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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.