REVIEWS OF THE DICKENS:

 

"Hi Andy, I wanted to let you know that The Dickens band was hands down the best choice in music we could have possibly made for our wedding reception. They played the crowd perfectly, the songs they chose were right on point, and everyone (both young and old - and even the wait-staff) had an absolute blast!!! The dancefloor was packed at all times from start to the finish, and I've received compliments on the music from literally everyone I've spoken with since the wedding. Plus, Frank and the other band members were such a pleasure to work with - they really made the whole experience a positive one, and completely stress-free. I have nothing but kudos to offer these guys, and would thrilled to serve as a reference for them should they ever need one - and you can bet that the Keswick Hunt Club has their name down as a fantastic band choice for future events! I've attached several pictures for you and the guys to see how much fun we all had - it was definitely a night to remember!!! Have a very Happy New Year! Melanie Brittingham "

 

"Andy - Dickens were absolutlely amazing - you rock, bud. ...what can I say, you were right on the money - they showed up and completely rocked our reception - great mix of songs, awesome MC job by Percy, and by the end of the night folks were going nuts, dancing everywhere (including my cousin Sarah who danced so much she broke her ankle and had to have surgery - she's ok). Everyone was groovin and having a blast! Dickens were first class - showed up on time, were polite and courteous, and accomodated as much as possible given the time and setting. Couldn't have been better. Again, thank you for everything, it was your insight and advice that led to such a great result, and I appreciate all your responses to my many emails and phone calls. You made me look cool....people were coming up time and time again asking "Where did you find these guys?" - and I dropped Sam Hill and your name at least 10 times. In fact, my best man just got engaged and I've already passed your info on to him, so you may get a call or two in the coming months. Thanks again bud, and if there is anything I can do to further show my support for your efforts (send me your supervisor's name and/or any feedback info you guys have, if possible) please let me know! Cheers, Jon "

 

"Andy, Our reception was absolutely perfect and the Dickens Band exceeded our already heightened expectations after talking with you. These guys were phenomenal. Every song they sang sounded like we had the original artist at our reception and their range of music is amazing. At one point during Otis Redding’s "Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay" I thought I was listening to the DJ before I realized it was live. I was asked by at least 50 people "Where did you find these guys?" They appealed to guests in their 70s, as much as those in their 20s. Initially I thought that the band was a little pricy as far as wedding bands go, but after their performance, I would say without a doubt they were a bargain. Frank and the other band members were completely in sync with the crowd, they allowed my brother in law to lead sing "Baby Got Back" for them, and they were willing modify their song list during the evening to play guest requests. If you want a band to get your guests out of their chairs and onto the dance floor, the Dickens will make it happen. They made our reception. I was most impressed that when the DJ left at 9:00, the Dickens Band played for the final 2 hours without a break. Because of that, more people stayed longer. One of my biggest concerns was that the owner of the reception hall would be difficult to coordinate with. He’s not the most flexible person I’ve met and he has an edge to his personality that makes you want to hit him. Despite this, the band members remained professional and setup without responding to his antagonizing comments. On at least 2 occasions during their performance, Frank asked the audience to give the owner and the staff at the hall a round of applause for hosting the reception. That is professionalism. If the owner got under their skin, they didn’t show it. I could not be more thankful because I believe they swallowed their pride for us. Thank you guys. I also wanted to thank you and Sam Hill for your professionalism. You took all the worry and stress out of our decision and we will pass on your information to anyone we think might someday consider needing a band. We could not be happier with you guys. I also wanted to say thanks to the third party sound guys who accompanied the band. They were personable, friendly, and helpful. Take care and thanks again. Chris Hornung "

 

"Andy Thank you for the congrats! The wedding was an absolute blast and the band blew everyone away. I spent more time fielding questions on where we found them than anything else all evening. I have several friends getting married in the next year and they all want the band, so I'll have to put them in touch with you at some point. I gave out so many Sam Hill cards from the band that it was insane. Thanks for the great recommendation and really making our wedding the party that we wanted it to be. If there is anywhere that I can leave a review or feedback for the band, please let me know because anyone who is thinking of a band with this song catalogue would be blown away by these guys! That being said, theres nothing quite like watching mothers dance to Snoop Dogg and loving it! thanks again Trey and Georgana "

