October is a busy month of concerts for me.  In addition to the Stu Phillips tribute with the Golden State Pops, I’m returning to the stage with the Boingo boys for our fourth and final Johnny “Vatos” Tribute to Halloween and Oingo Boingo!

If you missed our shows in 2005, 2006 or 2007, then this is your last chance to see these songs performed live by this band.  Anyone who caught one of our previous shows knows how completely bad-ass insane this show promises to be.  We slammed through Boingo hits like “Dead Man’s Party,” “Only a Lad,” “Out of Control” and “On the Outside” for the casual fan, and played the rarer oddities such as “Forbidden Zone,” “I’m Afraid,” “Vultures,” “Take Your Medicine” and “Nature Zone” for the hardcore out there!

This year, we’re expanding the set list even more.  “Just Another Day,” “No Spill Blood” and “Nothing to Fear” are just a few of the new songs I’m arranging for the band.  And there are a few surprise additions as well.  (And while I’m faithful to their original versions, many of these tunes go through some McCreary-ization for an extra kick in the pants.)

The band line-up includes a substantial percentage of the BSG Orchestra.  Returning Boingo alums include Johnny “Vatos” Hernandez, Steve Bartek, John Avila, Sam Phipps and Doug Lacy.  Lead vocals and front-man insanity are provided by Brendan McCreary.  I’m conducting, playing keyboards and singing background vocals.  Also on stage are vocalists Raya Yarbrough, Felice Hernandez and guitarist Carlos De La Paz, as well as a horn section.

Tickets are on sale now!

KROQ Roq of the 80’s Presents
JOHNNY VATOS: TRIBUTE TO HALLOWEEN
Featuring the music of Oingo Boingo
Performed by former band members
Thursday, October 29th at 8:00 PM
The Grove of Anaheim
Doors Open at 7:00 PM

Here are some highlights from years past:

More Highlights from 2006

More Highlights from 2007

It’s been a great few years of Halloween shows, and we’re going out with a bang.  I hope to see you guys there!

No One Lives Forever,

-Bear