To comment about one performer in particular, I was mesmerized by the pure emotion in Drew Harrison's acoustic Lennon set on the Fountain Stage on Friday. Drew, I bought one of your "People still want peace" t-shirts and got your "Spirit of Lennon" CD with it. I have been playing it non-stop every morning and evening on my way to and from work. Thanks for sharing your heart with your audience!

I just dont understand why the people who have no complaints, have to BASH the ones with a couple ( I think it was said, B.S. suggestions). Or even call them out to begin with! I will never make another comment on this "guest book". I thought that this was a place where I could write about my experience at AROTR 2010.. guess only if I dont have any complaints..
I only thought(complained) that the "lawn" reserved seating wasnt right, because its a lawn! What happens when everyone buys reserved seats on the lawn?? Assigned seats?? Where will the lawn go??
As for the person who called out the people from Ky, I am just floored you even put that sentence in the same paragraph with peace, and love!!!
Mr Jacobs,
I know you stated earlier in the "guest book" that you have been doing this for sometime now. Im sure you understand then that if there is noone to buy the tickets, then there is no show! So it would be safe to assume your putting this shindig on for the fans.. If this isnt the right place to speak our mind about a show you throw for us, then do you have a private suggestion box somewhere??
I apologize if any of this came off rude, I promise it wasnt meant to. I guess I feel I am being attacked by those who had no complaints at all!
And lastly, other than the seating on the lawn only, it was THE best AROTR yet!! Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to us fans!!

We post everything...many people brought together apparently can judge their experience differently...we do what we do for many reasons..but If we had allowed the lawn to be strictly general admission, I am sure there would have been terrible injuries when the storm hit..everyone wedged together at 8:45 at the front of the stage would have been impossible to control. For that reason alone aside from all others, we will never allow thousands of people to be put into that type of danger..for us that's also peace and love..also, we will never sell a bigger space than the one we sold..the lawn will always be at least 75 % general admission...just not in front where it can be the most dangerous

Wow, I cant believe people are complaining.
I had a fantastic time.
For me, it was the best AROTR ever.
I just dont know where else you could go for 25 or 30 dollars and sit listen to great Beatles music ALL DAY and into the.
Gary and the staff put a great lineup every year.
I originally had no plans of even trying to go to the DC AROTR, but, if the Castillo Kids are going to be there, well then I want to be there to.
If you did not see the Castillo kids perform, then you missed out on a very charming band.
Great family.
SO, how about it Gary, do the Kids get to do it again? I know they want to go.

If anyone is interested,Paul McCartney is scheduled in concert,July 26th @ The Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.Tickets go on sale the 7th.The flood waters have receded,so come on down.AROTR ROCKS!See ya next year!!!!!! Cheers!

Highlights for me...finally getting to see the magnificent Terry Sylvester with The Cryers Thursday night...got cold chills when he sang The Air That I Breathe. Followed by one of my 2 new discoveries The RePeatles. They absolutely rock with the attitude of The Who & The Kinks. Hal Bruce and Hard Dazed Knights Medley. Instant Karma show on Friday and their final emotional show on Sunday. I stumbled (too much Magic Hat)upon The Newbees...I was instantly hooked, but especially when I was trusted with the red tamborine. I tried to play like Ringo...less is more. All of us maniacs under a tent singing Beatle songs during the Sunday night Cloudburst. All You Need Is Love at the fountain on Saturday afternoon and the White Album Sunday night. Wish I could make it to D.C. I may see what I can do about that. I alwasy know I have a great time because I am so sad when I get back home. The End.

loved it all. best out of 3 straight yr.s
newbees best new band. norwegian beatles are such nice guys. jammed on thursday night with conrad. didnt know he was part of the show. he complimented my voice and range.
desmond and molly ..alan great art work. was greta to share the stage. traveling beatleburys ..always humble always friendly.
joe from the criers cant wait to jam with you next year.
meet the beatles...funny,talented,and very good

Thank you! Gary: First of all, thank you for giving us the chance to play at such a wonderful event like Abbey Road On The River, alongside all these talented musicians. Thank you, Erin and the rest of the staff and crew for doing an amazing job!
This was an unforgettable week filled with wonderful feelings of togetherness - moments we will cherish for the rest of our lives. We made new friends and we are so happy that you enjoyed our performances - though we´re not a pure Beatles tribute act. So many of you came by and we were just blown away by the response.
The BEAT!radicals want to greet The Repeatles, The Norwegian Beatles, Det Betales, BritBeat & James, Andy Forgie, Hal Bruce, Jimmi Pou, Cindi, Debbi, Melanie, Maggie, Kathie, Sam, Lisa, Judi, Barb and her sweet daughters, Olivia and - last but not least - our nice taxidriver Robert who came to see us with his daughter Abbey (yes, named after the Beatles´work )
...I hope, I haven´t forgotten anybody...we want to send along LOTS OF LOVE to all!!!
Congratulations to the other performers for a great job!!!
Please feel free to friend us on MySpace and Facebook. We would love to hear from you.
We love you all and hope to see you along the way…

Peter and THE BEAT!radicals

First time at AROTR....terrific!!! I absolutely loved AXIS and Tattoo Babylon...they should get higher billing!!! They are not Beatles tribute bands but Hendrix and the Stones were Beatles contemoraries and their music ABSOLUTELY fits with your event!!! Hope to see them again next year!!!

OK--we envsion this and it will come: A reunion of Muhammad Ali and Pual and Ringo at the Muhammad Ali Center. Build the idea and THEY WILL COME.

Thank you Gary and crew for another FABulous AROTR. It is the highlight of the year. BritBeat was absolutely wonderful. Also really liked Revolver and The Elliotts! One band we missed was a band from Japan who was so great last year. Wish they could return next year. Again, thank you Gary for a wonderful time!!!

This was our first year attending Abbey Road on the River, and it was a fabulous experience! We especially enjoyed Meet the Beatles! They were so talented and were kind enough to pose with my daughter and I for pictures. It really made our day. We hope this event continues on Louisville for many years. Thank you so much!!!

We had an awesome time at Abbey Rd. this yr. but I do think it is wrong to fence off the mosh pits. I brot one 23 yr. old and six 21 and under and it was a shame that we couldn't go in the mosh pits. Its showing favortism to people with money. Happens all the time, but didn't think Abbey Rd. would do it.

Somebody fess up. Who tripped the fire alarm at the Galt? How many slept right through it?

As someone who has helped plan a community event for the past two years, I know that bringing everything together isn't any easy process. I also know that things don't always go as planned, and there are always new challenges and new thoughts and ideas on how to make an event better. Overall, this festival is great and continues to be great. The energy and excitement were high, and the bands kept to the schedule (except due to the storms), making it easy to go from one stage to another easily.

