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Pop: hot ticket
By Times staff
© St. Petersburg Times
published May 30, 2002
Back in bloom
Five years after disbanding, the Gin Blossoms are together again, only a few dates into a reunion tour.
The group got its start in 1987 in Tempe, Ariz., founded by guitarist and songwriter Doug Hopkins and bassist Bill Leen. The group made pop with a twang that came to be known as the "Tempe sound."
After some success on the college charts, the group released New Miserable Experience in 1992. Shortly after that, Hopkins, who later committed suicide, was fired and replaced by Scott Johnson, above. Hey Jealousy, from New Miserable Experience, became a hit single in 1993 and was all over MTV. It's still a radio staple.
After one more CD, Congratulations I'm Sorry, and its supporting tour, the group disbanded.
Joining this reunion tour are band members Robin Wilson (vocals) and Jesse Valenzuela (guitar and vocals), both of whom joined the Gin Blossoms early in its formation. Gary Smith replaces drummer Phillip Rhodes.
The show is at 8:30 p.m. Friday at Jannus Landing, on Second Street between Central Avenue and First Avenue N, St. Petersburg. $22.50 advance, $25 day of show. (727) 896-2276.
Chicago: A hard habit to break
Chicago can still pack the house, even on its 35th anniversary Feelin' Stronger Every Day tour. The horn-laden group remains one of the most successful American bands of all times, with a repertoire that includes dozens of hits: 25 or 6 to 4, Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?, Saturday in the Park, You're the Inspiration, Hard Habit to Break, and on and on. The group's show at 8 p.m. Friday at Ruth Eckerd Hall is sold out. Tickets are still available for the tour's next stop at 8 p.m. Tuesday at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Tickets are $50-$60. Call (941) 953-3368.
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