[Milkman]

Supertramp played a pivotal role in my adolescence. I saw them twice in New Brunswick (Crisis, What Crisis, Even in the Quietest Moments) and once at the CNE (Breakfast in America).

Their concert sound was next level compared to most of their contemporaries.

They, along with their sound man, Russell Pope, were among the earliest users of the Midas / Martin combination.

Honestly, other than Yes, and Rush, I had never heard better live sound.

RIP to a great song writer.

 

[Milkman]

My wife and I, along with a bandmate, went to see them in Kitchener in '77. I can't remember when I've ever sweated that much (and that includes a James Brown show). Great show. Enhanced by the use of video on a screen behind them. Though dazed by the severe heat (and lack of airflow), the "train ride" on the screen behind them during the guitar solo on "Goodbye Stranger" was memorable, and complemented the tune nicely. For my money, that solo is one of the best recorded and most strategic uses of a wah. Just a thoughtful band. Polished. Nothing ragged about them. A VERY signature pulsing Wurlitzer piano sound: ee-ee-ee-ee-ee-ee.

Rick Davies: Supertramp singer and co-writer dies at 81

He was behind some of the band's best-known hits including Bloody Well Right and Goodbye Stranger.

www.bbc.com

The train video was used for the song "Rudy" the three times I saw them, but yes, their use of video screens was also ground breaking at the time.

They really were a touch of class.