Dave’s for Real

While Janiss Garza’s review of David Lee Roth’s Forum concert was basically positive, she was a bit unfair in a few areas (Pop Music Review, June 13).

First, she implied that Roth’s concerts have suffered poor attendance in other parts of the country. Actually, his concerts have been listed in Billboard’s “Boxscore” column (top concert grosses) nearly every week for the past several months.

Garza gave Roth no credit for the musical diversity he presented, from the hard-driving heat of “Bottom Line” to the bouncy camp of “Just a Gigolo,” to the unexpected and wonderful steel-drum set exhibiting African melodies and rhythms.

And while I agree that guitarist Steve Vai is indeed charismatic, Roth is in no danger of being overshadowed by him or anyone else. Roth’s appeal lies not in the props Garza spoke of, but in the genuine sense of joy he exudes as he celebrates music and life with a delighted audience.

JOAN MANNERS

Encino