We all know that you can't make everybody happy. I have enjoyed every year of AROTR (Louisville), and this one was no different. Gary, thanks for trying to make changes for the better. I know that you work hard on this event and it shows every year! Me, I don't drink beer anyway so who cares. I go to see the music of my favorite band performed every year by some of my favorite returning bands, and new ones that I've never heard before. I took my portable chair along, had a general admission ticket, but I usually spend most of my time walking between the stages to get a little taste of all of the bands, and the atmosphere, anyway so no biggie there for me personally.
Why nit-pick when I get the coolest weekend to mark my year by? I'm proud that AROTR is here in Louisville! I hope that it continues right here in my home town. I'm already looking forward to next year and hoping for the return of Instant Karma, BritBeat,... perhaps Lucy In The Sky.... and maybe, maybe... The Greek Beats?? I miss them!
Thanks to Gary and all who put this show together! I hope to see you next year!

Thank you Thank you Thank you! I love AROTR. My fav bands. Meet The Beetles, The Repeatles, Instant Karma just to name a few. I can't wait until next year. I agree, it's the best concert bargain by far. The only thing I think that you might think about changing is getting name brand beer. Beer made from beets? But you know what, that was even okay after the first one. All I know is I throughly enjoyed myself. Kudos to you Mr Jacobs and your wonderful staff!

I really enjoyed AROTR this year. I just wish I heard more Beatles songs and less other stuff. I really enjoyed meeting the artist. Hopefully next year I will get to see the parade.

And in the end...Louisville went by too quickly. Sitting at home now enjoying a glass of zinfandel, reflecting...

Firstly, thanks to Gary for producing a great and well-organized event, as well as inviting me back to perform. The food was good and the scheduling flowed. Heartfelt thanks to the staff, the stage and sound engineers, and in particular Katie in the Archibald! Katie, you are incredible - Red Bull and all!

Thanks to everyone who attended my performances. If you haven't guessed I love the visceral Lennon solo as much as his Beatles work. To the woman who came up to me after my Thursday Rooftop performance: "You're 100% correct"! Thank you for joining me on Daisy stage, Jimmy P. You're George tribute was excellent.

I was able to catch a lot of shows this time actually, as well as do some judging in the singing contest. Good fun. First time catching "Eight Days A Week". Just when I thought the energy couldn't go any higher after The Apples, on they come to turn it up a notch further. I wonder if I might eventually get bored with this music we all enjoy? The obvious answer: Never. SSG continues to bleed rock n' roll Beatles. Honest and pure delivery and I love that. Appreciate you inviting me to sing with you guys. "The Night in the Life" CD is brilliant, btw.

All You Need Is Love tore it up too. Great show! What is it about the Fountain Stage anyway? Itchocoo Park show in Archibald was beautiful. Still don't know that i'll join Facebook, John. And what about The Newbies...? They we're incredible. Did they actually do "Back Seat of My Car"????

Those are but a few that pop in me head this evening, out of the many. Viva los Beatles! Hope to hear more in DC.

Spent a lot of time in the Archibald (gratefully as the humidity was wilting this Californian nee New Yorker). Nice to spend some quality time chatting with Russ, Bruce, Joe and Margaret, and our neighbors Mario and Kathy.

Strength to you, Flo as you navigate these times.

Special shout out from the heart to Mary and Debbi. You know why.

Lest I forget, salute to you Bucky Buckminster! You killed them with "Michelle". Thanks for joining me on stage! A ladykiller in the making...

And, finally, thank you Jen, for all your efforts and support of me, in this, The Sun Kings, and my solo work.

We'll see you in DC.

Peace and love-
Drew

July 28 on PBS- Paul McCartney "In Performance at the White House"

Is there a magic bus to wash-SHINDIG-ton? I want on it. Gary?

Hey Stacey from Lousiville, Mom of Whiplash-er!

Whiplash was awesome! We named them our "best surprise find" of the whole weekend. We expected great things (and got them!) from many other bands, but we stumbled into the Whiplash show by serendipity, and were blown away.

Gary, I won't join the complainer brigade about the seating, but I will complain next year if you don't bring these young guys back.

Dear Gary & Abbey Road on the River Friends, As many of you already know because you are "on my elist," as that "end of AROTR Blues" began at the end of Abbey Road on the River last May, 2009, I asked to gather your email addresses to keep us all connected and to give us info on where the Bands play when we are not All Together Now. I send a weekly eletter of Beatles, Bands, & Fans info to that elist all over the world, BECAUSE Gary Jacob has "introduced" us to that world view right here in Louisville on the River. I treasure those friendships which grew from AROTRs and now include in my "intimate circle" of local friends those who I never would have met were it not for AROTR. It is no secret to anyone that those of us who attend AROTR love this festival more than most things we ever do. I hear that all the time from you who so kindly write me back.

So, it really is heart-wrenching to read the comments of a very few which are so outrageously unkind and inaccurate in the criticisms (and I do not agree that it is just Ky folks who are the critics). You may have read my very favorable interview in the Courier-Journal about AROTR. The quote from me that they did not print was something like "Gary Jacob is a magician who every year recreates for us that perfect world that our Beatle Boys envisioned for us of peace, love and rock & roll." I meant every word. I do so adore the music and the magnificent and friendly musicians who re-create it for us. But, for me, the community of loving, lovely people, in a universe which exists for less than a week for us all to Come Together is the most magical part of it all. So, there is crying when it comes to an end because we won't see our friends from all Across the Universe until Gary does it for us again, next time, better every year. Here's a link to my facebook entry about this year's end, the worst for me personally, yet:
Olivia FB

I loved the new set-ups. I loved that Steve remembered a Beatle item I coveted, found it for me, and held it all weekend so I would not have to carry it. I adored that the VIP sections which ALWAYS have existed were well enforced this year so those of us who expect to pay to be able to see one another and play together easily could do just that. (Today's pre-sale for Nashville for Macca was $2,000 for front row and $1,500 for the next few rows back. Cheap seats were a couple of hundred dollars. So, who in the world thinks it is "wrong" for Gary to give us an opportunity to pay for "best tickets!" Quit your bellyaching and expect what you pay to have. If you want to be in the best spots, then do what the rest of us who are there do–prioritize so you can pay for them. And, I am going to Nashville with two AROTR chicks I never otherwise would have known.) It was wonderful that the smoking was away from the stages. I want to have Gary offer us the opportunity to pay for one master schedule with all the gigs visible at once, sort of like the first year in Louisville which showed the bands and the complete schedule; but, I printed out my own so I was not having too much trouble. However, that was the one complaint that I heard repeatedly that I felt was somewhat merited.

So, all this simply to say what to me is so obvious: ABBEY ROAD ON THE RIVER LOUISVILLE 2010 WAS THE BEST EVER, FROM THE LONGER ROOFTOP CONCERT AT THE HYATT TO THE WICKED WONDERFUL CLOSING SET BY THE REPEATLES WITH ALL THEIR ADDED FRIENDS WHO WOWED US IN THE FINALE. Hated the heat and the monsoons. Everything else was PERFECT, to me. Maybe I'll post some additional thoughts about the perfect experiences of this year in more detail later.

