Letters

I had heard his name a great deal over the years with much reverence, but had never actually seen him perform. I was mesmerized. I never missed another Herschel Berry and the Natives gig until Cordray left the band in 1988. Kenny is still out there somewhere playing everything but your grandma's panties, I am sure. I recently heard that he made an appearance at Instant Karma for a benefit with the TKoh! boys. Unfortunately, I missed it, but I am told that he gave another overwhelming guitar performance.

Bill Nelson
Houston

Ain't Dead Yet
The article on Herschel Berry was a quick trip back in time to when the King ruled the flat and otherwise dead music scene. The only rock and roll you could hear in the clubs when the Natives started out were hair bands and/or cover bands. Herschel gave Houston a full course of great music -- an interactive experience for those who were there. There wasn't anything better.

His life, like many other musicians', has been a long, hard struggle. It's nice to hear that he is still around, and still considering his role and responsibility to music.

I hope someone in Houston will have the sense to remaster Herschel's recordings and get them on disc so more people can hear what all the talk is about. I can remember a time in Houston when people stepped up to the plate on someone else's behalf. Herschel is singularly responsible for his own fate, but we all could use a little help from time to time. Give Herschel a Web page (there's bound to be a few takers out there) so people can order a disc or two, and let them decide for themselves. I myself never got the chance to hear Live with It or Mr. Madness. Hopefully, someday I will.

Kip Millwee (old Native)
San Jose, California
via Internet

Sweet 'n' Dead
After seeing his show at Numbers on June 23 [Critic's Choice, June 19], if Matthew Sweet is any indication, rock is dead.

Richard Thompson
Houston