We always took pride in our singing and harmony. It was always something that would turn heads. With no disrespect and with enduring recognition and admiration for all those who came before, the final version of The Late Entre was, perhaps, overall, the strongest group of singers.
Franny was (and still is) about 4’11” (I think), maybe a little over 5’ when he fluffs his hair. Often obscured from the audience from behind his drums, his voice would fill the room, strong and full in any range, leaving the audience to look around and wonder where he was.
Joe (Merlino) had a casual and disarming style that drove the chicks crazy. His guitar sang in the same way and when we were onstage, his observations and chuckle-producing asides were in the true tradition of Late Entre philosophy.
Nick (on keyboard) was the cement that reined everybody in. He had an excellent ear and usually it was Nick who found the allusive note that gave fullness and
texture to the four part harmony, reminding us how good we could sound when we sang together, as a group, as a team. Nick was the consummate professional in his approach and preparation. I hope this didn’t make him a deviate.
Rich sang like Vic Damon. It wasn’t his fault. He was killer on songs we played at weddings for the bridal dances. He also had the honor of introducing the rest of us when we sang barber shop quartette songs to the happy couple at the head table.
Throughout the Late Entre years, except when we had a front man, I was the ‘voice’ of the band. I’m not sure if this gives me any special distinction, but I enjoyed introducing the songs and the guys, making special announcements when needed, and presenting the band. Its hard to figure how I got the job, but I was happy to say, “You’re listening to the music of The Late Entre!…”
It would be remiss to conclude my remarks about The Late Entre without mention of the Lovely Assunta. Her voice was so pure and honest. She was the only chick ever to sing with The Late Entre, and there were nights when the sound of her voice made the mini-skirts on the dance floor superfluous…