And, if you wish me to include you in the distribution list of the weekly eletter so you can find Gary's/Our Bands until we are back at AROTR, just send me a request to oamfuchs@aye.net with your name, address, mobile phone & email address. And, I'd love you to be my friend on Facebook/Twitter/MySpace. See you in D.C. at the inaugural AROTR there, I hope and pray.
Love, Love Me, Please Do, Olivia Anne
=========================
Olivia Anne Morris Fuchs, oamfuchs@aye.net , 3803 Ashridge Drive, Louisville, Kentucky 40241-1652; 502-423-7800=Residence; 552-6523=Mobile; http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=9432176182#/profile.php?id=546292291&ref=profile
http://twitter.com/OliviaAnne
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=477635894

My son's band, Whiplash, had the honor of playing this weekend and what a wonderful time it was! On behalf of our our family, we thank you for the opportunity! We had a fabulous time and appreciate how well we were taken care of...it was like full rock star treatment!

I tried this once before, and it must not have gone through, so here we go again...

Thanks to everyone involved with organizing AROTR. This is our 6th year playing, and love every minute of it.

Kudos to the caterer for the bands..they did a great job, and the food was quite yummy. I hope you use them again.

Its always nice to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. Union Jack, Beatleburys, Blue Jay Way, Rigbys, Vinyl Kings, Gary Quinn..and many others...You guys rock...not to mention just being fine human beings;)

We look forward to being able to play our favorite music, by our favorite band...the Beatles, and no finer opportunity than AROTR comes along.

Thank to everyone that came to see our shows...especially the ones that stayed under cover at the pool with us during the rain storm on sunday for the impromptu acoustic singalong...one of the highlights for me.

Finally, thanks to my band members in the Johnny Doughnut Experience for doing what they do so well..and making it look effortless.

I just wanted to say thank you so much for this amazing event. This is my second year coming to AROTR, and I will definitely be back next year. I am a huge Beatles fan, but unfortunately I wasn't alive yet when they all were together. This event is the closest thing to seeing them live. Every single singer/band was awesome, and I love the souvenirs that I bought there. Thanks again

Gary, let me start this off by saying this isn't my first rodeo, I have been to 7 AROTR's and only missed the first 2 because i was unaware they existed. So, as a famous band once said I know you, you know me.
I don't beleive i have every complained about anything in the entire 7 years and i have talked to you many, many times. Yes, i did smuggle a beer in and that was wrong, you have every right to make a buck and it won't happen again. I think i was really caught up in the negativity project
that's been going on and, yes i am now somewhat de-programmed.
Now here are your propers and they are numerous.
The bands and the music was fantastic.
The food was excellent and at a good price.
Although, the weather played havoc with you on several occasions, you managed to move everything
inside and start the shows very quickly.
You can't get a better value concert dollar for dollar.
I have become friends with a lot of band members
and concert attenders in my 7 years and that is a
big treasure to me.
You have a good staff, they are eager to solve customer problems and you're right about feeling safe there and confident that there won't be any riots or people hurt for any reason.
I think some of that has to do with the good nature of Beatle loving fans, myself and you included.
I even helped some of the bands and acts with equipment, etc. before and after their gigs.
Overall, I love everything about AROTR as i have been a Beatle fan for over 50 years.
I don't agree with the barriers, but that's up to you.
Just wanted you to see the positive side of me (yes, there acutally is one)
Hope we are still friends, we are on my end, but that's up to you too.
I'll be at AROTR in Lou. next year and in Wash. this year if i win the lottery before then.
I don't agree with another comment that all
negative comments and suggestions are bullshit, everyone has a right to be heard, but there are 2 sides to every coin.
I'm not a suckass and have nothing to gain from my comments today except to give you your props
If you have a comment on all this ranting, please print it.
John from Smithfield

Once again(with gusto).THANK YOU GARY!!! You've made a helluva lot of people happy.Keep bringing all those great musicians to Louisville and everthing else will just fall in place.You and all your peop0le work so hard!How do you do it? Cheers!

We had a blast at this, our 6th AROTR! We always do and so do our daughters. We can't wait for next year!!

This was our first AROTR,drove 15 hrs to get there from Conn.and worth every mile. Making plans for DC and next year. A lot of top notch bands put on quite a show. Gary,I hope the Beat radicals will be coming back, Did you catch their show???? Nothing short of awesome

Another great year! We haven't missed one single AROTR and hopefully never will! We LOVED the JUKEBOX, THE BEAT!RADICALS, MARIO & JAMES DASILVA, HAL BRUCE, AND BRITBEAT! We also LOVED the Gretsch talk. . .very cool! Even though I have seen many changes throughout the years at AROTR, I find it important to continue to take risks because it can ultimately also improve the event as well.

Thank youuu! Here's to AROTR 2011! It can't come soon enough!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This was my 2end year to go to Abbey Road I had a wonderfull time. I hopefully get to go next year I just wish I hadn't been so shy and nervous to approach certain bands so that is a definate goal. My favoriate bands this year were Revolver from Dundee, Scotland I hope they are going to be there next year. Also Brit Beat & The Juxbox were very good. This year I attend with my mom , uncle shawn , aunt diane and uncle bill. We missed the last day of the festival because that was the day that we flew out. I had a wonderfull time.

Why is Dear Prudence stuck in my head?

I'm already having withdrawels - not from alcohol but from such another fun weekend in Loolville. All you true Beatle fans - take note of the cities/states the negativity is coming from...no further comments needed on that note. I feel bad for them to have not enjoyed such an outstanding event - the biggest (and best) Beatle weekend in the US. Think of all the money that it brought to YOUR community...there are many other cities that would really appreciate the tourism in these difficult times for most "working class" people...which most were this weekend. AROTR - you r welcome in my town...we would appreciate the revenue and the best music and talented musicians and best Beatle fans there are! Hi Mario, Kathy, James, Ben, Ramona, Hal, Jay (you rock!), submorons ( I had 2 much fun in the parade), Henry, Alice, Sir Mark, Lori from CA, and on and on and on - and we really missed you "long-haired lady" Chris from Toledo - but now living in New York and married to someone who plays in a Beatle band - The Fab Faux! Congratulations on your wedding and hope to see you next year. Hope you get to DC - we can't.

Gary, I miss the show being in Cleveland, but I see why its there. Its better. The best show you've done. Your hard work has paid off.

Ed

I justed to say that this year is mine and my husbands first year and we loved it.We don't think you should change a thing.We are thinking about coming back next year and get a room so we can see more.The bands that we did see and liked were Luv Me Deux,8 days a week and also Blue Jay Way.We loved them.Hope to see you next year and keep up the good work your doing!!!!!!!

A few people mention some personal neg's they had about an event - a non-human entity - not a person. I think most of those even stated their love and enjoyment for the people they all met. Then many of you begin verbally attacking these people personally. You've even called them names. Your own people. What's happened to you? Get down there and kiss that corporate butt if that's who you're but, John Lennon would be ashamed of you. I don't care if it means I'll never play in front of an audience again; I wouldn't attack my own for stating their personal opinion about an event. You could have easily just stated your positive feelings about the event without ever mentioning your brothers and sisters lesser than positive statements. I'll go out on a limb and suggest that if John Lennon read this thing he would ask that you all just drop it. That means you too Jacobs. You guys are breaking my heart.

