Search - Michael Band Stanley :: Stage Pass

Into the Great Unknown

David L., May, Sr. | Chesapeake Beach, MD | 05/13/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The artist has gone through many changes over his close 35 year career in the industry...this is perhaps the greatest unknown talent ever to strap on a Fender... A voice many only dream of having, and a command of music unmatched by few. The MSB never rocked like this lineup did, although they enjoyed some commercial success several years later. I have been listening to Stagepass for over 25 years now, and although knowing many of the notes and drumbeats, little extra ticks in the show by heart, I still find it as refreshing as ever. I never take a road trip without it, and it continues to bring downer days back up for me all these years later. The only question remaining to be answered is why the band never got to be the superstars they truly are(and who is the woman on the album cover?) You could take a bite out of her and pray for lockjaw! ;o)



I believe I recently purchased about my tenth copy of Stagepass, what with 8-tracks, cassettes, albums over the years all losing their sound(by being played over and over). It will remain in my collection forever. Highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Standing Room Only

Mr. Richard D. Coreno | Berea, Ohio USA | 07/12/2008

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Back in the 1970s, the double-live album became a launching pad for a number of rock artists to hit the big show of headlining tours in arenas and multi-platinum glory.



Following this pattern, the Cleveland, Ohio-based Michael Stanley Band used their third release on Epic Records to showcase an energetic live show before a fired-up audience at the Agora nightclub, with selections taken from three concerts in October 1976.



Released in 1977, it was given a sendoff on a "world premier" airing on WMMS-FM, then an emerging juggernaut in the industry. It also launched a decade of regional dominance, including consecutive-sellout records at the Agora, The (Richfield) Coliseum and Blossom Music Center. Established headliner's in arena rock like REO Speedwagon and Cheap Trick would be opening acts for MSB in northeast Ohio.



This is perhaps the most renowned lineup - which featured Stanley on vocals and guitar, with singer-songwriter/lead guitarist Jonah Koslen, bassist Daniel Pecchio, keyboardist Bob Pelander and drummer Tommy Dobeck - playing no frills rock-n-roll, with the highlights being Midwest Midnight, Let's Get the Show on the Road and Strike Up the Band.



That MSB did not achieve grand national success does not diminish the power of their live shows and unique connection the group had with fans in their hometown. This could be the best band from the golden age of rock that you may not have heard and Stage Pass is an excellent way to get acquainted with their classic sound."

One of least known best live albums ever!

GRC | Boston | 08/15/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Just put this in your cart and buy it! No weak tracks at all, in fact, I prefer the live tracks on this to the studio cuts. If you like straight ahead good solid rock music, you'll love this. Not being from Cleveland I had never heard of this band when I first listened to it (many, many years ago) and it has remained a perrenial favorite of mine ever since. I was thrilled to know it was available on CD.



PS: The ladies love the Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow cover"