***
Show #04
The Mint - Los Angeles, CA
August 19, 2006

A friend, a drummer, a brother!

We are not sure exactly why it is so, but sometimes it is... rock bands and serious tragedy are never far removed. On the morning of June 14, 2006, Frank Galuppo (previous lead guitarist) phoned Gary to pass along the terrible news. Their long time buddy and drummer Richard Wright (White Sister, Tattoo Rodeo) had died in his sleep sometime during the previous night. Family and friends were completely devastated and in disbelief over his sudden passing. Everyone knew he had been struggling with his illness but no one expected that Rich wouldn't eventually recover and carry on with his life. Denial was rampant. How could this happen to such a great guy?

Gary Brandon and Richard Wright - Sound Arena Rehearsal Studios
Van Nuys, CA March 2005

Gary and Rich had a long history of friendship. They met shortly after graduating high school and played for about 4 years together on the Hollywood club circuit and beyond. During that time they became very close. The two then parted ways for quite a few years but kept in touch until finally reuniting musically in March 2005. Rich had joined Fast Machine at that time to save Gary, and bass player Chris Cilibrasi, from a nightmarish search for a new drummer. It was Rich's nature to always help a friend in need.

When Rich backed out of the group in February 2006 to tend to his illness, Gary had promised that their fellowship would not die and his permanent spot behind the kit would be reserved until he chose to return. Only this outcome could render that promise untenable. Richard Alan Wright was laid to rest on June 23, 2006 at Forest Lawn - Hollywood Hills.

"He was not only a great friend, and a fantastic drummer but he was
like my brother... and I will always consider him just that" - Gary

Richard in 2005 playing at the Hard Rock Cafe with Fast Machine

Gary and roadie Gregg Baggett setting up wearing memorial arm bands bearing Richard's initials.

The Mint is small, dark and moody but has a great vibe, being an old blues club. An intimate room, with tables very close to the tiny stage, it felt like the perfect place to make a little more band history. With plenty of happy people in the club, the group received their most enthusiastic response to date. The night provided a positive ending to a very difficult and emotional year.

Gary and Chris concentrating on the task at hand.
The Mint - August 19, 2006

Show #04 Detail
Band Lineup
***
Gary Brandon - Acoustic Guitar, Lead Vocals
Chris Cilibrasi - Bass Guitar

HIRED MUSICIANS
Nikki Olivia - Backing Vocals
Nick Hollister - Drums
Ali Nikou - Lead Guitar
Pete Freeman - Rhythm Guitar

Show Date: Saturday - August 19, 2006
Set Length: 7 songs (40 minutes)
Set List: Still She Believes, Temporary Sunshine*, Lonely Life, My Suspicion*, Sarahnade, Rose Coloured Glasses, Regular Guy
Stage Time: 9:30 PM
Capture: [x] Still Photography [ ] Live Recording [ ] Video
Promoter: Cam of Jam Productions (Jaclyn Strong)
Venue Name/Location: The Mint, Los Angeles, CA USA
Venue Capacity: 150 (18 and over)
Venue Purpose: Live Music, Bar

* This is the only time "My Suspicion" and "Temporary Sunshine" were played live. They were never recorded. "My Suspicion" was later cannibalized to write "So Alive" which was first played live in 2008 and demoed that same year.

---