 

"Frank, The party was amazing -- many thanks to you and the band for making the trek up here. I have passed your info along to all of the party-goers. Don't be surprised if a few of them contact you for other events in the future, including me. I know I said this at the end of the party, but it bears repeating: You guys far surpass any of the bands currently playing the bar scene in D.C. My friends and I would love to see you play in Northern Va. and D.C. regularly. Next time you are in the neighborhood, let me know, and I'll spread the word that the Dickens are back in town. I am attaching some photos of the band from the party -- just in case we captured something your photographer didn't. Enjoy! Cheers! Laura Doster "

 

"Andrew, I was planning on writing you anyway to follow up. The band was awesome! Everyone loved them! I can't tell you how many people came up to me and said how unbelievable they were. Seriously. One of my friend's boyfriends insisted on buying me a beer because of them. No joke! I'm sorry you missed it just because they were really great. The dickens got amazing feedback from every single person (and people definitely don't hesitate to point out the bad stuff so that says a whole lot). Thanks again! Margaret Theta Sorority @ UVA "

 

"Dear Frank and Dickens Band, We want to thank you gentlemen for the top-flight performance. It was obvious to us and to all the guests that the Dickens band is synonymous with excellence. Stephanie, Parker, Evelyn, and I expected a wonderful performance and you most certainly exceeded those expectations. Your mixture of the various musical genre with your own special signature touch was loved by everyone. Your kindness of heart and spontaneity were clear to see and we won't forget your classy party spirit. You guys really got that crowd up and on the dance floor. We had many people tell us that you were the best band that they had ever seen at a venue like ours. We couldn't agree more. The crowd kept begging you for "one more song!". Several of the guests told us that they had never been to a reception that no one wanted the band to stop playing. There was a whole lot of love in that place and you guys were amazing. Thank you for that and thank you for doing a great job on the special requests. Thank you again, my friends. You really made us beam with gratitude and pride. We would be happy to recommend your band to any venue. Thank you for your attention to detail and your musical excellence. Sincerely, Hal and Evelyn Matthews, December 2007 "

 

"Hi Frank, Let me start by saying, y'all were ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!! If you only knew how much we (and the guests) loved you... but obviously you don't because we haven't told you. I know my dad has been meaning to email you and I guess he hasnt' yet. FYI - He called me during the honeymoon to read the email you wrote us after the wedding - it meant a lot to my dad (and me!!). We keep saying... on our 1st anniversary we want to have a big party in Ft. Lauderdale and have you play! I doubt our budget will allow for it, but I really hope so!! We just absolutely loved you guys and can't wait to hear you again. Thank you so much for everything - the long trek you made, you dependability, your dynamite rendition of YELLOW, the attention to special requests, the special attention you gave my dad, your amazing talent - EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!! Tell the band hello for me and hopefully, we can track y'all down and see you soon. Thank you so much again for everything. Will talk to you soon! "

 

"Andy, I meant to call you yesterday...but my phone was ringing off the hook!!! The accolades for the band was overwhelming. They did not disappoint, and definitely exceeded the expectations of the Committee, myself included. They were THE BEST band we've heard in about 5 years. The entire event was a huge success (we hadn't had a smooth, successful event in a while LOL), but The Dickens put it over the top. Each set was orchestrated perfectly. They begin with the oldies for the older crowd, then brought it right on up to 2008 for the younger crowd who stayed until the end. They took requests (which scored major points), and they really connected with the audience (I saw Percy out on the floor a few times!). They appealed to every genre, every age group, every race and ethnicity. THEY WERE AMAZING!!! Anytime they have a gig anywhere near Richmond, you better let me know. I have to be there!!! Thanks again, Andy, for your help in making our event a huge success! Tiffany Murillo ALSTOM Power Co. "

 

