KING DAVID RULES

In his review of the David Lee Roth concert, Richard Cromelin put so much effort into showing off his gift of sarcasm that one could hardly tell if he enjoyed the show (“Rock Romp With ‘King Leer’ Roth,” Dec. 22).

When Roth says that it’s great to be in fill in name of city he is simply thanking fill in name of city for its support, as well he should. What is genuine in Roth’s delivery is the joy he exudes from the first minute he appears on stage.

Roth co-wrote every non-instrumental Van Halen composition and has as much right to perform them as the re-vamped Van Halen. Many of us never saw the original Van Halen and this is as close as we’ll come.

I, for one, would rather hear Roth sing “Jump” with any back-up band than hear Sammy Hagar attempt it with 100 Eddie Van Halens.

Regarding the length of time alotted to Steve Vai and Billy Sheehan’s instrumental duels, they were both so charismatic and inventive that I, who am usually bored by long guitar solos, was enthralled.

Roth delivered a hard-rock show to a hard-rock audience, but he did it with a healthy sense of fun, in welcome contrast to the clenched fists and sneers of many of today’s heavy-metal bands. While maintaining an unbelievably high energy level he treated us to his unique style, showmanship, humor, heart and undeniable sex appeal. I remain elated.

JOAN MANNERS

Encino