THANK YOU!!! Thanks to all who gave our family a magical week of music, fun, sun, dancing, and more. Too much to say in

one post, so I'll get back to detailed thanks later. For now, a big thanks to . . .

1. Gary and staff -- without you, your work, and your passion, we wouldn't have any of this. We can't ever thank you enough,

but we'll try.

2. The bands -- too many great ones to see them all, but we tried our best. I hesitate to name any and miss some favorites,

so I'll try later. Our faves know who they are.

3. The friendly fans -- All of you, thank you from our whole family for your incredible kindness to our kids. As we have grown

from taking one toddler to leading a mini-parade of our 4 girls, we've become a bit more noticeable, and we've worried a bit

about keeping the crew under control. We are so grateful that the AROTR crowd is made up of friendly souls who smile at the

kids, ask them their favorite Beatle songs, and welcome them in every way. Thanks to everyone who held a door for the

stroller, made room in the elevator, and let the toddler run around them in the grass. (And our apologies to anyone who

tripped over a kid or a sippy cup.)

And a special thanks to band members who take pictures with the kids, even when it involves a comprehensive discussion of

dolls.

Thank you all!

The Carneys
(Stephen, Amy, Julia, Jane, Caroline, and Alice)

After playing four days at the fest here are my final thoughts.

It is amazing that a festival dedicated to the music of a single band can be so amazing. Would anybody ever want to go to a five day Green Day tribute fest? I think not (even though I do like Green Day.)

The lead singer of All you Need is Love turned out to be not only to be arguably the best front man at the fest but also one of the nicest people I have ever met.

At 90% of gigs there is a feeling of competition between bands. This was in no way the case at this fest and it was obvious if anyone went to the all night jam sessions.

Thanks a bunch to the sound guys. I walked past the stages several times over the course of four days and always saw the same sound guys making sure everything was going well. (They job was obviously considerably harder than mine, which was playing in a band)

And to Gary and everyone else who held the fest: the amount of organization it must take to do this is something that I don't even like to this about. But it came through apparently flawlessly. Thanks for a great five days.

Incredible amount of beefs--Mostly just unadulterated bullshit
This show is the greatest music value on the planet. Has been for years and will always be!!!

Divide the cost of your ticket by the 12-14 hours of music every day and tell me where you can get a better music value anywhere??

You can’t find one!!!

Yes If you were smart enough to have spent the few extra dollars to get the best ticket you were able to get up close!

But please consider this --- Up close tickets to just about any other event might cost you $200 or more

I paid over $250 for a floor seat in the 6th row on the side --- not even in the center for the Sir Paul concert at my beloved Fenway Park.

Even with a Nikon camera with a 15 optical zoom I was not very near the stage.

At most 2 hour concerts most people spend $75-$100 to sit way up on the side of the venue. No where near the stage.

Some spend $30-$50 dollars to sit a half a mile from the stage!

That’s right $30 to $50 to sit at one end of a football stadium over 120 yards away plus 30 rows up ---The musicians are in the other end zone

You actually need a telescope to see the musicians binoculars won’t do it.

Yes, you can hear the music but you won’t see a thing!

Gary, As to all the bull shit complaints - I would have to somewhat agree with one minor complaint.

For us over 50’s who have to wear reading glasses to read a book or the newspaper, the event program could use some improvement

But if you went into the AROTR site you could have printed up a complete program with complete descriptions and photographs of each and every entertainer in any size your computer’s printer would allow so in reality the beef about the program readability is only relevant for first timers and only on the first day.

And quite frankly all they had to do was find that silly---funny looking guy who was constantly blowing bubble gum bubbles and he would have given you one of the 50 computer generated copies of that days events that he carried around in his knapsack

Please note: most events won’t let you enter with a knapsack or chairs or a camera with a large zoom lens or a bottle of water!

In my knapsack under the copies of the programs were also an emergency package of all different sized zip locks. [it came in really handy when the cloud burst hit. I was able to give the zip locks to many of the camera holders including one beautiful lady to keep her hand bag dry.

Under that zip lock package was a yellow hooded rain parka that goes with me anytime I attend an outdoor event and at the very bottom of knapsack was one zip lock filled with nuts and raisins.

Gary, please don’t let the few unhappy “guests” that you had at your fabulous musical event bother you at all!

you might want to actual say to them

“show me a better musical value for the money”

and if you can

“I will give you back the difference in the value” “ towards the admission fee to next arotr”

I don’t think anyone will be able to come with anything, but if they do—the most it could cost you is a few bucks --- And from a marketing standpoint they will be using the few bucks to buy tickets for next arotr.

Malcolm and Nicki will see you all in DC in just 91 days!

Beatles are forever!!!

My favorite band is the Tearaways, love, love love THIS BAND !! - thank you for having them. I would return next year just to see them... in spite of anything else I did not care for or agree with. I went for my friends and the music and that it all that counts. Other favorites totally enjoyed: All you need is Love, Itchycoo Park, the Repeatles and
The Beat Radicals

You can't please everyone and be all things to all people - yes there were things I was annoyed with, but I loved the music and my friends !

A great five days! After attending Liverpool Beatle Week every year I finally made it to AROTR and was pleasantly surprised that the quality of the bands was comparable, and for me that's a compliment. A good mix of straight Beatles, Beatle interpretations, and selections from other 60s bands and beyond. I would suggest that a more complete program would help give a clue as to what to expect from each band so that folks that never want to hear anything but Beatles can seek out those bands and those of us who prefer some variety can know who to look for as well.
For me top bands were Tearaways, Repeatles, Beatradicals, Elliots and Whiplash. Those kids can rock.

Oh, and to the person who said they never heard anyone do "I Want To Hold Your Hand" the entire weekend, we did it in two of our shows. Check us out next year!

Pattie here...

Both Sharon and I would like to say that ABBEY ROAD ON THE RIVER ROCKS!!!!! This is our second year, hopefully not our last and was even more enjoyable than last year. I didn't think that was possible. Everyone in the organisation of this event is top-notch! Gary, Erine, Denver and the rest, I honestly don't know how you do it. I think the reason I love this festival so much is that it's truly about the MUSIC. Other Beatles festivals (not mentioning names) are basically giant "Beatle malls" with authors, and only one band to provide entertainment and that band never changes. The Beatles were about love, peace and MUSIC and you guys provide that atmosphere. Keep up the good work!

To all the other musicians, techs and vendors that we met over the weekend, you are all amazing. Russ Lease, it's always a pleasure to see you and I'll be in contact very soon. I was totally blown away by The Newbees, BritBeat, Drew Harrison (always a fave of mine), Mario, Desmond & Molly, Gary Quinn, AYNIL, Hal (I thought you were doing the medley more than once and missed it. Shame on me for not reading properly!), Stan and Mandie and so many more! Special love and good karma to Peter Conrad and the Traveling Beatlebury's. Your attitude of love is what it's all about. I still get a little choked up when I think of how you dedicated your beautiful tribute song for George to us. Namaste...