"Andy, I wanted to let you know that we absolutlely loved the Dickens band! They were the hit of the night and were enjoyed by all ages. People could not stop talking about how much they loved the band! My boss even wanted to have them play at our Christmas party! Unfortuntely our company had already booked the band for this year's party, but I put in a word for them for next year. They have a great sound and can play such a wide variety that we had no doubt they would be love by all. Also, Frank, the manager was great to work with, he was very patient and undestanding with all of our requests. Everyone loved Percy too, as he so personable. Overall, we could not have asked for a better experience. Thank you for all your help and wish our best to The Dickens! "

 

"A great big THANK YOU from the AOL events team for doing such a kick a** job last night. I’ve had countless emails and phone calls this morning from guests gushing about how wonderful the party was. I couldn’t have done it without you! Thanks again and Happy Holidays, Jen Jenny Stahl AOL, LLC. Corporate Events "

 

"Hi, Andy The Dickens were a total blast of a success. Everyone loved them, including the folks at the Birchmere. I've heard nothing but rave reviews about them. I also found them to be very personable and professional. What a group of talented musicians! Judith A. Barbee Gilbert Randolph LLP "

 

"ANDY, JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT THE DICKENS WERE FREAKING AWESOME THIS PAST SATURDAY!! THANKS FOR HOOKING US UP WITH THEM!! SEVERAL PEOPLE COMMENTED THEY WERE THE BEST LIVE BAND THEY HAD EVER HEARD!! THANKS AGAIN!! WILL VANNOY "

 

"Hey Justin, Oh my god...The Dickens were fantastic! They were so much fun and a perfect combination of traditional wedding music and more modern stuff. They did a wonderful job! Everyone kept asking about them and where we found them, don't worry I passed along all of your info. Even my parents and grandparents loved the music. I couldn't have been happier with The Dickens. Thank you so much for all of your help and advice! Melanie "

 

"Hey guys, I can not begin to tell you how GREAT the Dickens band was for our wedding. They were so much fun, the dance floor was absolutely packed all night and every guest seemed to say that they were the best band they have seen. They made an already unforgettable night more fun for Susan and I than we thought possible. The Dickens are incredible musicians and even better guys, hopefully some of our friends can come through and have them play their weddings as they’ve said they would like to. I know we would love to see the band again. Thanks, Chris "

 

"Andy, Everything went great with the Dickens! The guys adapted to what the crowd wanted and everyone thought they were excellent! They moved the sets well towards the "wedding reception thing" to keep everyone dancing. The dance floor stayed busy at all times. Also, those guys were complete gentlemen.... I don't think anyone took me up on having drinks etc. 3 of my friends expressed interest in booking them... Thanks for all your help and I will advise my colleagues on your excellent service. Regards, Greg Hamil "

 

"It was cold and yucky Friday and we only had 1,300 but the band was unbelievable! I think they are the best variety band I have ever booked, ever! They were the nicest guys and tremendous talents. I can honestly say EVERYONE loved them and that is saying something for the eclectic group we get at Cheers. Janet Events Director Lynch's Landing Lynchburg's Leader for Downtown Revitalization Lynchburg VA "

 

"Hi Andy, Just wanted to drop you a note letting you know how fantastic The Dickens were last Saturday night. I can't tell you how many of my wedding guests were raving about them and asking how we found them. Thank you for the recommendation. My reception site was difficult to work with but they handled it with class and put on a fantastic show. I would recommend them to anyone and I won't be surprised if they get a few calls from our guests. My dad, who was skeptical about a band to start with and then concerned about appealing to the older crowd at the wedding, was certainly silenced. The dance floor was packed all night long! We would both be happy to serve as references. Thanks again, Sarah Trotta "

 

"Andy, Thanks so much for the follow up. The Dickens band was amazing! Everyone had such a great time. They were definitely the most talented band we have had out here. I think they had a good time as well. Thanks so much for all you all did. Take care, Mandy Whitley, facility coordinator at Butterfly Gap "

