The Travis Band.
This page is a dedication and
tribute to a very magical time…
As I reflect on the past thirty
years, I have been blessed with family, friends and career. I
have experienced successes, and failures… I have raised a
family, celebrated marriages, births and sadly said goodbye to good
friends.
Music has been a constant in my life and I have had the great fortune to play with many great players throughout my years . Through the highs and lows, one time always remains in the forefront, not only for me, but for all of whom shared this time as a part of their lives. An era many refer to as The Travis Days.…
Travis started as a trio, founded
by David Thompson, John Stevenson and Robin Miller. This was
during the mid 70’s when Dan Fogelberg, Jackson Browne, and
James Taylor were getting major airplay. Country rock was
put on the map by the Eagles. It was a great musical time, with
focus on strong melodies, tight harmonies and great lyrics.
Truly an analog time. Long before cel phones, the Internet, Protools and mp3s'. The album was recorded on a Teac 4 Track. so its as 'live' as it gets.
The album was recorded at Audio Graphics Services, Royal Oak Michigan: www.audiographicservices.com
Travis started playing a small
circuit of listening clubs in Michigan. Clubs like the The Inn
Between, The Wagon Wheel Saloon, Lizards in East Lansing
and The Eastown Saloon in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Travis mesmerized its audiences with strong originals and
incredible harmonies. Travis developed a huge following and
long lines to see the band were the norm. This circuit of
listening clubs fostered great talents, like The Dan Schafer Group,
Judy Roberts, Shar, Feather Canyon, Orange Lake Drive and
the Tom Powers group.
www.judyroberts.com
www.danschafer.com
www.tompowersmusic.com
Travis finished an album of
originals in 1975, which were sold mostly through clubs. Travis
then hired longtime friend and incredible talent, Michael Irish.
Mike was a bluegrass virtuoso, playing pretty much any string
instrument he put his hands on. I was then added to play
drums. Radio stations and concert promoters took notice and The
Inn Between, became a regular post show spot for touring acts,
playing Pine Knob Music Theater. We were graced with the
presence of the likes of James Taylor, Carol King and
Kenny Logins. Travis was as good as any. As with any
group of talent, a life cycle evolves, peaks and eventually moves in
different directions.
For me, this was mostly a
time of great music, great friends and great memories. I have lost
touch with most; however still reflect on those magical times.
I still own and play the same snare drum that I used in the band… it is now
considered Vintage??
I recently made contact with Robin Miller
after some 30 years…
It seems like only yesterday and a lifetime ago at the very same time. Sadly I learned of the
loss of one of the founding members David Thompson to cancer.
Dave will remain in our hearts forever. I have not crossed
paths with John Stevenson in many years, but I am sure it will
happen… I think he still owes me a shot of whiskey and a few lies. I
understand Mike has carved out a great musical career in Northern
Michigan and frequents
my part of the globe in Florida. He is an amazing talent, and I
am sure to see him soon.
So my hope is that any who were
part of this magical time, will find this page and it will serve to
rekindle friendships and memories of The Travis Days!
Sincerely,
Scott Thompson
scott.a.thompson@gmail.com
www.myspace.com/scott9449
or visit me Here.
Me sitting in @ The Bone, Dallas Texas
Jill Killian Band / Opening act for Lee Greenwood - May, 2003, with myself and Gerry Christie formerly Feather Canyon on Bass
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