To the many people who came to hear us play, Mike and Ryan, Dale (who flew in from FL just for us!), Sue, and Olivia Anne and all the rest...you are the ones that will keep us coming back as long as they'll let us. To our new friends Katie, Patricia, Maggie...we're glad we passed the audition!

We truly enjoyed "Let Him Be" and are so sorry we missed seeing "The Mayor Of Strawberry Fields". I was glad there were DVD's available!

To the Galt House...wow, we were even more impressed than last year. Getting suite "900" was such a nice surprise and the rooms are HUGE. I wanted to strap the bed to the roof of our car because it's more comfortable than the one I have at home LOL. Also, thank you for not charging us for an extra day when we checked in at 5am...truly a class act!

The only problem we had (not worried about the misprint in the program...these things happen) was that several people who came to see the two shows we did at the Pool Stage said that they couldn't hear us very well because we were being drowned out by the bands at the River Stage and the Fountain Stage. We had great monitors (and great techs), so I'm sure that they did the best they could under the circumstances. Next year, I'll tell them to turn it up to "11"!

I'm sure I'll think of more to say later, but in the meantime...love, peace and (two-part) harmony to all of you. All you need is love!

Love, Luv Me Deux
8^)

First of all want to thank Gary, the bands, the crew, security all involved for putting on a great weekend. This is our 4th year in a row, and we hope to make again next year.
We look at this as our once a year vacation, where you come back and see familiar faces and meet new friends. Always have had a good time.
The bands this year I feel were very good, the energy they put into it is amazing. One of the under rated bands I feel is Nervous Melvin. Dennis puts 120% into his playing. We did miss seeing the Beat Trips this year as they are one of our favorites. The Beat Radicals were amazing and as always, we loved the Repeatles. Loved hearing the Kinks songs.
I guess for those who say they didn't hear Beatles music, there are 3 main stages with different bands rotating through all of them, so you will hear Beatles music. If you don't show up till Monday, maybe not so much. This is an all weekend event, and personally we liked hearing other music from the era. The Pranksters on Monday were fantastic, wish they had another time slot.
As far as the seating I guess I can understand both views, we had best seating and enjoyed walking in with no problems for seating. If it is changed I would like to see seating arrangement something like on the lawn - seating up close on the sides, then open in middle for people wanting to stand and dance.
As far as the food at an event like this - typical vendor food. One of the best bargains we found was food at the pool side grill, fresh cooked, $5-6 hambuger and brats, plenty of chips, and even a large pickle. Well worth it.
This is an all weekend event and you make what you want out of it. Either the whole weekend or a day. Plenty of things to do or watch all weekend. The films and the talks inside were fun and a nice break from the heat.

OOPS! I hit send too soon.. also must mention the Elliotts and of course Peter McNamee & the film Let Him Be!!

Gary, you could give everyone $10,000 and some people are still going to complain, but the majority of us love you.

Gary I thank you, your staff, the bands, the sponsors, the Galt, and the city of Louisville for all the blood,sweat and tears that gives us the best weekend that is AROTR!!
Some of the highlights for me, too many to post them all here. Drew Harrison...always. The Rooftop show-THE perfect start. Brit Beat's shows progression of Beatles era's nailed it down to the smallest detail!! The acoustic sets - Hard Dazed Knights with Mario & the one with Steve & Matt of SSG. Speaking of SSG...OMG!! Hal Bruce's "deadly medley"- 214 Beatles songs nonstop! The "album shows" AYNIL's White Album and Instant Karma's Imagine, and Whiplash - the next generation's supergroup!!
Thank you to my extended Beatle family and friends for gifts of love, music and friendship.
I love you all!! WACKO ROCKS!

BTW It took this 9yr AROTR vet so song to post cause what I want to say to those unhappy haters is unfit to print.

Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make the ninth AROTR one of the best! Gary and staff, the bands, Galt House, volunteer Boy Scouts, etc., the list goes on and on. We cannot imagine the work that it takes to organize this kind of event and then follow through.

This was our sixth trek and we heard bands for the first time that we hadn't heard before and they were all great. Especially enjoyed Hal Bruce's medley, the talent and the kindness of this gentleman. Loved the film, Let Him Be, and the original music. Jimmy Pou is always a wonderful performer and very gracious off the stage.

Crowds were large and we hope people come back next year for the 10-year anniversary of AROTR - I know that we will!

I was not a best ticket holder, and I didn't care one bit about not getting close to the lawn or fountain stage, but I would like to thank you for allowing me into so many indoor shows this year on a GA ticket. That was so nice, especially since I can't take much of the heat. I thought everything was perfect this year. This was my sixth year going and thought I enjoyed every year, this was the year I enjoyed the most!

No fights, no arrests, no drunken behavior, no sun strokes, no pushing, no shoving, no smoke from a guy 6 inches away, no lost kids...ya think smart crowd control might have had sonething to do with that? or you wanna do the Who in Cincinatti..people tend to see the piece of the puzzle that affect them..we need to create, assemble and see the whole puzzle..one fight, one drowning, one riot..and the event is over forever!

so, pick your poison..we are event professionals..have you ever produced an event, if you have, please send resume now

There's nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be... (General admission seats, VIP seats, Daisy Room, Main stage, maybe you're at home because you couldn't attend this year) ...it's easy - All You Need is Love! We loved AROTR wherever we were.

y'know, if it were all GA-a thousand other people would beat you to the front of the stage..or beat you out of it. Life is full of important choices. Organization is key. Bands were all great and sweet as ever- no wonder we ticket holders are scratching and clawing our way to you.

Things we did this year for 2nd best ticket holders.

1. 21 and under free
2. full access to all hotel shows until 11pm
3. added pool stage
4. free entry for singing contest
5. access to all speakers, films
6. right to bring thru the gate water, chairs
7. discount code at hotel
8. all night sing alongs, if they wanted
9. access to reserved sections after 1045 pm (no jay didnt intitate that)
10. a rule at the box office that simply stated, " if the customer has a problem with their ticekts, make it right.
11. a staff of over 200 people who cleaned, secured, fed, and kept safe for 5 days; not a perspn on that site worked an 8 hour day..we all worked 20 hours a day for 8 days. try that sometime..and keep smiling as all our people did.
12. free posters
13. amazing music everywhere, if you were willing to find it...it's not all on the lawn or fountain..where all these generlaizations seem to come from.

Look, we love what we do; we deliver a great product at great value compared to any event on the planet, and compared to 8 previous abbey roads..so, if your eperience was not perfect, we apologize..we really do, but, to say the event sucked or we run a scam and racket is bit over the top, isnt it?

And when people use some out dated rhetoric about fences and signs being against the spirit of the Beatles, they are using an argument that doesnt hold up.

The Beatles wrote and performed beautiful music with wonderful themes and messages, and got paid a billion dollars for their message. I think they would approve very much of what we do!

