Joel's Graduation
Joel Savell, Bass player and vocalist for Superior Olive
Getting ready for Joel's graduation was no small feat. He worked day and night preparing his senior art show, which ran from June 2 - 9, 2000. Since there was limited space, he had to painstakingly measure the panels on the walls and measure all his art work to be able to plan which pieces to show and where each would be located. Almost every piece of work was framed. Some frames were hand-made by Joel himself and others were pre-made oak frames from Costco. Several pieces were professionally framed at framing stores, including the very large "Teahupo'o" which measures about 7 feet by 3 ½ feet. It's a beautiful painting of a wave curling over, frothing whitewash, and golden glistening sunlight reflecting off the wave in pure gold paint.

On Thursday June 8, he had a reception for his art show. It was quite an affair. Joel dressed in a Tuxedo. There was plenty of food and drink. We got a tank of helium and filled up a bunch of balloons. There were balloons everywhere. Some would hit the lights and -- Pop!

Of course, Superior Olive was the guest band. Joel sang lead vocals on all the songs. Superior Olive had never played many of the songs before, such as "Badfish" and "Santeria" by Sublime and the classics, "On Broadway" and "Save the Last Dance For Me" by the Drifters. They even played "Astro Zombies" by the Misfits. The crowd loved it. There were two drummers for the night. Most of the songs were performed with Bryan Lanser on drums, and the heavier songs like "Sad But True" by Metallica were with Nat Carsten.

Although we wish that all of you could have been with us, we know you were there in spirit. A compact disc of the performance is available for a limited time. This exclusive 65-minute recording includes 15 songs performed live with Joel singing lead on every song. Contact us to get your copy.

Since Joel was dressed in black tie attire, of course we served champagne (and beer for the masculine guests). Right before the last song of the night (Save the Last Dance for Me), a man entered the room and asked to speak with Joel for a moment. We asked if he could wait 3 minutes until the last song was over, and he agreed. After we finished the last dance, Joel went to speak with him. After Joel returned, he said that the guy was acting on behalf of the university and asked us to stop serving alcohol. Busted! But, the entire evening was orderly with no embarrassing incidents.