Everyone has an opinion, but I want to ask this question.
Has anyone heard Calvin play with Fred yet?
Just wondering. I've liked Marvin since I heard him play with Tim Bowman. I've liked Calvin since I saw him play live with John Kee in Houston in 97 or 98. Two different styles. Both killin' in their respective niches.
Marvin has helped Fred form his signature style, so he will be missed. But trust me. . .the music and style are not suffering now that Calvin is playing with Fred. I saw Fred at Fountain of Praise in 2004 and Calvin was playing with him. I still felt Fred. Calvin's hands are faster than Marvin's but the level of music didn't jump up a notch just because Calvin was there. Nor did the music feel 'lost' because Marvin wasn't playing anymore.
Two great guys. . . but I think I would take Marvin (with Fred) just because it seems like his face BELONGS with RFC.
My 2 cents.