When the storm hit, with at best 2-3 minute warning, as we were watching radar, all communication was lost for approximately thirty minutes. Severe lightning was everywhere. Within minutes of it ending, we, as team, still unsure of the damages received to equipment, and more importantly people, were able to reassemble the lineup, the shedule, and within a very short time open 4 stages, with a full program for all.

Those so quick to criticize have no idea what it takes to do what we do. We risk everything to deliver a show, including in moments of storms, our lives...so, get rid of the petty complaints cause they are bringing us down, and right now, we are tired, we are full of pride for what we did, and this rattling of your jewelry as it were is way way off base. there's a problem when observers of other peoples work can be so sure they are right, and make such baseless accusations. Give us a minute to breathe, sleep on your problem for a week, then send us your lucid suggestions..right now it"s a feeding frenzy. How can so much love get so twisted.

If anyone out there has ever experienced the personal experience of trying to do your work, while thousands of people want to stop you to tell you they love you, hate you, love the beer, hate the beer, love the reserved, hate the reserved, need to know right now if you are coming back, have a band in Zimwambe they want you to book, wanna know why so and so are not there, interupt other conversations because theirs, at that moment is the one that matters, yell at our box office people because a line of 200 does not go thru in 5 minutes..and on and on..you would understand why we are going to carefully evalaute what comes next.

To the 99% of you who get it, and resepect us as friends and the event as something special, we love working for you..and you know that. To the 1% who sees it differently...consider this. Do you go to work intending to screw people? Does your company or job make up shit just to piss people off? Of course not, we are you and you are us and we all just try to make it work..for the greater good.

I did not like the VIP sections; it separated the people and I for one liked the past festivals when it felt like we were all as one. It is unlikely that I return next year if they decide to continue with dividing the people! The music on the great lawn was not very good on Saturday. I did enjoy all the other bands at the festival though. I was very happy to discover the pool side bar served domestic beer because I was not a fan of the beer served at the festival. Over all I had a good time with my friends but left with a bad taste in my mouth.

What a year! This has to rank among the top AROTRs! My experience was a wonderful one. My parents joined us in Louisville for the first time this year, and my mom can not get it out of her head! They had a blast, and brought some friends! I don't even know where to begin...So many wonderful people! First and foremost, thanks to Gary Jacobs, the fans, troop 77, the production staff, Galt House staff (more courteous than ever)soundcrew and backline, and my pals Peter, Phil, Sam, Bruce, Frankie Rae --I would not be there having the time of my life every year if it weren't for all of you! Saw some amazing new bands (new to me) this year like the Norwegian Beatles, Revolver, and the Newbees. Now to all of the amazing friends and bands: It was such a pleasure to enjoy all of your music and company! Gary Q you rocked as always--we missed you george! Jay,Instant Karma is such a moving experience for me! Alex-my buddy- you are an amazing musician and it is my hope to work with you someday! what tasty grooves you lay down- and my fave- Whatever gets you through the night! Mark was proud of you guys for carrying on to AROTR without him. That is what he would have wanted.
All You Need is Love- definitely the tightest sounding band I have ever seen live. Mark I loved your Theramin. Andy you are quite possibly the finest showman and kindest person I have ever met. My wife adores you. AARON?? from Scotland's Revolver..I hope that is your name. It was great sharing a jam with you on the balcony porch thing. Hal- you are AROTR royalty for a reason. Such a talented musical director. Hope you and your wife made it back to Nova Scotia and got some rest. Stan and Amanda..you guys sounded awesome by the pool. Cryers--you truly are a breath of fresh air. (and I think I see Joe Orlando more than any other person throughout the weekend except maybe Gary!)Jeff- you sounded great even after everyone else went hoarse! Tommy and Belle- you are incredible. SSG- thanks for the jam invite! Maybe next year - Now these guys are close to my heart: Itchycoo Park- I cannot thank you enough for the kind words and awesome stage time spent with you. So proud to be your "North American Keyboard Player" Thanks for the chance to play on the main stage with you guys! Same goes for the amazing Repeatles. What a class act bunch of guys. Desmond and Molly- Submorons- JukeBox- Mario- I can not possibly name everyone.
And all the fans! So many of you I just know by face and smile- but here goes: Carlette, Harold, Kaye, Liz, Nancy, Olivia, CincyRob, Winona, Kim, Grace and Mia, Sir Mark, Pete, Andrea Lynn, Lisa, Ben and Ramona...you are all such special people who I endlessly thank and look forward to seeing again! Everyone I missed- you know who you are! The guy in Abbey Road Live that had the strum stick at the galtjam- how cool! See many of you in DC! This is so scattered -And I am writing a novel. One more thing (I think)--Highlight of the weekend had to be Dear Prudence in the Archibald by AYNIL. It nearly brought tears to my eyes. I love all of you! I look forward to making many more musical memories with you! Peace!
-Kevin Keyboard - Tweeter Beatlebury, Soap Impression, guy with weird mouth keyboard thing (melodica)-Ashba.

Dag! How could I forget my fav? Talkin" "bout my generation. Your new girl bass player is talented and a fashion plate. I loved her mini-skirt made out of ties. Y'all have so much fire--don't break too many hearts along the toppermost of the poppermost. Love you too, Ben--I miss all my new friends already... but I can still hear the songs in my head.

This "guestbook" has turned into a very angry debate! EVERYONE is getting bashed for expressing their thoughts! Haters calling out other haters! This is a festival to celebrate The Beatles. The era of love, peace, rock n roll. Coming together.
We don't have to agree on our likes and dislikes! This is a concert for ALL of the fans! If we can't express our opinions (or ideas to make it better for each individual), to the wonderful people putting this whole thing together, then who is this festival for anyway?
Thanks again for another awesome AROTR!! http://www.abbeyroadontheriver.com/guestbook/images/smile.gif

p.s. integration now, segregation never! ;-)
(ban private seating on lawn!) lol

Hi everyone: On behalf of Scott Ferguson (drums), Floyd King (bass), Mark Beyer (keyboards), Gary Metcalf (guitar), and myself, I'd like to thank you all for allowing The Hard Dazed Knights to bring to you the entire medley of all 214 Beatle songs on Friday night. We had only a couple of days to rehearse everything together as a complete unit...it wasn't perfect, but we gave it a good try, and had a blast presenting it to you all. Thanks Fred Giles for offering to be my guitar tech for set.

My unit of Scott, Floyd and myself also enjoyed bringing you quite a few shows throughtout the week...great crowds, great weather, great everything!!!

Getting to have Mario join us in the Dasiy Room on Saturday night was a complete treat for our "Unprepared" acoustic show.

Really great to see and hear my Swedish brothers, The Repeatles perform again, it was so cool...and thanks boys for letting me get up and close off the fest with you...Pinball rules!!!

Thanks Cryers for letting me harp through "I'm A Loser" with you.

To all of the bands and entertainers, I salute you all...you rose once again for the occasion, and you never let the crowds down.

My Apple Jam on Sunday night was a little bit short and I apologize for not having enough time to get everyone one up...it closed down too early.

Meeting Joe Carducci from Gretsch was quite a memorable experience, I can tell you. He was the nicest guy, and really took time to show us all of his Gretsch gems...wow!!!

