As previously reported, TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA guitarist Chris Caffery (SAVATAGE) is keeping a tour diary for the duration of the east coast company's North American tour. He has issued the following update:

"OK...

I know, I know...not catching up!

BUT! Detroit was the highest line # total at 359.

Show was great. I can totally screw myself up by doing today and then trying to go backwards! I actually slept on the bus 'til 11AM this morning. I got off to go into the hotel for some business stuff and a shower. The frickin' fire alarm was being tested for like an hour. The high speed sucked because of this. We had to leave early for the venue for some special rehearsals. I know you have seen some guests showing up and it is not the end! So...we got to the venue at 3. I had an interview with Alex for the "Chop Shop" with our good friend Steve Black. This lasted about 30 mins. Then it was off to Bob's room where we rehearsed 'til about 4:50PM. I finally got to eat something and then it was soundcheck at 5. Paul was there and we had to go over some stuff extensively so this lasted 'til 6:35.

I had enough time to get changed and have a soda and check some business mail and I was already being called in for the show.

This was the first time The Palace was totally sold out. It was really amazing. 14,000 people. The crowd had a lot of newcomers. I must admit it was a bit rowdier last year. But this show was incredible. The arena even added extra special effects to the show as it's LED banner wrapping around the arena flashed fire during 'Requiem' and 'Wish Lizst'!!!!

Paul came up to join us once again in the '12-24 Reprise'. The band was having a great show, although we all seemed a bit tired from the extended day. It felt like a matinee day and we just had the one show!

Kid Rock was in Cali, I heard some of his band was there. I missed seeing him. I did mention onstage about it being the 2 yr anniversary of Dimebag's murder. It was fitting as Steve Black spoke of the loss of his wife. I also mentioned DDP. It was an emotional moment as it would be expected to be!

The signing line was the longest yet. Very nice people...just frickin' long! I think we got out of there at 12:45AM!

Thanks to Ben from GHS Strings who was in the house. They have been so supportive this past year! Tomorrow I will see my web-designer Marc and the ETW gang. I will also see John and Randall Amps!

Time to sleep...long weekend ahead! "

Goodnight....

C

To view all TSO 2006 tour dates - east and west coast touring companies - go to this location. Links for ticket purchases can be found at the same location.