in Los Angeles.  The 
     set was the same as other reviews I have read, but I have to include 
     this is truly one of the finest bands around today.  I can't believe 
     they get little airplay here, but lots of giraffe feces is played 
     instead on local FM.

     I have seen the band five times now,(tomorrow will be my 6th), and with 
     that, I hope they will return.  But how long will gentlemen in their 
     fifties want to go on?  What made this evening especially memorable was 
     at the conclusion, Greg looked right at me and I asked for a guitar 
     pic.  Thankfully, Greg can read lips, and he graciously stepped forward 
     and placed one in my hand.  Thanks Greg.

     As I was already planning a weekend in San Diego, I decided to catch 
     that show too!  Alas, I was in the 8th row.  Keith seemed to have much 
     more fun at this show.  The club holds 1500, and I wonder if the band 
     ever misses playing the huge arenas?

     After the show, I got Carl's autogragh, and Greg's as well.  I even 
     said to greg, "Thanks for the guitar pick in Los Angeles last night."  
     He actually gave me a sincere look of recognition.  keith ducked out a 
     side door as there were perhaps 200 of us waiting for them.  Thank you 
     gentlemen for a fine show, and all of us hope for another tour next 
     year.

     Mark