Mostly to Gary Jacob, the staff and everyone who came out to the Festival...thank you so much. It couldn't have happened without you all.

See you all in DC in September.

Came in on Wednesday this year and just got home yesterday. Missing my Beatle family already! So many new Beatle bands this year, as well as my ol’ favs too. As far as the pricing and seating goes, well I always buy the BEST ticket. Funds have been really low this year and I almost didn’t get to make it to AROTR. Now everyone seems to be complaining about not being able to get up close to the bands…but they didn’t buy the BEST ticket either. Its been like this, just in the past, people were able to sneak past security better…lol. Not fair for us who did pay more. And how about the “rain-outs”? I went to the Archibald room and couldn’t get close because of the 800 other people in the place. I also thought that the “other” priced tickets didn’t include the indoor events last year (I could be wrong). So even with the general admission, one could go to just about any concert, but just weren’t able to sit wherever they wanted. (What makes this different from any other concert?) So for $25 (plus $5 off if you got the coupon online)….so for $20 one could see music at 8 different stages for 10 hours of music. That sounds like a pretty good deal to me. As far as the people who HAD to have a beer…there was beer inside the hotel bar that could be carried to the inside concerts. And with all the rude, young, drunks that I encountered last year, I was so grateful that no one danced a beer on my back again. Lol. Of course things are different, as they are every year. Meeting new people and bands and having new experiences and all part of this Beatle~ing journey. I thank Gary to all the wonderful friendships I have made over the years at these events. Beatle people are some of the most kind hearted people I’ve known. Everyone seems to want to help each other out, even if you don’t really know that person personally. And did anyone notice that only one poster was stolen in the halls of the Daisy room? (To that guy, KARMA BABY!)

Wow!!!! A really Great time. Not sure about the VIP areas in front of the stage but glad to hear the Tearaways from California. They the true rock band of the festival. Great show at Archibald at 1:30 AM.

As always had a good time at AROTR in Louieville, which by the way is 100% better than Cleveland as far as city goes (much more to do). I wish the reserved seating would change, did not seem as fun, most of the time there was hardly anyone in the areas (by the way I did purchase the best ticket) and it was quite lonley because my family could only afford the general admission. General admission for me next time because the point of the festival is to be around people not apart. People are right about the beer, it SUCKED. Saved alot of money by drinking my own in my room or buying it at the pool. While I enjoy AROTR every year it does get a bit stale, sometimes seems like same thing year after year (predictable).Did enjoy hearing music of other artist. Gary saw this GREAT Beatles tribute band, the best I have every seen/heard, have you heard of them? They are call The Fab Faux out of New York City. You should have them next year. If you close your eyes when they are playing you would think it's the Beatles. Until next year, hope to see some changes for the better.

Had a blast again this year.
ALL YOU NEED IS LOVE still my favorite ! Dig the
Newbees except for the new silver vests.lol
Meet the beetles were Good and Ed Sulivan was pretty funny!!!
Met a new friend _Randy "coolest guy at the festival"
It was fun to do a little harmony on ALL MY LOVIN with "GEORGE MARTIN" at the piano.NICE GUY.
Dont know ya personally Gary Jacobs but, nice work man. Thanks
and last but not least, thanks Steve for your
Friendship and awesome sense of humor.
CANT WAIT TILL NEXT AROTR.

We would like to thank Gary Jacob, the fans, and all the volunteers and staff who work behind the scenes at AROTR. This was the third year that we have played the event and it is always something we look forward to each year. Everyone treats us so well and we love to see music lovers who love the Beatles as much as we do. Thank you for the opportunity to play live at this event. Conner, Foster, Garett and Coré TTWB.

This is a note to thank everyone who made this event another great experience, especially the supporting fans who stopped by and supported us. Again, without you there would be no us, and I love you all.


Thank You Joe Orlando, and the Cryers. It was an honor to share the stage with you. Thank You, Belle, Jeff, and Tommy.

Also, Thank You Gary, for having me for the sixth year running. It was another great event, like an annual family reunion. "It keeps getting better all the time".

All the bands sounded tight and musical: the Rigbys, Steve Sizemore, Peter Comrad, All You Need Is Love, Jimmy Pou, Norwegian Beatles, on and on.

Too bad the Pool show had to stop due to the downpour. Sorry about that for all those who were there to listen.

Hal, needless to say, I had a great time playing those Simon and Garfunkel, CSNY and others. Floyd and Scott made things groove beautifully. I was proud to share the stage with you all.
Drew Harrison, I enjoyed all that hanging out my man. Your lady Jennifer sure is a keeper, thanks for you all's friendship.

Quilt Girls,(you truly add color to the festivals); Amanda and Krystal (the collection of flowers is growing around here. Keep'em coming), Lisa Pasquale, you make me laugh. Wanna see those pictures.


Thank You Kathy and James for the invaluable help through the weekend. Couldn't have done without you.

Thanks to God for keeping all things peaceful and safe that weekend.

humm.. i guess that's it.

Peace and Love to all. See you in D.C.

Mario, Kathy and James DaSilva

Well, another smashingly successful AROTR has come to a close. Gary and team, you bring tremendous joy to Beatlemaniacs everywhere, and I, for one, am grateful. I don't have complaints like some other people. It has been my privilege to buy premium tickets every year, and I will continue to do so. I don't expect to have the world laid at my feet in exchange. It is a bit disappointing, though, to hear people who buy general admission tickets complain because they can't muscle their way in front of loyal patrons who save all year to buy tickets to give themselves ultimate access. Those same complainers might even resent having to pay anything at all. They don't understand how necessary it is for the AROTR organization to bring in the necessary revenue early in the process in order to book talent for the next year. Oh well, you can't please everybody.

I am already looking for next year, and spreading the word among my Beatle fan friends who have yet to experience AROTR. I'm working on photo editing so I can upload some great shots I took of Hal, AYNIL, Abbey Road Live, SSG, Drew, Savoy Truffle and others. Find me on Facebook and stay tuned!

By the way, Gary, guitar lessons with Dennis were amazing! I hope you can do something like that again next year.

A splendid time was guaranteed for all, and you REALLY delivered!

P.S.....I found $5 in the Galt House....did you lose it????????

Yeah!....made it home safe to Massachusetts....and I am missing everyone already!!! We are quite the family at AROTR!!! Thank you to everyone who I had the pleasure of sharing this special part of my life with....especially my "sisters"....from here, there and everywhere!! YOU ROCK GIRLS!!!!!...and to the many "happy" people I met this past weekend...ROCK ON!!!! Floor #9 was the most rocking floor in the Galt House....and that was because of everyone who took the time to "come together". WE ARE FAMILY!!!!!

I REALLY MISSED "THE BEATRIPS", ALTHOUGH I WAS THRILLED TO SEE "THE JUKEBOX" ONCE AGAIN!!!!

"SSG ROCKS"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Barry and I are looking forward to our next "family reunion" in Washington.

Next stop for us....THE JUKEBOX IN MASSACHUSETTS IN JULY.....YEAH YEAH YEAH YEAH!!!!!!

peace, love & happiness, my friends.....
Stephanie B.

