T-$ and the Change return to rock the 'Sco '80s style

You thought they graduated. You cried at the thought of their break-up. But just when you thought that you'd never see the likes of the hunky '80s cover band at Oberlin again, T-$ and the Change are returning to their stomping grounds for a commencement/reunion rock spectacular at the 'Sco this Saturday.

For those of you who have never been treated to a T$ and the Change show and are skeptical about how exciting a cover band could possibly be, let your fears be put to rest. Their number one ambition is to entertain, and the high level of energy put into their performance is worthy of an '80s arena show. These boys are unabashed rock stars, and they are definitely not shy about working the stage and the crowd.

They are known for going all out to put on a good show. Examples of past performance highlights include a 20 person ensemble doing "We are the World," and T-$ himself being carried in a coffin by six trumpet players for Michael Jackson's "Thriller." When asked what surprises we could expect for this show, T-$ insisted on secrecy.

Antics aside, their musical prowess makes them a legitimately talented group. They cover the hits to near perfection, truly recreating the sounds we know so well, note by note. Their repertoire runs the gamut of the treasure trove of music that we call '80s, and they've been known to cover everything from Journey to the Cars to Toto to Guns n' Roses.

The band is led by T-$ himself, Tim Ruedeman (OC'97), who sings lead vocals. Other members include Matt "Wad" Stinchcomb (OC'97) on rhythm guitar, Zack "Wylde" Layton (OC '99) on guitar, Jamie "JJ" French (OC '97) bass guitar, Rick Studio (OC '97) on keyboard, and David Just (OC '96) on drums. In addition, guest artists are usually incorporated into the show to fill in any missing instruments for particular songs.

The band played their last show over one year ago last spring before the majority of the members graduated as a part of a reunion tour. They parted ways after leaving Oberlin to pursue their individual dreams. But the legend still lingers and the dream is still alive. All of the members have kept relations strong during the past year, and this reunion concert has been in the making for months.

All of the members aside from Layton have been living in New York City. Ruedeman is currently in the NYU Masters program playing saxophone. Others have recently quit their jobs to become rock stars. T-$ and the Change has already had two gigs in New York, where Eoin Russell (OC'97) filled in for Layton. They also just cut a demo CD and are shooting for more gigs in the City.

The band was formed back in 1994 over pizza at Lorenzo's, where a group of friends decided that an 80s cover band would be a really hot idea. Since that time, there have been twelve different members of the band, and' 80s music has really experienced a full scale resurgence. "'80s music is at the top of a wave right now," said Ruedeman. "In a couple of years it's going to play itself out."

But constant play on the radio and a new pack of '80s oriented flicks testify to the current popularity of the 80s. "I was angry when The Wedding Singer came out," said Ruedeman, "Adam Sandler stole my gig. I should sue him." Ruedeman has long been an 80s diehard, even going so far as to sport the same haircut since that time.

After some initial apprehension of returning to Oberlin as alumni, all the members are now back in the swing of things and have been doing some hard core rehearsing and partying in preparation for tomorrow's concert. However famous they become, playing Oberlin will always hold a special place for them. Ruedeman commented on the happiness of a home crowd. "The best part about playing at Oberlin is that you're playing for your friends and its a different kind of energy, you know you're going to be well received."

Don't miss this one. T-$ and the Change rock the 'Sco this Saturday at 10 p.m. Admission is free. It'll be money and then some.