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Band reunites for Halloween show

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By Eric Robinette, Staff Writer 10:46 PM Thursday, October 29, 2009

For the Halloween party at the Big Shots bar on Saturday, Oct. 31, one man won’t have to wear a costume to play more than one role.

That’s because John Burgher of Middletown plays drums in both bands playing there that night: the Exploding Toads and 3 of a Kind.

The Exploding Toads have been playing for a number of years, but this is the first time in four years that 3 of a Kind has played together.

The group had started developing a following, but after awhile, “We just had different things going on, and we just kind of quit playing. There was no falling out, we just took a break,” he said.

3 of a Kind started playing in 2001 with guitarist Jeff Stephens, bass player Mike Schul and Burgher having played since junior high school. After their hiatus, “We had talked about getting back together many times. Then one day we met at Broad Street Studios for a practice. Right out of the box, we were firing on all cylinders. Like we had never quit,” Burgher said.

While 3 of a Kind runs the rock gamut from AC/DC to ZZ Top, the Exploding Toads are more diverse.

“The Toads have more variety, playing blues, classic rock and country. The other band is rock. The only similarity is me and the drum set,” Burgher said.

The Halloween party also includes prizes and a costume contest. There is no cover charge.

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2836 or erobinette@coxohio.com.

How to go

What: Halloween party with The Exploding Toads and 3 of a Kind

When: 8 p.m. Saturday

Where: Big Shots, 1701 Germantown Road, Middletown

Cost: No cover.

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I am amazed. I seen the Bands at Big Shots, and Boy was I wrong. The Guys were on the mark. Both bands were Great! Salute to "3 of a Kind" & "The Exploding Toads" and Rob Hoffman sang Rock & Roll with The Toads at the end of the night! Really Awesome, indeed

Denny Mc
1:42 AM, 11/1/2009

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I've heard both these bands play and loved them everytime I've heard them play. Can't wait to watch them both play tonight! Garage bands they are NOT! Best local music Middletown has had for a long time. Hope to see everyone at Big Shots tonight!!!

Supporting Local Music
3:16 PM, 10/31/2009

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Listening to The Exploding Toads since the band joined years ago I have experienced enlightenment listening to them play! They are an awesome band and enjoyable! I think everyone should go to Big Shots for Halloween! These two bands know how to put on a show!

Whomever Denny is I think you get a life of your own because you ruined yours doesn't meanyou need to ruin anyone else's!

vampire
1:39 PM, 10/31/2009

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Alot of comments. Man, This is Halloween. People already putting on costumes and pretending to be someone else. I mean it is Halloween? All I Know is that Both bands are Booking Gigs and playing outside the garage. "WE" are Ready to put it down. Alot of People have already rsvp'd and Big Shots Will be Packed for a "PARTY" tonight. The Jager Girls are going to be there. People coming dressed up will have 5 Chances to win a Jager Fridge. Plus Cash Prizes for top 2 costumes. 2 Bands. See you there

John Burgher
12:05 PM, 10/31/2009

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sounds like, betwwen, these two bands, you'll get what ya need!!

kerry k.
11:59 AM, 10/31/2009

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