"Andrew, I meant to give you my personal feedback regarding the Dickens Band's performance at UVA on August 23rd. Not only was their music fantastic, but the band members were extremely pleasant to work with (what great personalities!) Considering the heat and the timidness of the new students, they did a great job keeping them involved. Please make sure they are highly recommended to future customers! Thanks for all your help, Malarie UVA "

 

"Thanks for you playing at Alpha Xi Delta formal. I had a blast and couldnt stop dancin. Cant wait to watch u all play again. You really made the formal and we wouldn't have had as much fun if you didn't play!! You guys are great!! Ericka Lynn "

 

"Hey Hank! I meant to call you yesterday but time got away from me. Things were stellar on Saturday. Everyone was on time, pleasant to work with, and super professional. The Dickens went over well - They are so great to work with as well - they called me at every rest stop on the way up to update me I think... Give me a call on my cell today if you'd like :) If I don't talk to you - have a happy holiday and talk to you in 07! Thanks, B Brandee Martin America Online Brand Promotions and Events "

 

"We had the best reaction from everyone concerning the Dickens for our college event. Everyone said this was the best band in recent years and they were awesome. We really appreciate your concern and take care! Thanks again! Whitney "

 

"Hi Andy, The Dickens were Great!!! They are such a fun group and they did a great job.I hope they had a good time too! Will you ask them to keep me informed if they come to the Wilmington or surrounding area would love to see them again. Thanks so much Cynthia Moxley-Finch "

 

"I just want to let you know that the Dickens band ROCKED the house on Saturday night. Our friends cannot stop talking about them. I would certainly recommend them to anyone that asks. Our wedding is going to be featured in a couple magazines. I plan to mention the band. The publications are 'Chapel Hill Magazine' and 'Southern Bride and Groom' magazine."

via email (5/23/06)

 

"YOU GUYS ROCK !!"

"Thanks for you playing at Alpha Xi Delta formal. I had a blast and couldnt stop dancin. Cant wait to watch uall play again"

via email

 

"Y'all are awesome! Y'all played at Gretchen & Matt's party in Raleigh last Saturday night. I had so much fun. Y'all need a CD soon! Love ya!"

via email (5/25/06)

  

"Thank you guys for playing at the Alpha Xi Delta formal!! You really made the formal and we wouldn't have had as much fun if you didn't play!! You guys are great!!"

via email

 

"Thanks so much for everything Saturday! We had a blast and hope you did too!"

via email

 

"It was my first time at the Boat Doc and you guys put on an AWESOME

SHOW! See you at the next gig."

via email

 

Hey Guys-

"I wanted to let you know I had an awesome time at the blue gator

gig...apparently you guys just keep getting better and better! Ain't no

stoppin you now... I just went to your

website to check out gig dates and your new group pic is HOT! I love

the look of it! I hope to see you guys soon!"

via email

 

"First time seeing the band. Awesome show! Great setlist! Great band! ...Look forward to you guys playing here again."

via email

 

"wow, crazy show lastnight! anyone who was there knows what im talking

about....and if you werent there.....sorry you missed it. haha POOCHY

WALLY everywhere.....by far one of the best shows yet!!"

via email

 

"--- keep putting on shows like yall have been doing and there will be

lots of people out there. its fun being able to watch something just

get started and its gonna be crazy watching something this good get

better!! ...

via email

 

"another great show sat. at greene st. man, the lighting, the sound, the

energy....awesome. american idiot.....money! see yall at the next one"

via email

 

"Guys! I just got back from hearing you play at Wild Mags- and once

again you blew me away! The crowd was diggin everything you played

and the encore was hot! I was lovin the energy and of course

the "sexual healing" too :-)"

via email

 

"I was told about the band by one of your fans and I had the chance to

see you on Friday night and was very impressed. I will be opening up

a nightclub in December and look forward to bringing the band in.

The main stage area is unlike any other and the main floor will hold

two thousand, hope you're ready?"

via email

 

"... I take alot of band shots locally, so I hear

alot of different bands. If you want to have a great time listen to

some awesome muscians, and dance alittle, then you've got to check

these guys out..."

via email