Well, first off: I loved the reserved seating! I would pay extra for it every year. Trust me, I don't have a lot of money but I save every year for my ticket. Even if that means I have less spending money. Maybe reduce the size of it, but PLEASE don't do away with it.
To all the people mad about the seating: I feel like every band made it's rounds to every stage. If you couldn't get up close for the Repeatles at the fountain or lawn stage, go see them at the river OR the archibald!

But anyway, some great bands/ solo acts:
Peter Conrad, The Beatlebury's, The Vinyl Kings, Revolver, Steve Sivemore Group, The Repeatles, BritBeat, Itchycoo Park (HOOTANANNY!), All You Need is Love, Meet the Beetles, The Submorons, and Mario Da Silva!

Thanks for another great year! See you in D.C.

Gary...what an event! I can't understand the grumbling about "VIP" reserved tickets. It was our first time and the VIP tickets were the perfect thing for us. We wanted to stroll around - at will - and see anything at any given time...and then come back if we felt like it. We don't know anyone to "save" a spot for us (which people were doing left and right). And we did NOT want to battle for seats...We just wanted to show up, wherever and whenever we wanted to, and enjoy...and that's just what we did!

In addition, Magic Hat "Wacko" beer is possibly the best domestic beer I have ever tasted.

Let's so this again!!!!

Mark
www.ap60.com

I just want to thank Gary and his AROTR staff for a wonderful event. I wish I could have stayed for Monday but the weekend event was fabulous. Great bands, great time and most of all they rocked our socks off. I enjoyed the two movies 'Let Him Be' and "The Mayor of Strawberry Fields'. I just wish I could have brought my cocker spaniels as they love Beatles music as much as I do. They love 'Hey Bulldog." But again, Instant Karma was fabulous in the portrayal of John Lennon's music. Can't do better than that. Drew Harrison was fantastic as usual. I just wish I could divide myself into 3 so I can catch all the bands.
Thanks again for a great time, see you next year!

Arrived home about an hour ago....hated to leave! Gary, you do a fantastic job at putting the whole festival together. I love it. This was the fifth year attending in Louisville. The bands were great. I especially loved Det Betales (from Norway), the Castillo Kids, and Bruce Spizer's presentations. He is so interesting...please bring him back!! I also loved seeing The Jukebox again...they rock! I buy the five day 'best' ticket each year and it is nice to have an area to sit. Although sometimes because of the heat, we sat in the shade on the bleachers. I don't understand the complaining...except some people want everything for nothing. The food and beer were very good, as always. Please keep up the good work. I know it's a lot to put together, but it is greatly appreciated. Please try and keep this in Louisville. The Galt House is awesome and the staff is always to friendly and accommodating. I just can't believe it's over.....take care and the best of luck in DC.

Another visit to AROTR becomes history and I had a great time. I just thought I would share with you my thoughts, and in the interest of not being too negative, I will say that if my particular experiences were wonderful, I will use words like awesome and outstanding. And if the particular events were not so wonderful I will just use the word amusing.
First of all a thank you to the promoter. I have been to every AROTR since day one and some of my favorite bands I would have not been able to see if not for this event. And a thank you to the weather gods. I was there for three nights and two days beginning 7 pm Thursday night, and I was worried about rain which did not happen, maybe a few drops. (I left before Sunday).
It seems like every year or two that I go I discover a new band that I had previously written off as not being worth my time. A few years back it was the Greek Beats. This year it is the Newbees. Friday night just as Abbey Road Live finished their set, I just happened to think of wandering over to the lawn to see what was happening there. The band that was playing there should have already finished their set but they must have started a little late. I noticed that they had strings and as they continued to play I started to like what I heard. In fact, they had me at ALL THINGS MUST PASS. I made a note to see them again Saturday and I am glad they did because they were AWESOME!
In my Galt House room looking at the TV (which must have been from the 1980s) – amusing. Being able to walk to the 4th Street live food court and have a healthy Subway sandwich – awesome. Having a chicken pita sandwich from one of the AROTR vendors – outstanding. Everything in moderation, right? Having RESERVED AREAS AT THE DIFFERENT BAND LOCATIONS – OUTSTANDING (more on that later). Being close to the bands without earsplitting volume levels – awesome. Having a cocktail at the pool while watching the bands – incredibly awesome. Seeing the Fountain stage placed directly IN FRONT of and blocking the fountain – amusing.
Abbey Road Live was amazing as usual. Loved the Jukebox sets as well and I am glad they added keyboards. BritBeat was good as well. And kudos to Wingsbanned. They apparently almost came without their usual keyboardist but were able to get another one for AROTR. Now that’s what I’m talking about!
Now Friday night for a while I sat on one of the two “bleachers” that were set up in the reserved area of the Fountain stage, which was awesome as I paid extra to get the Single day best tickets for Fri/Sat. It was a very uncongested area which was a big reason I splurged (better yet, used my kid’s college fund) to get those tickets. Okay I really don’t have children but while I was in the same seat watching the Newbees play their first set Saturday afternoon, the event/security folks moved the reserved dividers forward towards the stage in FRONT of the bleachers. Those folks previously behind the dividers with less expensive tickets moved in and of course, filled the bleachers completely, including the ones on the east side that were under shade. I just saw the value of my ticket drop instantly, and the goal of getting the ticket to have some personal space being pointless. That was EXTREMELY amusing. Now I was not at every event on the Lawn stage, but of those that I was present for, they did not do this (move the dividers forward in front of the bleachers).

The wristband Thursday night that tore hair off my wrist – amusing. Not getting charged for an hour late checkout from the Galt House – outstanding. The smell of cigar smoke at the lawn stage – amusing. Not having enough funds to go to Washington over Labor Day to see the Sun Kings and the Backwards – amusing. Being able to still rock at Midnight indoors in the Archibald – awesome. The sound crew/roadies where without them nothing happens – AWESOME. Hearing most of Pepper and MMT Saturday night on the lawn with both strings and horns, TOTALLY AWESOME.

Well thanks for the clarification on the "working class". Sorry it hit a nerve. As long as management is happy that's all that counts I guess. Count me and my family out for next year! Thanks for the insult....much appreciated and remembered. LOL (not)

Hello from the eastern shore of Maryland, just spoke to Ramona and she and I made it back to our homes safe, sound and carrying our Hootanannys around the real world. Sorry for the lack of whatever you feel you missed, it was a Beatle Music weekend and we shared it with our best family members. Though I didn't hear I'm Down (I couldn't be everywhere I wanted to be) Ramona and I one of AROTRs strongest lovers and commentors think this was fantastic. Max shout out to the sound people and the AROTR's staff, you met challanges and dealt with it. To any potental haters DWI---Deal With It. There are good things to be found sometimes we have to look differantly and I give thanks I can. Love to you all and when, Whiplash, SSG, The Yellow SubMorons and the Beat Radicals are jamming across the TV screen we can say we were there. Support Music and each other and to Lady Ya Ya I love you