Article Written By Al Eichler, Editor (July 2002 issue - page 14)

Excerpts from: THE AMERICAN HARMONICA NEWSMAGAZINE

"Every great musical artist (virtuoso or soloist) seems to be able to portray the "extra" spark of nuance beyond the ordinary.  I believe this is the thing that Tom Scerbo wants the "world to know" about THE SOCIETY BOYS, when he takes AHN to task for not pointing it out in a spectacular way in covering the BUCKEYE FESTIVAL. We are fortunate, in so many ways that a few harmonica virtuosos enter that top realm of talent and endeavor to thrill us with their skill and interpretation.  Indeed, this is a treasure of work and practice that very few of us achieve...and yes, we do appreciate it, but loathe to sluff it off with a hand clap because it is beyond our individual doing, obviously.  When you look at this trio, the Ace of the chromatic harmonica is Phil Caltabellotta, an artist who can play back flawlessly what he hears.  Not every musician can do this.  I spoke to him touching on this "quirk" of his talent, which gives depth and meaning to his presentations, that have that added-value for entertainment and enjoyment. It is the inflection of nuance and feeling that he puts in the music that sets him apart at the top.  It is the addition of Shelly Lulov on the chord that has brought this trio to center stage.  The improvement in flow and smoothness over the last year was noticed and highly regarded. All of this was not seriously pointed out in the Winslow T. Yerxa reprinting from Harp-L.  Although Winslow did mention that Phil Caltabellotta's speed and precision are a real marvel.  Yerza did confess to missing pretty much of the harmonica group sets in favor of kibitzing among friends and acquaintances.  After the fact, "I was intrigued to hear how Phil's group managed to sound much bigger through clever arranging." I would like to say this about Tom Scerbo - Basso Profundo, that despite his youthful bout with Polio his steady beat with the bass tempo is superb.  Certainly the many knocks on the head have registered, and dignified his performance. Tom has supported AHN nearly ten years, but Tom is like the rest of us, always shuffling somewhere in the background, not trying to steal the show."

"Among all harmonica people are three that are accomplished top-rate musicians, namely Phil Caltabellotta, Shelly Lulov, and Tom Scerbo...don't miss them perform, on stage, on TV, on tape, CD or cassette...a real live act, with verve, sophistication, and PUNCH!!  Nobody at Buckeye would deny THE SOCIETY BOYS OF THEIR PROW NESS AND PRESENCE.  "